2023 Updates to the National Incident Feature Service and Event Geodatabase
For 2023, there are no schema updates and no major changes to GeoOps or the GISS Workflow! This is a conscious choice and is intended to provide a needed break for both users and administrators. Over the last 5 years, nearly every aspect of the GISS position has seen a major overhaul and while the advancements have been overwhelmingly positive, many of us are experiencing change fatigue. This is not to say there is no room for improvement. Many great suggestions were received throughout the season and in the GISS Survey, and they will be considered for inclusion in 2024. That there are no critical updates necessary also indicates that we have reached a level of maturity with the current state, and that is good news for everyone. Please continue to submit your ideas; they are appreciated and valuable insight, even if the change is not implemented.
For information on 2023 AGOL updates please see the Create and Share Web Maps | NWCG page.
There are three smaller changes worth noting this year:
Standard Symbology is now the default on the NIFS For most workflows, the update will be seamless. All the Event Standard symbols are now supported in Field Maps and Map Viewer. Most users will now see the same symbols in all print and digital products. However, in AGOL some web apps do not support the complex line symbols. The simplified lines will still be present in the official Editing Apps (Operations, SITL, and GISS), and any custom apps built with the Web App Builder (WAB) interface. Experience Builder can be used for any new app creation. If you must use WAB or another app that cannot display the complex line symbology in the NIFS, please contact wildfireresponse@firenet.gov for guidance. Event Line now has Preconfigured Labels Labels on Event Line have historically been uncommon, but to speed their implementation when necessary, color-coded labels classes have been added to the NIFS and the lyrx files provided in the GIS Folder Structure. They can be disabled or modified as needed, should they interfere with any of your workflows. “Restricted” Folder added to GeoOps Folder Structure At the base level within the 2023_Template, a ‘restricted’ folder is now included. This folder should be used for all data and products that contain sensitive, restricted, or controlled-unclassified information. This will aid the DOCL and any future FOIA liaisons in protecting this information. When using OneDrive, this folder can optionally be password protected. Reminder: Sensitive Data is not allowed to be hosted within the NIFC Org.