An Introduction to GIS concepts and some new ideas to consider. What you need is a GIS that really works! A tool that resource managers can use. I need to make a map ! You need a GIS specialist ! You need a G.I.S. ! You need training ! EPIC 2000

What is GIS? (Geographic Information Systems) Definition: A Geographic Information System is a computer based system used to: capture, manage, edit, analyze and output geographically referenced information. Components: A GIS has 4 essential components: Hardware Software Data People The most important component is PEOPLE EPIC 2000

GIS Database Layering Concept EPIC 2000

GIS Community is Split Between Two Different Views of the World Vector Raster EPIC 2000

What is the Difference Between Raster or Vector Formats? Raster Data Vector Data EPIC 2000

Types of Vector Data POLYGON Examples: Land use Soils Ownership tracts Parcels LINE Examples: Streamlines Road networks Pipelines POINT Examples: Sample locations Archareologic sites Gas wells Symbols and text EPIC 2000

Types of Raster Data (Cell size determines Resolution) Data Layers Examples: DEM DOQs and DRGs Scanned Images Land use & Soils Watersheds Vector Overlays Examples: MCD, PLS Roads Cover types Lakes & Streams Point Overlays Examples: GPS data points Historical data stored by Public land Survey Well logs Gypsy moth sites EPIC 2000

GIS software options available Raster GIS Vector GIS DNR - LMIC extensions link EPPL7, EPIC and ArcView ESRI extensions add spatial analysis functions EPIC 2000

Which is Better, Raster or Vector? Both systems have their strengths. Vector Systems (ArcView) Strengths: Visual display Data capture Raster Systems (EPIC and EPPL7) Strengths: Spatial Analysis Modeling How data is used: Data is displayed and analyzed in vector format Raster data is used like wall paper for display. How data is used: Data is displayed and analyzed in raster format. Vector data is used as overlays for display and mapping. EPIC 2000

Both Raster and Vector Systems Use the Same Data Both Raster and Vector Systems Use the Same Data! (User must know the resolution of the data source) EPIC 2000

Data is Data ! Vector data : Raster data : Community maps and annual updates were digitized using ArcInfo and converted to Shape files and to raster files. Raster data : All analysis was performed on the data in raster format. Analysis like: hazard zones, Sore load, economic cost benefit analysis and community accomplishments. EPIC 2000

Integrated GIS options for Minnesota EPPL7, EPIC 2000 and ArcView