LANDFIRE-Vegetation Product Descriptions

The Existing Vegetation Type (EVT) layer represents the species composition currently present at a given site. Vegetation map units are primarily derived from NatureServe's Ecological Systems classification, which is a nationally consistent set of mid-scale ecological units. Additional units are derived from NLCD, National Vegetation Classification Standard (NVCS) Alliances, and LANDFIRE specific types.

EVTs are mapped using decision tree models, field data, Landsat imagery, elevation, and biophysical gradient data. Decision tree models are developed separately for each of the three lifeforms -tree, shrub, and herbaceous and are then used to generate lifeform specific EVT layers.

LANDFIRE uses EVT in several subsequent layers, including the development of the fuel layers.

Attribute Data Dictionary
Note: Data Dictionary report doesn't include all EVTs, a complete data dictionary is forthcoming.

Attribute Table

Attribute tables for LANDFIRE grid data are available on the Data Distribution Site. Generally, these attribute tables provide information pertaining to the grid class value along with class descriptions or labels for these values. Attribute tables, such as the Existing Vegetation Type, provide additional attribute fields that can provide crosswalk links to other classification themes. Color mapping fields are also provided within the attribute tables, providing a standardized, consistent LANDFIRE color mapping schema for these data layers. The attribute files are in comma separated value (csv) format that can be easily converted to other formats to meet user needs.

The attribute tables are provided as a convenience as calculations with grid data will automatically drop attributes. For example, if a grid is clipped, the rowid, value, and count are the only attributes retained. Attribute fields can be reattached to the grid using a join attribute function having the "value" attribute as the link.