The data was first converted to an ARC/INFO line coverage, and then projected to Albers. It was then split into three portions, so three individuals could edit one portion each. For each of these portions, dangles that appeared to nearly connect were connected, using a very small tolerance. Where the gaps were larger, or where it appeared there was data missing, the GSTC SOC database was queried, using an ArcView browser, and the appropriate line segment copied if available (some line segments in the original CFF data may have been coded as other features, but may also have been the nf boundary). If it did not exist there, hard copy maps were referenced, and the necessary arcs digitized from the map or on screen using the 1:2,000,000-scale NF boundary data displayed as a reference. The maps used were generally a combination of paper or film prints of the 1:126,720-scale Forest Visitor maps and 1:24,000-scale Primary Base Series Forest Service quads. In some cases, the data was available in the GSTC PBS quad editing database, or online, if the quads were in the process of being revised, and the necessary portions of boundary were then taken from these, as they would be the most current. When all gaps were filled in, the coverages were used as backcoverages for reference when edgematching the IRA data from the National Forests.
Pseudo nodes were later removed, and polygon attributes were built after the three portions of the coverage were appended together. Additional corrections were made as necessary. The Proclaimed Forest Boundaries were disolved. The coverage was projected to geographic for analysis and display.
Much of the USDA Forest Service data are compiled, processed, and maintained with ARC/INFO software developed by the Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI). Much of the information presented uses conventions and terms popularized by ARC/INFO and its user community. The mention of commercial firms or products is for clarity and identification of procedures and methods only, and no endorsements are implied by the USDA Forest Service.