Geospatial information systems (GIS) technologies compile multiple layers of information about a specific area on a map. GIS can be used to map crime, show land use, track wildfires, and more. Image: NOAA
Today (November 19) is GIS Day, an opportunity to salute the many dedicated technicians who use geographic information systems (GIS) technology to help us see the world around us in new ways.
Dozens of GIS users and experts from DNR, Ecology, Washington State Department of Transportation, Washington Military Department, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. and several other agencies are gathered today in the John L. O’Brien Building on the Sate Capitol Campus to share their uses of GIS in the public’s interest. DNR, for example, uses GIS to reveal geologic formations and hazards as well as map forest roads, streams, trails and other features. The technology also can be used to track the spread of invasive species, map marine vegetation, or plan land uses.
To see a real-world application of GIS data, visit DNR’s Washington Geological Information Portal where you can toggle multi-layered maps to find locations of major earthquake faults, lahar and tsunami evacuation zones, underground geologic formations, and more.
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