host posted on July 19, 2011 13:34
What is a Geographic Information System?
A geographic information system (GIS) integrates hardware, software, and data for capturing, managing, analyzing, and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information. It encompasses the creation and maintenance of detailed maps and sophisticated databases. GIS provides a “bird’s eye view,” or visual representation of geography in the form of maps, reports, and charts that show relationships, patterns, and trends in the geography. Having this visual representation enables land managers and foresters to plan, problem-solve and make business decisions more effectively. GIS has been used over the last 30 years. Over this time period, it has been proven that using a GIS provides landowners with a better return on their land investments.
How can GIS technology be applied in the Forestry Industry?
Having accurate geographical information about land is critical to making informed decisions about how to manage it. Digital maps can be linked to relational databases that store baseline data, topography information, site documentation, and aerial digital photography. GIS technology significantly impacts the way land managers, timber managers, wildlife managers, and forestry specialists manage timber resources. Designing and implementing a comprehensive GIS plan is the foundation for sound forest management and wildlife management decisions. Additionally, a GIS plan is an integral part of developing a forest management plan.
Specifically, GIS technology is applied in the forestry industry in the following ways -
- Assists in the planning and scheduling of harvesting and planting trees.
- Provides land appraisers with detailed information needed to determine the market value of the land.
- Provides information for herbicide and fertilization treatment specialists and helps them accurately spray and fertilize specific places on the land.
- Assists grading contractors and logging companies in the planning of road systems, bridges, ponds, and land clearing.
- Helps wildlife management specialists with endangered species management. Provides habitat and species maps and data that allow for the study of animal populations.
- Provides forest managers with an inventory of the trees and other vegetation on the land.
- Provides hunters with information needed for food plot management and controlled burning.
What GIS mapping services does Milliken Forestry provide?
Using state-of-the-art equipment and software, Milliken Forestry provides the highest-quality GIS mapping & GPS services, including -
- Data Collection and Conversion
- Database Creation
- Mapping
- Data Modeling and Analysis
- Custom Map Interface Design and Development
- Aerial Photography Interpretation
Why choose Milliken Forestry for GIS mapping?
If you can imagine it, we can map it.
Milliken Forestry has mapped more than 2 million acres of land over the course of the last decade. We have provided GIS mapping services across a wide range of mapping needs. Without ever needing to set foot on the ground, we can generate GIS map files and printed maps that contain a wealth of information that can be customized to the specific needs of each client.
We use the latest technology in mapping, using tools such as screens made by Wacom that allow us to work directly with the aerial photography on the screen. Having this ability allows us to work faster and apply map detail that is spot on and extremely accurate.
We also use the latest aerial photography available. For example, the 2011 photographs of South Carolina recently became available, and we are using it. By using the latest photography, we are better able to create our mapping products. We have the benefit of being able to compare the newer photography to the older photography to see the changes that have occurred to the land.
Milliken Forestry has a team of GIS professionals who are highly experienced and educated. Jay Begg is one of 4,805 people worldwide with a GISP certification. Milliken is a member of the following GIS-related organizations:
For more information about Milliken Forestry’s GIS services, please contact us at 803-788-0590 or at staff@millikenforestry.com.