Course Description:  The Habitat Information Tracking System (HabITS) tracks habitat improvement accomplishments and program-specific technical assistance workloads associated with the Partners for Fish and Wildlife and Coastal Programs.  HabITS captures detailed information related to habitat improvement, strategic planning, partnership agreements, financials, habitat accomplishments, species, documentation, and monitoring activities.  Participants work with HabITS to learn how to enter annual project information into the system and to effectively use associated GIS and reports components at all levels (Field Office, Regional Office, and National).  Topics include data standards, data entry, project record maintenance, and GIS integration.

Course Objectives:  Successfully input habitat improvement and technical assistance data into the Habitat Information Tracking System (HabITS); Ensure the quality and accuracy of annual data; Gain familiarity and ensure compliance with the Privacy Act and other regulations; Learn to use the GIS capabilities of HabITS and the National Focus Area Support System; Upload and download supporting documentation, images, and other materials; Generate comprehensive reports based on data entry at all levels (Field Office, Regional Office, and National); Effectively use the HabITS systems to support outreach and collaborative efforts with partners.

Target Audience: Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program and Coastal Program field and regional staff.  Prior experience with Internet Explorer web browser is recommended.

Class Dates:  3 days

Optimal Class Size:  20

Software Requirements: Internet Explorer, Microsoft Excel, and an Internet connection.

Primary Contact:
Name:   LEOPOLDO MIRANDA
Email:   leopoldo_miranda@fws.gov
Phone:  703-358-2448

Secondary Contact:
Name:   DAN HOGAN
Email:   dan_hogan@fws.gov
Phone:  970-226-9342