Leveraging Esri Tools to Transform Nonprofit Operations: Insights from Mohonk Preserve
By Steven Davidson, Community and Social Media Manager, TechSoup
Nonprofits are increasingly turning to technology to enhance their mission-driven impact. Mohonk Preserve, New York’s largest nonprofit nature preserve, provides a compelling example of how leveraging Esri’s geographical information system (GIS) tools has revolutionized their operations.
In a recent interview, Ed Pestone, the Associate Director of Land Protection and GIS at Mohonk Preserve, detailed its transition from traditional data collection methods to a cutting-edge, integrated digital system.
A Mission-Driven Transformation
Mohonk Preserve is dedicated to protecting over 8,200 acres of land, including vital habitats and conservation easements. This monumental task is supported by its mission to protect the natural environment while promoting exciting recreational and educational experiences for members and visitors.
As Ed Pestone describes below, his role in integrating GIS technology into the Preserve’s practices is akin to that of a problem-solver, ensuring efficient data collection and processing across departments.
From Pen and Paper to Esri-Enhanced Efficiency
Previously reliant on pen-and-paper methods, Mohonk Preserve’s data collection processes were labor-intensive and time-consuming. Volunteers would document field observations using paper maps and compasses, which required extensive post-collection data processing.
However, with Esri tools like ArcGIS Field Maps and ArcGIS Quick Capture, they’ve streamlined these processes significantly.
The transition to digital methods began with integrating mobile applications to collect GPS data in the field. The transformation gathered pace in 2021 when they adopted Esri’s Field Maps for direct data collection, reducing office processing time.
Now, a report that took six to eight hours to complete can be done in two or three thanks to the integration of web applications like ArcGIS Experience Builder that align seamlessly with field assignments.
Simplifying Volunteer Engagement
A crucial aspect of Mohonk Preserve’s volunteer engagement strategy has been making data collection accessible and straightforward for volunteers. By using Esri’s ArcGIS Hub Premium, they’ve created community licenses for volunteers, allowing them access to Field Maps. This initiative has helped transform how volunteers, such as the Backcountry Patrol and Trail Keepers, submit field observations.
Through cleverly designed forms that auto-populate key fields like volunteer names and dates, the Preserve has simplified the data entry process. Volunteers can now see existing observations in real time, minimizing duplication and improving response times. The system also features grading for report priorities, helping staff efficiently allocate attention to pressing issues.
Addressing Nonprofit Challenges with Esri Tools
The Preserve’s successful deployment of Esri’s tools extends beyond data collection to challenges in monitoring wildlife. For example, Peregrine Watch volunteers can now easily submit data on breeding falcons via streamlined forms, replacing outdated paper and Google Forms.
Esri tools also play a pivotal role in planning and reporting. Through dashboards and story maps, Ed and his team can effectively visualize and communicate volunteer activities and conservation successes both internally and externally.
The video below showcases the variety of conservation and climate-related data that is collected by Mohonk Preserve to help inform conservation science, sustainable land management, and stewardship.
Advice for Nonprofits Considering Esri
For nonprofits looking to harness Esri’s technology, Ed offers key advice: start small. Begin with a few licenses, prioritize projects, and build up gradually. This phased approach allows organizations to manage workloads without becoming overwhelmed. As nonprofits gradually become accustomed to these new tools, they can scale project applications similarly to Mohonk Preserve’s expansion.
The shift from traditional data collection methods to advanced GIS applications has enabled Mohonk Preserve to protect the environment more effectively and meaningfully engage with volunteers and staff. Its story is a testament to the transformative power of technology in advancing nonprofit missions.
As nonprofit organizations navigate an increasingly digital world, stories like that of Mohonk Preserve serve as an inspiration and a practical guideline for integrating Esri’s powerful tools to enhance impact and efficiency.
In addition to Esri, Mohonk Preserve also uses tools from TechSoup such as Adobe, Tableau, Zoom, Mobile Beacon, Bitdefender, Microsoft Office, Power Apps, and Power Automate; and hardware from Dell and Lenovo. Join TechSoup to access an extensive range of transformative technology solutions, services, and resources aimed at empowering nonprofits around the world to advance their missions.
About Mohonk Preserve
Mohonk Preserve is New York’s largest nonprofit nature preserve, protecting and managing over 8,200 acres of mountain ridges, forests, fields, streams, ponds, and other unique and beautiful places. Mohonk Preserve’s volunteers, donors, and staff collaborate towards creating a place where people and nature thrive, implemented through four main program areas: conservation programs (conservation science and land protection), community education, visitor experience, and stewardship.
Website: https://www.mohonkpreserve.org
About TechSoup
TechSoup equips nonprofits with transformative technology solutions and skills they need to improve lives globally and locally. TechSoup members can access a vast range of discounted and donated technology solutions available in the TechSoup catalog.
TechSoup also offers Quad, an online membership community where nonprofits go to get answers, insights, and inspiration about digital transformation and technology solutions that can help nonprofits transform the world. Quad is a space to connect with tech experts and other mission-driven organizations, where members access curated information, training and courses, events, and technology product offers to support their organizations in advancing their missions and impact. Member organizations can invite up to 10 of their staff to join Quad and engage with this peer-to-peer network. One of these benefits (for eligible nonprofits) is access to substantially discounted rates on Esri’s ArcGIS, related training, and content.
Join Quad: https://page.techsoup.org/introducing-quad
