,

Protecting the Arctic

View the map

Why we love it

Mapping categorical data can be tricky. With 12 overlapping conservation zones in the Arctic, the map, Pinpointing Vulnerabilities: Protecting Regions of the Arctic, posed a serious design challenge. We love the use of a matrix legend to identify important marine areas. We also love how the map author combined color and a hash pattern to define conservation regions and priorities. As a bonus, the map uses a polar projection to show the Arctic as a shared resource surrounded by many countries rather than an isolated place at the tip of the globe. 

Why it works

The Pinpointing Vulnerabilities map works because it exhibits professionally executed cartography. Note the subdued colors and clear presentation of overlapping categories. The author displays an effective and economical use of curved labels—an especially difficult feat on a map that has no single direction pointing upward. Although a story about protecting the Arctic can be complex, the map uses supporting text to unpack the elements of who, what, and where. The fact that this map was created by university students makes it all the more impressive.

Important steps

  • Utilize the tools

    This data-heavy project used more than two dozen sources of data layers to import and combine.
    Get sources

  • Present an undistorted view

    Choose the right map projection to present an undistorted view of sizes and proximity of this poorly understood region.
    Information on coordinate systems & more

  • Differentiate zones

    Use a categorical color scheme, aka unique values, to make sure different areas are distinguishable yet not ranked which would imply relative importance.
    Learn more about unique values

  • Create stunning visuals

    Use Esri’s new multidirectional hillshading for subtle and attractive bathymetry to ensure equal illumination regardless of longitude.
    Learn about multidirectional hillshading
previous
Next

Requirements

  • Data & Software

    Bathymetry: Sandwell et al. UC; Arctic Council, BOEM, CBD, Climate Works; Esri; Fisheries and Oceans Canada; IUCN; MPAtlas, NASA, National Geographic Society, National Snow & Ice Data Center, Natural Earth, NOAA, NRDC, USGS, WDPA. Software used: ArcGIS Desktop.

  • Analysis

    With many overlapping criteria for Important Marine Areas, a multiplicative color matrix showed how a location might contain one or more criteria based on modeling of multiple inclusion criteria.

  • Time

    200 hours for all aspects of the map including research, data compilation, analysis, and cartography.
previous
Next

Tips and tricks

  • Rotate labels

    Reading labels upside down isn’t easy. Notice how well the labels rotate around the center of the map.
    Add text to map

  • Mute background color

    Use a muted terrain basemap so that conservation areas can be the focus of the map.
    Neutral base

  • Read along the latitude

    Professionals often curve area labels with lines of latitude to harmonize map elements.
    Instructions for label orientation
previous
Next

Resources

previous
Next

Map Authors

Gabriel Rousseau and Kyle Lempinen

Gabriel Rousseau graduated in 2017 from Portland State and is currently a cartographer for the Oregon Bureau of Land Management. Kyle Lempinen graduated from Portland State in 2016. A proud Oregonian for over 10 years, Kyle is a GIS designer.

Related maps

If you liked this map, check out these other Maps We Love that explore similar topics.

previous
Next

Learn more about making maps in ArcGIS Online

Learn more