Classification Schemes

Original C-CAP Classification Scheme
The original C-CAP classification scheme was developed specifically for the coastal environment to map wetlands, coastal submersed habitats, and adjacent uplands. This focus on the coastal environment ensured major categories of both palustrine and estuarine habitats would be mapped. C-CAP land cover data completed prior to 2005 were created according to this scheme.

Coastal NLCD Classification Scheme
The Coastal NLCD classification scheme is a result of a partnership between NOAA and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to build the National Land Cover Database (NLCD) 2001. As a result of this partnership, the two classification schemes were merged so that coastal-specific (e.g., wetlands) categories were maintained. C-CAP land cover data are being produced according to this new classification scheme and will directly contribute to NLCD 2001.