GIS-Database Management

Background

The Natural Resource Division started using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in 1996 with the creation of the Forest Mitigation Program. We needed a way to identify park areas in need of restoration and GIS was the answer. Potential sites are analyzed by viewing aerial photography to look for areas void of vegetation. The Department also utilizes this technology to map and display all of its land holdings in a spatial format. Mapping the holdings in this manner helps the Department identify gaps in greenways and wildlife corridors. This helps us in targeting areas for acquisition. This technology has also helped in the response time to inquiries and complaints. We are now able to determine ownership quickly through this computerized system versus our method of digging through paper maps and files. A GIS Support Technician oversees the GIS/Database Management unit.

Today

We have come a long way since 1996. We've moved into the areas of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) and IPAC Pocket PC’s.

GPS/GIS
Global Positioning Systems are utilized for a variety of projects including park facility amenity inventory, which includes buildings, ball fields, courts, lighting etc. This effort records specific information about an amenity such as model number, manufacturer and description. We also record information related to the managed deer hunt, vegetation monitoring, wildlife population studies, forest assessments and trail mapping just to name a few. GIS has now become completely incorporated into all aspects of the Natural Resource Division. It is used for everything from determining mowing locations to identifying where invasive species have been treated and from designing trail layouts to recording deer vehicle collisions throughout the county. Flight coordinates for our FLIR efforts are determined through the use of GIS. Every year selected parks are flown over using FLIR technology to determine deer populations.

Database
This section develops and maintains all databases related to Natural Resource Management activities and is the support for the entire Natural Resource Division and the Department in matters related to mapping and database management. Databases include park inventory, land ownership, forest mitigation, forest assessment, employee task tracking, complaints, violations and many others. For information on the Departments efforts with GIS, GPS or database management contact Dawn Poholsky at 410-313-1677