Previewing layers

Layers can be previewed before they are added to the model. Along with the description, you can preview a layer to determine whether it has data in the area you are researching. This allows you to determine whether the layer is going to be useful to your research before it is added to the model and assigned weights. For instance, suppose you want to add the Critical Habitat layer to the model, but you are not certain that the layer contains data relevant to a proposed park location. You can preview the layer and verify that it has data for the species in your area.

Steps:

1. If necessary, click Select Layers.

   The Select Layers properties appear.

2. Click the Preview button next to the layer you want to view.

   The layer is added to the map, and the icon color changes from black to white.