Sépaq manages the largest nature and outdoor network in Québec. They manage public natural territories and tourism facilities throughout the province, including 22 national parks and 15 wildlife reserves. To preserve these natural sites, Sépaq uses geographic information system (GIS) technology to increase their knowledge of the territories under their management, support sustainable development and improve visitor experience. Their geomatics team, composed of three people, has produced more than 1,500 maps of various types that inform decisions. They have also created interactive Web and mobile applications that help visitors to easily navigate and learn about the natural attractions of each park. For their outstanding work, Esri Canada today presented Sépaq with an Award of Excellence in GIS.
“We’re always conscious of improving our customers’ experience,” said Raymond Desjardins, president and CEO at Sépaq. “Sépaq leverages geomatics technology to provide park visitors, and fishing and hunting enthusiasts with useful and sometimes even essential information that’s critical to their favourite activity.”
“Parks are complex ecosystems that need careful management,” said Alex Miller, president, Esri Canada. “Issues including invasive species, climate change and development around these sites need to be effectively managed to ensure the preservation of the natural environment. In using GIS, Sépaq has established an effective decision support system and a versatile platform for sharing information to increase the public’s appreciation and enjoyment of Québec parks.”
Sépaq’s geomatics team uses Esri’s ArcGIS technology to manage geographic data about the national parks, wildlife reserves and tourist centres in their network. GIS integrates various data and supports the analysis of numerous concerns such as the impact of logging on the natural landscape or moose habitat. The team also uses GIS to determine the ideal location for new recreational sites such as hiking trails and cabins.
In addition, in 2011, Sépaq developed Park Path Explorer, a free Web application that allows users to better plan their visit to Québec parks and learn about nature in these protected territories. Built using ArcGIS for Server and the ArcGIS API for JavaScript, Park Path Explorer is an online, interactive kiosk for visitors to plan their activities. It provides information on the wide range of activities available at the parks, their features and level of difficulty. Even before arriving at the parks, visitors can explore and appreciate “discovery spots” on the trail using the version of the application for Apple and Android mobile devices.
“Geomatics is an efficient service supporting the various needs of our organization,” said Jean-Sébastien Blais, GIS manager, Sépaq. “Our GIS allows us to take advantage of popular technology such as the Internet and mobile devices to discover Québec’s rich natural heritage in both an educational and recreational experience.”
Access the Park Path Explorer app at parcparcours.com.
Learn more about ArcGIS technology at esri.ca/products/arcgis.
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About Esri Canada
Founded in 1984, Esri Canada provides enterprise geographic information system (GIS) solutions that empower businesses, governments and educational institutions to make timely, informed and mission-critical decisions by leveraging the power of geography. The company distributes the world’s leading GIS software from Esri, Telvent, Cityworks – Azteca Systems, Inc. and other technology partners. Headquartered in Toronto, the company serves over 10,000 customers from 16 regional offices across Canada and has been named as one of the Top 250 Canadian IT Companies and Top 25 IT Professional Services Providers in Canada by the Branham Group, as well as one of Computer Dealer News’ Top 100 IT Solution Providers in Canada. Information about Esri Canada can be found at esri.ca.
