Stewardship Mapping and Assessment Program (STEW-MAP)
Developed by: USDA Forest Service
Launched in 2007; Updated in 2019
Why Use the Tool
STEW-MAP (Stewardship Mapping and Assessment Program) surveys civic stewardship groups to enhance the social and ecological resilience of a community. STEW-MAP enhances understanding of the network of civic environmental groups that affect urban forestry. It also provides interactive maps and datasets for public use in order to leverage the work of civic organizations and foster connections between them.
Recommended Tool
Erika Svendsen, USDA Forest Service Research Social Scientist: esvendsen@fs.fed.us
Lindsay K. Campbell, USDA Forest Service Research Social Scientist: lindsaycampbell@fs.fed.us
Input Data Required
Requires collection of quantitative data, as well as GIS/mapping information
Outputs
Extensive qualitative data (via social network analysis), public maps and databases on civic stewardship organizations
Past Use Cases
Multiple case studies, including in New York City; Valledupar, Colombia; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Baltimore; Chicago. Read more here.
Case Study
Understanding the Environmental Stewardship Network in New York
In 2017, the USDA Forest Service decided to create an updated STEW-MAP for New York City’s five boroughs and larger metropolitan area. The USDA Forest Service’s emphasizes shared stewardship of the environment, and STEW-MAP helps the Forest Service understand the strength of local networks.
The STEW-MAP highlighted that environmental stewardship is thriving and diverse in New York City. The survey found over 800 stewardship groups, defined broadly as those conserving, managing, monitoring, advocating for, or educating others about local environments. These 800 groups represent 540,000 members and staff, maintain a total budget of $800 million, and manage 205,000 acres of land in New York City. The stewardship groups highlight the growing grassroots movement around improving habitat and water quality through a large network of volunteers. In turn, these groups interact with each other, with government agencies, and private sector groups, creating a resilient network in times of crisis.
The STEW-MAP highlighted pathways to continue strengthening the environmental stewardship network in New York City. For example, the survey measured communication methods, showing that groups communicate with their members primarily through word of mouth and social media. In addition, the survey found that most groups monitor their local environment, which could be useful information for the city to know and track as well.
In New York City, the USDA Forest Service conducted STEW-MAP in partnership with the NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. The data—collected over the course of a year—is now publicly available through a longer case study report and geo-referenced map.
Map of New York City Stewardship Network
Source: STEW-MAP
Additional Guidance: