Geographic Information Systems
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Geographic Information Systems
A Geographic Information System (GIS) is an integrated package of specialized computer software, hardware, and trained personnel, capable of displaying, analyzing, cataloging, and sharing geographic data. At MBESI, we use GIS to integrate spatial data from a variety of sources which generate informational products that include maps, charts, tables, or new data to answer questions about spatial relationships in the environment.
Our System Tools :
Software:
- ArcGIS 10.0 (ArcEditor License w/ Spatial Analyst Extension)
- AutoCAD 2011
- Adobe Photoshop CS5
Hardware:
- Trimble GeoExplorer 2008 GPS
- HP DesignJet 4500 42” Plotter
Services Provided:
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Contour mapping – Elevation data generated from either ground survey or remote sensing technology (LiDAR). Slope analysis, bluffland zone identification, erodible land identification, and sinkhole signature mapping are example products of contour data.
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Floodplain mapping – Floodplain maps with extent of 100yr. or 500yr. floodplain identified for zoning or development issues. Predictive flood inundation maps can be generated for many places where nearby water poses a real threat.
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Viewshed Analysis – Determines the area in a landscape that will be visible from an observation point. Used in wind turbine sighting and transmission route planning.
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Terrain Analysis – Using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) elevation data to develop models to better understand surface water flow across a landscape. Primary attributes are the foundation of terrain analysis and include the following examples: digital elevation model, slope, aspect, curvature, and flow direction. Secondary terrain attributes are derivatives of two or more primary attributes and include the Wetness Index and Stream Power Index.
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Posters, PowerPoint Presentations and Figures – Many posters are created in a GIS environment. Presentation materials including; maps, tables, or pictures are typically generated in ArcMap before importing to Photoshop or something similar.
Example Projects:
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Cascade Meadow Wetlands & Environmental Science Center – Zumbro River Watershed Floor Map (17’x15’ large scale map showing entire watershed on a high resolution aerial background)
- Pleasant Valley Wind, LLC. - Large Wind Energy Conversion System (aka Wind Farm) fatal flaw analysis included numerous maps to expose the presence of biological, archaeological, economical, or physical features capable of delaying the project. For example, an extensive road-side bird survey was conducted for two years to inventory the bird species that occupy the project area and if any are listed under Federal or State laws.
- Shell Rock River Watershed District – Terrain analysis using LiDAR elevation data for identification of critical areas of the landscape to focus conservation efforts and design appropriate BMP’s. Precision conservation techniques maximize efficiency by targeting only the ‘hot spots’ of a landscape through a series of repeatable steps packaged in a model.
- Minnesota Trout Unlimited – Stream restoration mapping project for habitat improvement along numerous trout streams in Southeast Minnesota.
- Whitewater River Watershed – Sensitive Feature & Setback Mapping project in the South Branch Whitewater River Watershed. Outreach effort to educate feedlot operators about manure management and State laws regarding application of fertilizers.
If you have ideas about an exhibit, contact us and we'll be glad to show you the possibilities that exist.
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