Our duty as GIS professionals is to use mapping to present, analyze, and visualize data collected and portray it in the most logical and informative way. Whether it is showing a map of a flood, before and after, to help planners develop new stormwater control or showing the location of migratory bird destinations and how global warming has affected it, GIS paints the picture.

In celebration of GIS Day, let’s take a look at a few examples of what we’re doing at G&A.

Currently, GIS is aiding our stormwater MS4 initiatives in many ways. We currently map our client’s storm systems using GIS technology and with GPS devices for field collection. The ability to understand storm water runoff and its implications to the environment cannot be overstated.

Using ArcGIS online and mobile applications, such as Survey123 and Collector, our municipal departments have been able to utilize GIS for field survey and outfall inspection test requirements. This ability allows sharing of user collected data online and extraction for analysis and report documents.

In addition, GIS is used by our planning departments to create community trail networks, proposed and existing. Using GIS allows planners and community decision makers the ability to layer different criteria to make informed decisions. An example would be “show me a map that displays steep slopes, FEMA floodplains, stream buffers, and existing buildings to highlight where a trail corridor can or can’t be built.”

Simple or complex, the use of maps helps us visualize what is there, what could be there, and what needs to be there. Use maps to inspire thought. Use maps to ‘Change the World’.

Alex Nguyen, GISP, MCP, Geographic Information Systems Manager