Geographic Information Systems using esri's ArcGIS Trial Version

For my equipment assignment, I chose to research and learn about Graphic Information Systems, most commonly referred to as GIS. GIS uses geographic information to find answers to questions enabling professionals and communities to make better decisions. GIS also provides the necessary tools to create, use, and share graphic information with others.

There are many tools within GIS that facilitate information and map sharing with specific groups, provide links for relaying additional information, and embed maps within websites or to make a web application. Data within a GIS map has spatial and attribute information associated with it to explain not only where something is, but what it is. This allows users to analyze trends and find relationships to optimize the quality of decision making.

In the esri Gallery there are numerous project examples using GIS for mapping critical habitat of endangered species, illustrating the ecological footprint of countries, and mapping wetlands.  GIS can be a powerful tool for conservationists, allowing them to relay information and connect readers in an inspiring way to an environmental issue or an endangered species using a tool called a story map. Below are two of my favorite story maps sourced from the gallery on the esri GIS website. The story title is an active link to take you to the story.

Welcome to the Anthropocene Era

The Struggle to Save Elephants

I've understood the importance of using GIS and also seen great examples of how it helps communities relay and find the answers they seek to environmental issues but I’m a novice when it comes to using it. Therefore, I chose to download and work through a free, online tutorial: Getting Started with GIS for Versions 10.1 and 10.2. This self-paced tutorial taught the basics like vector data and corresponding attribute information. It covered the more advanced raster grid cell system where each cell stores a value that can be discreet or a continuous value like precipitation or elevation. It explained how data is stored for both vectors and rasters. The tutorial demonstrated map navigation, available map views, and how to find existing information. The tutorial was very beneficial as it allows for hands-on learning and practice.

Today as I was putting together this assignment, within minutes,  I was able to prepare a map showing the greater Roanoke area that showed the Roanoke River flood zones, VA Impaired Waters and Causes of Impairment. I was even able to add the USFWS Wetlands on the GIS representation.

From this stage, I could go on to create a story-like presentation further developing and creating a teaching and communication tool. Watershed assessment project, here I come!