Ohio Watershed Academy 2009

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Introduction to Geographic Information Systems

(This module was developed in collaboration with Aaron Lantz , Digital Soil Information Specialist with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Soil and Water Conservation and Josh Hause, Graduate Research Associate with OSU Extension)

Introduction

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are some of the most comprehensive tools available for watershed and land use planning. The implementation of GIS can not only reduce time needed for analyzing information about a watershed, but can also ensure a more efficient use of resources. GIS enables users to display large amounts of data graphically to greatly enhance interpretation and analysis.

Typically, GIS is used to create and enhance maps and aerial photographs. Maps generated with GIS can aid in identifying critical areas to target for protection or restoration, reducing the time needed to conduct physical inventories on the ground. Maps created with GIS can highlight important watershed characteristics, such as highly erodible soils, soil types, steep slopes, sub-surface drainage, land cover, land use/zoning, floodplains, and wetlands. Other important features relevant to planning may include: storm sewers and combined sewers, land parcel data, public lands such as parks, state and national forests as well as surface and underground mines.

The purpose of this module is to help you become more familiar with how GIS can be used in watershed planning and implementation. You will also become more familiar with available GIS data and resources.

This module is especially tailored to those who have had little to no experience with such technologies but would like to learn more about how GIS can be used in watershed planning and implementation.

Learning Objectives:

· Use a web-based digital mapping resource to catalogue data, consider changes, and communicate information

· Increased understanding of where GIS data comes from and how it can be applied

· Increased awareness of digital mapping resources and where to find them.

Additional Resources :


The following websites provide examples of how GIS is being used for watershed planning and implementation:

  • University of Missouri C.A.R.E.S. (Center for Agricultural, Resource, and Environmental Systems) Map Room The State of Missouri has streamlined a great deal of their GIS data into this system.
  • http://facweb.arch.ohio-state.edu/sgordon/research/darby/start.html
    This site shows how GIS has been used in the Big Darby Creek watershed for implementation and planning. Inside you will see 26 different GIS data "themes" that were used in their project and 24 examples of GIS maps they created with the various data layers. You will also find several links to GIS data (local and statewide) and other useful watershed-related links.
  • http://www.dalisproject.org/pages/misc_maps.htm
    This link takes you to the Dalis Project, created by the County Auditor's Office of Delaware County. While not specific to watershed planning, the site will show you many GIS maps created for Delaware County that span nearly all sectors of government and planning activities. You will find Environmental Maps here, but take some time to investigate the many ways this agency has used GIS to analyze and present information about the county.
  • http://www.wi.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/rwa.html This site demonstrates how Wisconsin is using GIS as part of the Natural Resources Conservation Service's Rapid Water Assessment program. This program provides initial estimates to help determine where conservation investments would best address the concerns of landowners, counties, watershed groups, and other stakeholders. These assessments help landowners and local leaders set priorities and determine the best actions to achieve their goals. You can also find information on this site about Conservation Planning Tools, Comprehensive Nutrient Management Programs and a link to the National Resources Inventory.

Where You Can Go From Here:

GIS is a growing field. This module will introduce you to how GIS can be used in watershed management, but the more information and training you have the more effective this technology can be for your watershed projects. Below is a list of training and information resources:

Assignments

Assignment EDMA4-1

Last modified: Friday, 13 March 2009, 09:38 AM