The purpose of this green map is to report on the natural resource characteristics and environmental features of Atlantic Highlands. It covers dozens of sites in town under three main categories: sustainability, nature, and culture and society. It can serve as a guide for residents seeking green sites, features and services, while also enabling the identification of gaps and shortfalls in what exists. Ideally, the map would be used as a tool for planning and decision making in the community, including initiatives for resource protection.
The map was started as an Eagle Scout project. However, the intention has always been that the green map will be an ongoing project with community members welcome to add additional information and sites to the map. The Environmental Commission is responsible for managing the map updates.
The Green Map is open source software utilizing Google Maps to display sites within the scope of the map. The sites can be explored by clicking on any icon on the map. A list of the current icons used (and additional icons available for use) is given below).
There are two ways to access the Green Map and its sites:
- You can go to the Open Green Map site, where you can select the category and topic you want to explore. Then click on individual icons to see a map layer containing the icons for that topic. Or:
- Utilize the map shown at the bottom of this page, where you can explore by geographic area.
To explore the green sites, click on any icon on the map and see the name of the site. Clicking on the site name opens a box that gives the site name and address, a photo or video if available, the name of the submitter, and rating stars. To see additional explanatory text that is available for many sites, click the site name or the plus sign (+) in the upper right corner; to expand for more details. To close the window and continue exploring, click on the “X” in the upper right corner.
Using the legend on the right side of the screen, you can select or deselect icons based on your current interest.
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To expand the legend, just click on one of the main topics (Sustainable Living, Nature, or Culture and Society).
You will then be shown a number of sub-topics with underlying icons. You may move your mouse over the icons to see a brief description of what each icon represents. -
To contract the legend, just click on the main topic or sub-topic.
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Use the check boxes to select or deselect the information you are interested in.
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To select just specific icons, select the subtopic so the icons are displayed.
Then click the check box, so all the icons are faded.
Then click on the icon(s) you are interested in.
To add information to the map, you may comment on sites that are already shown on the map. The comments will be reviewed by the Environmental Commission before the comment is displayed to the public. You may also click on the SUGGEST A SITE tab at the top of the map. If you register and login first , your username will appear on each site you have suggested, and you will receive an email when your suggestion is added to the map. Explore the map to make sure your suggestion fits its theme and area. Add local green living sites, nature, social innovation and cultural resources that will help the community make progress toward sustainability.
The following categories can be noted on this map. However, only the ones used are in black. The ones in grey can be used, but there are not current sites listed.
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Sustainable Living
Green Economy
Farmers/Local Market
Technology & Design
Solar Energy Site
Mobility
Bicycle Site
Hazards & Challenges
Blight Site
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Nature
Land & Water
Waterfront / Riverside Park
Flora
Public Forest / Natural Area
Fauna
Significant Habitat
Outdoor Activity
Park / Recreation Area
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Culture & Society
Cultural Character
Cultural Site
Eco-Information
Eco Information
Justice & Activism
Eco-Justice Organization
Public Works & Landmarks
Waste Water Treatment Plant
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