GIS dataset information

Our Geographical Information System (GIS) is made up from lots of different datasets. Many of which are available for download in these pages.  A dataset (or data set) is a collection of data stored in a tabular form which can also be represented spatially by way of an interactive map.

The CCW datasets covering protected sites include information on:

• Special Sites of Scientific Importance (SSSI).
  SSSIs include a wide range of habitats from small fens, bogs and riverside meadows to sand dunes, woodlands and vast tracks of uplands.
  
  
• Special Areas of Conservation (SAC).
  SACs are strictly protected sites designated under European law.
  
  
• Special Protection Areas (SPA).
  SPAs are strictly protected sites, also known as the Birds Directive, on the conservation of wild birds.
  
  
• Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Sites).
  Wetlands are hugely important areas which boast fantastic biological diversity and provide the water and means by which large numbers of plant and animal species survive.
  
  
• National Nature Reserves (NNR).
  The great nature reserves of Wales, stretching from the Great Orme in the north to the Mawddach Valley in the south.
  
  
• Marine Nature Reserves (MNR).
  The purpose of MNRs is to conserve marine life and geological features of special interest, whilst also providing opportunities for study of these marine systems.
  
  
• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
  An AONB is usually a mark of great landscpae and scenic beauty. This means that an AONB is not necessarily an area of high nature conservation value, but in practice it often includes many areas which are.
  
  
• Heritage Coasts.
  The "heritage coast" classification scheme was initiated in 1972 to protect coastline of special scenic and environmental value from undesirable development. The Countryside Council for Wales administers the coasts in Wales with some 42% of coast in Wales is protected under the scheme.
  
  
• Biospheric Reserves.
  These sites are dedicated to understanding how human activity affects the biosphere. They are an international designation made by UNESCO – the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation and sites are based on nominations made by more than 110 countries. Wales has one internationally recognised reserve that is dedicated to studying and understanding the way our way of life affects the land, air and water around us.
  
  
• Biogenetic Reserves.
  These reserves highlight those areas of land and water that are of tremendous value for wildlife.
  
  
• Ancient and Semi Natural Woodland.
  Ancient and Semi-Natural Woodlands are a vital part of our heritage. They provide a range of habitats which support a wide diversity of plants and animals. Many woodland species depend entirely for their survival on the continued existence of these habitats.

Please note, we intend to further increase the amount of online datasets available – so please do check back.