The GIS analysts (mapping experts) at Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) have recently completed significant updates to a powerful tool for Colorado hunters. CPW was an early innovator in internet mapping technology, creating hunting map resources more than two decades ago. Over the years, the Colorado Hunting Atlas has provided a wealth of interactive hunting information and features. However, as technology has advanced, the Atlas, while still informative, was overdue for an upgrade.
In 2003, CPW released MapIt!, its first dedicated interactive mapping application for hunters. In 2009, MapIt! was redesigned and rebranded to become The Colorado Hunting Atlas. To put this into perspective, OnX Hunt was not released until 2013, a full decade after MapIt!, and COTREX came online in 2017. Both of these tools have raised the bar for design and functionality, prompting the CPW team to enhance their own tool.
Before starting the upgrade, our development team reached out to some of our most regular users for feedback. The CPW customer service representatives (CSRs) have long utilized the Hunting Atlas to assist with hunting-related questions and to educate hunters about its features. This put our CSRs in a unique position to provide input as primary users and to relay feedback from the public. The team carefully listened, took notes, and implemented the suggestions that would best benefit our many thousands of users.
Here’s a quick overview of some significant changes to the Colorado Hunting Atlas. Whether you’re new to the Atlas or a seasoned user, you will find it to be an excellent starting point for virtual scouting and a valuable resource for insights into animal movement in the areas you’re considering for your hunt.
General Design Enhancements
We simplified the design to align with popular online mapping options. We also cleaned up the data by removing seldom-used tools and reducing menu clutter to enhance clarity. Additionally, we relocated some datasets, including License Agent locations and Office locations, to a base layer. This change ensures they are always visible without occupying space in the map layer menus. Finally, we created a consistent experience for both mobile and desktop users.
Map layers and new data
-
- Organized data layers thematically.
-
- Simplified layer transparency control to apply only to the relevant layer groups.
-
- Improved layer descriptions (metadata) and included our update cycles.
-
- Added locations of animal Mandatory Check Stations.
-
- Introduced high-contrast basemap options.
-
- Created a collapsible map layer menu for a clearer view of the map.
ID Tool
-
- Enhanced readability by increasing the font size, improving text weight, and adding icons.
-
- Reduced the number of data subsets to ensure that more information is immediately accessible.
-
- Introduced a copy function for coordinates (x/y) to facilitate better integration with OnX.
-
- Added the capability to identify trails and MVUM roads. The MVUM map service shows the specific types of motorized vehicles allowed on the designated routes and their seasons of use. The MVUM roads layers are maintained and imported on demand from the US Forest Service (USFS).
-
- Included links to websites for additional information on data items.
Search Tool
-
- Combined multiple search functions into a single menu location
-
- Better address search provides street names, zip code by address, and ½ roads
-
- Allow filtering for more precise searches
Help Options
-
- Made the Help menu more prominent
- Added an easy-to-find contact number to the call center
- Provide a condensed list of helpful links, including a (NEW!) link to the Fishing Atlas that passes a user’s current map view.
- COMING SOON: Use Case videos
Please share feedback about the new Colorado hunting Atlas in the comments below. The CPW GIS team always looks for ways to provide our hunters with the best mapping tools. Thanks for your support, and be sure to take your time exploring the wealth of information in the new Colorado Hunting Atlas!