4. Submitting Atlas Data

4. Submitting Atlas Data

See Appendix N for how to submit data online. Again, we recommend using the NatureCounts app (Appendix E) to enter your data while you are in the field because it will save you time at home, and prompt you for important information while you have the opportunity to investigate further in the field. For those not using the NatureCounts app, the Atlas website allows you to enter and submit your general atlassing, point count, and rare species data all in one place; tell us exactly where you have atlassed; receive warnings for unusual or invalid species-breeding code combinations or unusually high counts; and receive prompts for rare/colonial observations that require more information.

We highly recommend that you review the data you collect at the end of each atlassing visit and submit the data soon thereafter. This practice helps to reduce errors and omissions since the details will still be fresh in your mind; it also allows the Atlas Office to regularly update maps and square summary sheets throughout the breeding season to better track progress, avoid duplication of effort, and direct effort as needed.

The annual deadline for data submission is August 31st; all data submitted will be peer-reviewed by experts and you could be asked for more details. See Appendix O for data and map ownership information.

If you are unable to enter your data online or are having difficulties doing so, please ask a fellow atlasser, your Regional Coordinator, or the Atlas Office to help you with this.