GIS Applications in Ecology

Jim HovanConestoga Valley HS

Lancaster, PAjim_hovan@cvsd.k12.pa.us

717.397-5231 ext. 2233

GIS Basics• GIS or Geographic Information

Systems are digital cartographic and database systems that allow you to store, organize, and access a limitless array of data in a spatial environment.

• GIS is a ubiquitous technology that is used in everything from cell phone navigation, Internet direction services, to corporate logistics (May we have your zip code / phone number?).

GIS Basics• Shapefiles

– Points– Lines– Polygons– 3-dimentional Objects

• Layers– Base Layer– Turn on/off layers as needed

• See in PA Virtual Atlas

GIS Basics

http://ssnds.uwo.ca/sscnetworkupdate/2006winter/images/gis.jpg

GIS Basics• Web-based vs. Desktop GIS

– What’s the difference?

– What are the pros and cons?

GIS Basics• Many governmental agencies

organize their data spatially using GIS and make it available to the public for free.

• Until recently these data have been available primarily for use with desktop GIS applications.

• More and more data are available for web-based GIS applications, particularly Google Earth.

GIS Basics• Getting Started with Web-based

(ALL FREE)– Web-based Google Earth– PASDA Maps and PA Virtual Atlas– PA SoilMap

• Getting Started with Desktop GIS– ArcGIS Explorer (Free)– ArcGIS Schools and Libraries Site

License (Very Cheap!)– Obtain data from PASDA or County

GIS websites.

Sample Projects in Ecology

Sample Projects in Ecology

• Unnamed watershed delineation using Google Earth

• Mapping tributaries using Google Earth

• Land Use analysis using Google Earth

• Virtual Field Trips using Google Earth

Sample Projects in Ecology

• Bedrock analysis and soil survey using ArcGIS

• Slope confirmation using ArcGIS

• Small Watershed Study using ArcGIS

• Keeping track of field data using ArcGIS

• Development Project using ArcGIC

Sample Projects in Ecology•Getting Started with GIS Activity.

Any Questions?

THANK YOU

Don’t be afraid that you’re going to make a mess!