Applied Geography

Archive for April, 2009

GIS and Geographic Inquiry: Resources for Educators

In Education, GIS, Geography, Science on April 30, 2009 at 3:54 pm

img_esnlogonobetaTeachers in earth, environmental, biological, and general science are increasingly incorporating geospatial technologies into their lesson plans. The growing use of these tools in an array of social studies and STEM subjects supports authentic, problem-based instruction, helping students tackle real social and environmental research projects in their communities. The editors of eSchool News have compiled this special collection of news stories, best practices, and other resources designed to help educators integrate GIS and other geospatial technologies into classrooms and district offices.

Understanding Sprawl Inequality

In Climate Change, GIS, Geography, Science, Social Science on April 30, 2009 at 6:52 am

Rob McDonald, a scientist with The Nature Conservancy‘s Conservation Strategies Division, writes at the Cool Green Science blog:

“Another concept I’ve been exploring is what I’m calling sprawl inequality. This comes out of the famous Pareto Principle, that 80 percent of any phenomenon is due to 20 percent of the people. How much of habitat loss in cities is due to a small proportion of folks living in suburbs or exurbs? After a bunch of GIS work, the answer appears to be: 80 percent of urban development (in terms of area) is due to 35 percent of folks who live at the lowest densities. We may all have a responsibility to move toward more sustainable cities, but we aren’t all equally to blame for sprawl.”

Do Controlled Burns Ease Global Warming?

In Climate Change, Environmental Science, GIS, Science on April 30, 2009 at 6:41 am

…from The Australian…

“WHEN Europeans first encountered Australia, they saw a continent ablaze as Aboriginal ‘firestick farmers’ lit up the bush with controlled burns that prevented destructive wildfires. Now a hi-tech version of the land management practice, which is possibly tens of thousands of years old, could form part of Australia’s strategy to tackle a modern problem: global warming.

“The prescribed burning of the future probably will be ‘a combination of traditional knowledge and Western science’, says the CSIRO’s Heckbert.

“‘It would include a fire management plan based on sophisticated GIS (geographic information systems), precision weather forecasting and biomass models. Implementation of the plan would involve the deployment of helicopters and fire crews using the latest equipment, and the effects would be monitored with high-resolution satellite imagery.’”

Forestry Carbon Trading Opportunities Explored with GIS

In Climate Change, ESRI, Environmental Science, GIS, Science on April 29, 2009 at 12:53 pm

forecon…from the Winter 2009 issue of the Environmental Observer newsletter…

“Fossil fuel emissions lead to a host of degradations of our planet including global warming.  Forest researchers are offering a means of monitoring and counterbalancing civilization’s need for manufactured goods with nature’s ability to cleanse the atmosphere of harmful emissions resulting from production.  A key tool to measure these trade-offs and provide the basis for designing sustainable plans is the use of geographic technologies.  GIS can combine many layers of data, model that data in many ways, and generate reports and maps that make it easy to comprehend a complex problem.”

Climate Change Science, GIS, and Whole Earth Systems

In Climate Change, Design, Earth Systems Engineering, Earth Systems Management, Earth Systems Science, Environmental Science, GIS, Geography, Modeling, Science on April 29, 2009 at 10:40 am

Global climate change is a difficult, complex, politically charged, and vitally important issue. Yet from a knowledge perspective, we are at a distinct disadvantage: at this point in time, we still do not have a clear idea of everything we need to know in order to address the problem in a measured, rational, and above all, scientific manner.

When you think about the multitude of issues surrounding climate change science—from root causes to resultant impacts—geography is clearly an elemental factor in the equation. Every aspect of climate change affects or is affected by geography, be it at a global, regional, or local level. As a tool for helping us to better understand such geographies, GIS is the single most powerful integrating tool for inventorying, analyzing, and ultimately managing this extremely complex problem.

A GIS-based approach called “Whole Earth Systems” provides a framework for understanding and addressing the entire breadth of climate change science issues in a holistic manner. What do we mean by “Whole Earth Systems”? Scientists have long classified various phenomena into logical groupings or “systems.” These classifications have helped greatly to advance the understanding of component physical, biological, and social systems. While advancing the understanding of each of these systems individually is vitally important, ultimately we need to bring all of these systems together, to understand how they are interrelated and dependent upon one other.

Whole Earth Systems science offers an opportunity to advance the science and understanding of climate change by providing a framework for a comprehensive, interdisciplinary, integrated view of our planetary system. Aggregating complex physical, biological, and social data and models within a unified framework will give us single view of the whole Earth system and provide us with the tools to manage—and ultimately design—our future in the most effective, efficient, and morally defensible way.

Quote of the Day

In ESRI, Earth Systems Management, Quotes, Visualization on April 29, 2009 at 7:33 am

“…consumer mapping … technologies have … provided geo-awareness to everybody. And they’ve done it principally by building a standardized basemap for the planet.”

–Jack Dangermond, ESRI President

Spatial Statistics, Geostatistics, and GIS: Free Training Available

In ESRI, GIS, Modeling, Science, Statistics on April 28, 2009 at 10:13 am

If you read my recent interview with Konstantin Krivoruchko and got excited about the multitude of opportunities to use statistics, spatial statistics, and geostatistics in your research, but didn’t know where to start, then check out these free training opportunities.

Integrating SAS Software with ArcGIS [Recorded Training Seminar; 60 minutes]
Integrating SAS and ArcGIS software enables organizations to streamline workflows and improve spatial analysis. The SAS Bridge for ESRI creates a connection between ArcGIS and SAS software, giving users access to spatial, numeric, and textual data through a single interface. With the SAS Bridge for ESRI, ArcGIS users can view SAS tables, geographically display SAS tabular data, symbolize geospatial data with SAS data, and export attribute data to SAS data sets to conduct statistical analyses.

This seminar highlights how ArcMap, the SAS Bridge for ESRI, and SAS software were used to focus the search for debris from the Space Shuttle Columbia. The seminar describes various ways to work with SAS tables and data in ArcCatalog and ArcMap, such as predictive modeling and trend analysis, and also provides other examples of how integrating ArcGIS and SAS software can help users solve real-world problems.

The presenters discuss

  • The Space Shuttle Columbia debris recovery effort.
  • Working with the SAS Bridge for ESRI.
  • Using SAS Enterprise Guide.
  • Performing linear and logistic regression in SAS software.
  • Using SAS tables in ArcMap and ArcCatalog.
  • Predictive modeling using SAS and ArcGIS software.

Regression Analysis Basics in ArcGIS 9.3 [Recorded Training Seminar; 60 minutes]
Regression analysis techniques are used to examine how phenomena vary over space (where things occur), predict where phenomena may occur, and help explain the factors behind observed spatial patterns.

By finding answers to questions such as:

  • Where are people persistently dying young in the United States?
  • Where are children consistently achieving high test scores?

You can then explore questions such as:

  • Why are people dying young?
  • What factors contribute to consistently high test scores?

In ArcGIS 9.3, new advanced tools allow you to apply Ordinary Least Squares Regression and Geographically Weighted Regression analysis techniques. This seminar covers the process for building a regression model and explores a typical regression analysis workflow.

The presenter discusses

  • When you should use regression analysis and what kinds of questions it can answer.
  • Characteristics of a properly specified Ordinary Least Squares model and how to interpret results.
  • How to use Geographically Weighted Regression to refine remediation strategies and inform policy.

Understanding Spatial Statistics in ArcGIS 9 [Recorded Training Seminar; 60 minutes]
Spatial statistics tools are exploratory tools that help you measure spatial processes, spatial distributions, and spatial relationships. There are many different types of spatial statistics, but they are all designed to examine spatial patterns and processes.

This training seminar introduces you to the spatial statistics tools included as core functionality with ArcGIS 9. The presenter demonstrates how the tools can easily identify the geographic center of a set of features, determine if a set of features is clustered or dispersed, find hot spots or spatial outliers, and other critical analysis functions.

The presenter discusses

  • An overview of spatial statistics.
  • Measuring geographic distributions.
  • Spatial autocorrelation.
  • Hot spot analysis.

Introduction to ArcGIS 9 Geostatistical Analyst [Online Self-Study Course; 3 hours]
With ArcGIS Geostatistical Analyst, GIS users can explore, visualize, and create sophisticated optimal prediction surfaces, as well as statistical surfaces of probability and standard error. This free course introduces some fundamental concepts of geostatistics and teaches how to create and compare interpolated surfaces.

Swine Flu Fear Spreads

In GIS, Science, Social Science, Spatial Analysis on April 28, 2009 at 9:39 am

As global media sensationalizes the story of swine flu, it’s a good time to take a deep breath and reflect upon how health scientists have successfully used geospatial technology to better understand and control infectious diseases.

Investigating Temperature Extremes in the United States

In Climate Change, ESRI, Education, Environmental Science, GIS, Science on April 28, 2009 at 9:32 am

409Over at the ESRI GIS Education Community Portal, Joseph Kerski has posted an ArcLesson to help intermediate-level/university undergraduate students learn more about what might cause temperature extremes. “In this activity, you will investigate temperature extremes in the USA for the month of January 2009. You will use GIS for your primary investigative tool and begin with 30 questions. What is the effect of ocean proximity, latitude, and altitude on daily extreme high and low temperatures?”

Quote of the Day

In Climate Change, Quotes, Science on April 28, 2009 at 9:08 am

“Truly surprising: Some in the business world are still skeptical of the science [of climate change]. From a practical business perspective, however, whether you believe is no longer relevant — your regulator does believe CO2 is dangerous. That means she is now required by the law to regulate CO2 emissions.”

– Truman Semans and Rebecca Lutzy, Endangerment and Dangerous Regulation, ClimateBiz.com

Exploring Water Resources: GIS Investigations for the Earth Sciences

In Books, ESRI, Environmental Science, GIS, Geography, Modeling, Science on April 28, 2009 at 7:40 am

water“Start using the technology you’ll need tomorrow, today! Exploring Water Resources: GIS Investigations for the Earth Sciences is a collection of investigation guides that let you tap into the power of ArcGIS software no matter your skill level. Use it to explore, manipulate, and analyze large data sets quickly and easily. And because this GIS textbook is full of study tools, it will come in handy during test time as well.”

Initiative in Spatial Structures in the Social Sciences

In Education, GIS, Geography, Social Science on April 27, 2009 at 12:09 pm

browngis_02-over“S4, as it is known on campus, is one of several initiatives through which Brown University is building new strengths as a research university. Brown has a core group of outstanding faculty who are taking seriously the impacts of spatial relations and contextual effects on social science issues. Through new faculty recruitments, investments in the research and teaching infrastructure, and outreach to researchers in such areas as community health and environmental change, the mission of S4 is to stimulate and support new work in this emerging interdisciplinary arena.”

Humboldt State University to Offer Resources Scholarships

In Education, Environmental Science, Geography on April 27, 2009 at 11:20 am

Humboldt State University’s Department of Forestry and Wildland Resources has received $144,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to fund $4,500 annual scholarships for new multicultural students starting in Fall 2009. Freshmen must apply by March 1, transfers by June 1; instructions for how to apply are at http://www.humboldt.edu/~wms/.

The initiative stems from HSU’s connection with the U.S. Forest Service Region Five’s Northern California Consortium, an environmental education, outreach, and recruitment program sponsored by the Forest Service to establish networks in Hispanic and other diverse communities. It is aimed at educating under-served rural communities about natural resources. Federal employment projections for diverse students are good in the fields of soils, range, and forestry.

“We hope to draw from community colleges throughout the western United States including WUE schools,” said Forestry and Wildland Professor Susan Edinger Marshall, referring to the Western Undergraduate Exchange program. Humboldt State accepts undergraduates from 14 eligible western states, offering major savings on regular out-of-state tuition.

The new scholarships will finance up to 12 transfer students majoring in forestry, Rangeland Resources Science or Wildland Soils.

Scholarships could assist six freshmen to 12 transfers or any combination in between, totaling funding for 24 student years at HSU.

Exploring the Ocean Environment: GIS Investigations for the Earth Sciences

In Books, ESRI, Environmental Science, GIS, Geography, Modeling, Science on April 27, 2009 at 11:14 am

ocean1“Explore, analyze, and elaborate on information you extract using ArcGIS software with Exploring the Ocean Environment: GIS Investigations for the Earth Sciences. This interactive investigation guide lets you tap the power of the ArcGIS software to explore, manipulate, and analyze large data sets. This guide emphasizes the visualization, analysis, and multimedia integration capabilities inherent to GIS. The GIS information has been preprocessed into maps and legends, and some procedures have been automated so you can focus on the science content.”

Geographic Information Systems and Environmental Modeling

In Books, Earth Systems Science, Environmental Science, GIS, Modeling on April 27, 2009 at 11:12 am

env_mod_clarke“This book provides readers with the most comprehensive and authoritative treatment of the topic available. Topics covered include modeling frameworks, paradigms and approaches; model development, calibration and validation; dynamic systems modeling and four-dimensional GIS; and more. Includes case studies in GIS/EM. This book is intended for readers interested in advanced Geographic Information Systems, Spatial Data Processing, or Environmental Modeling.”

Environmental Modelling with GIS and Remote Sensing (Geographic Information Systems Workshop)

In Books, Environmental Science, GIS, Imagery, Modeling, Science on April 23, 2009 at 7:09 am

env_mod_wkshp“This book derives from a training course run by ITC for professionals and managers in the environmental sciences, detailing the applications of remote sensing and GIS for environmental monitoring, modelling and assessment. It sets out current research results and provides operational methods for environmental mapping and monitoring.”

Technology’s Promise to Nature?

In Earth Systems Management on April 23, 2009 at 7:08 am

All Watched Over by Machines of Loving Grace
by Richard Brautigan

I like to think (and
the sooner the better!)
of a cybernetic meadow
where mammals and computers
live together in mutuality
programming harmony
like pure water
touching clear sky.

I like to think
(right now, please!)
of a cybernetic forest
filled with pines and electronics
where deer stroll peacefully
past computers
as if they were flowers
with spinning blossoms.

I like to think
(it has to be!)
of a cybernetic ecology
where we are free of our labors
and joined back to nature,
returned to our normal
brothers and sisters,
and all watched over
by machines of loving grace.

Integrating GIS with Bathymetric Data Management Software

In ESRI, Earth Systems Science, Environmental Science, GIS, Science, Visualization on April 22, 2009 at 1:41 pm

ivsESRI Supports Sounding Selection and Bathymetric Data Management through Partnership with IVS 3D

Software Companies Provide Efficient Workflow for Comprehensive Bathymetric Data Management

ESRI, the world’s leading geographic information system (GIS) technology producer, announces that Interactive Visualization Systems (IVS) 3D has joined its business partner program. IVS 3D is a leading vendor of interactive 3D visualization and analysis software for marine information. This partnership will benefit organizations with workflows that visualize and analyze bathymetric data for use in the maritime community including the defense, petroleum, environment, and hydrographic sectors.

“A tightly integrated solution between IVS 3D Fledermaus and ESRI ArcGIS is something our users have been requesting,” says Timothy Kearns, maritime deputy program manager, ESRI. “This partnership gives our companies the opportunity to work together, improving customer workflows and ensuring not only a seamless dataflow but a more efficient use of both technologies.”

The two companies are working toward the ability to read and write from IVS 3D’s Fledermaus suite of software directly into ESRI’s geodatabase, the common data storage and management framework for ArcGIS, ESRI’s comprehensive GIS software. Storing data in a geodatabase ensures that it is in a centralized location, maintaining integrity and consistency in the most efficient way in a multiuser environment. Fledermaus will be able to embrace a service-oriented architecture, one of the most powerful characteristics of ESRI enterprise GIS technology. Added benefits for ArcGIS users include the ability to perform sounding selection and surface modeling to international standards, as well as its support of a wide variety of hydrographic formats within ArcGIS.

“Partnering with ESRI gives our clients access to the most comprehensive suite of GIS software available,” says Lindsay Gee, chief executive officer, IVS 3D. “Our work together ensures that the mapping and charting needs of geoscientists, oceanographers, and hydrographers are met with an integrated solution that meets their needs from ship to shore.”

For more information on ESRI and how its GIS software is used in the nautical industry, contact Timothy Kearns at 909-793-2853, extension 1210; e-mail tkearns@esri.com, or visit www.esri.com/maritime. For more information on IVS 3D and how its visualization and analysis software is used in the nautical industry, contact info@ivs3d.com or visit www.ivs3d.com.

Journey of Mankind: The Peopling of the World

In Climate Change, Education, Science, Social Science, Visualization on April 22, 2009 at 12:50 pm

journey“The Bradshaw Foundation, in association with Stephen Oppenheimer, presents a virtual global journey of modern man over the last 160,000 years.  The map will show for the first time the interaction of migration and climate over this period.  We are the descendants of a few small groups of tropical Africans who united in the face of adversity, not only to the point of survival but to the development of a sophisticated social interaction and culture expressed through many forms.  Based on a synthesis of the mtDNA and Y chromosome evidence in archaeology, climatology, and fossil study, Stephen Oppenheimer has tracked the routes and timing of migration, placing it in context with ancient rock art around the world.”

Free Online Seminar: Regression Analysis Basics

In ESRI, GIS, Modeling, Statistics on April 22, 2009 at 12:21 pm

“Regression Analysis Basics in ArcGIS 9.3“

Complimentary Web Training Seminar from ESRI.

This seminar teaches regression analysis techniques and workflows to help explain the factors behind observed spatial patterns.

Exploring the Dynamic Earth: GIS Investigations for the Earth Sciences

In Books, ESRI, Earth Systems Science, Environmental Science, GIS, Modeling, Science on April 22, 2009 at 12:20 pm

dynamix-earth“Explore, analyze, and elaborate on information you extract using ArcGIS software with Exploring the Dynamic Earth: GIS Investigations for the Earth Sciences. This interactive investigation lets you tap the power of the ArcGIS software to explore, manipulate, and analyze large data sets. This guide emphasizes the visualization, analysis, and multimedia integration capabilities inherent to GIS. The GIS information has been preprocessed into maps and legends, and some procedures have been automated so you can focus on the science content.”

Analysis of Competing Hypotheses (ACH): Free Download from PARC

In Modeling, Science on April 22, 2009 at 12:19 pm

ach-logo“Analysis of Competing Hypotheses (ACH) is a simple model for how to think about a complex problem when the available information is incomplete or ambiguous, as typically happens in intelligence analysis. The software downloadable here takes an analyst through a process for making a well-reasoned, analytical judgment. It is particularly useful for issues that require careful weighing of alternative explanations of what has happened, is happening, or is likely to happen in the future. It helps the analyst overcome, or at least minimize, some of the cognitive limitations that make prescient intelligence analysis so difficult. ACH is grounded in basic insights from cognitive psychology, decision analysis, and the scientific method. It helps analysts protect themselves from avoidable error, and improves their chances of making a correct judgment.”

Online Training: Creating and Analyzing Surfaces

In ESRI, GIS, Modeling on April 22, 2009 at 10:50 am

“Creating and Analyzing Surfaces Using ArcGIS Spatial Analyst“

Instructor-Led Virtual Classroom Course from ESRI

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time (U.S. & Canada)

This course teaches how to use advanced ArcGIS Spatial Analyst tools to model surfaces, evaluate results, and create a variety of maps for informed decision making.

Exploring Tropical Cyclones: GIS Investigations for the Earth Sciences

In Books, ESRI, Earth Systems Science, Environmental Science, GIS, Modeling, Science, Visualization on April 22, 2009 at 7:53 am

cyclones“Explore, analyze, and elaborate on information you extract using ArcGIS software with Exploring Tropical Cyclones: GIS Investigations for the Earth Sciences. This interactive guides lets you tap the power of the ArcGIS software to explore, manipulate, and analyze large data sets. The guide emphasizes the visualization, analysis, and multimedia integration capabilities inherent to GIS. The GIS information has been preprocessed into maps and legends, and some procedures have been automated so you can focus on the science content.”

GIS Helps Identify Link between Pesticide Exposure and Parkinson’s Disease

In Earth Systems Science, GIS, Science on April 22, 2009 at 7:48 am

…from ScienceCentric.com,

“…Ritz, Costello and colleague Myles Cockburn from the University of Southern California, developed a geographic information system-based tool that estimated human exposure to pesticides applied to agricultural crops. This GIS tool combined land-use maps and pesticide-use reporting data from the state of California. Each pesticide-use record includes the name of the pesticide’s active ingredient, the amount applied, the crop, the acreage of the field, the application method and the date of application.”

Highland Library and Environmental Learning Center Adds GIS Kiosk

In Education, Environmental Science, GIS on April 22, 2009 at 7:42 am

highland1Official Launch Scheduled for Earth Day on April 22

Among the many displays and interactive activities at the new Sam J. Racadio Library and Environmental Learning Center in Highland, California, is a geographic information system (GIS) kiosk. Recently installed by ESRI, the kiosk uses ArcReader and ArcGIS Online software to promote the use of maps for environmental purposes by those doing research or who are simply curious about a particular place.

Commenting on what is available at the kiosk, Ray Carnes, ESRI technical marketing specialist, says, “Data about the positive impacts that people are having on the environment are showcased through a variety of maps, which range in scale from the library itself to the entire planet. For example, the Highland city map shows environmentally sensitive businesses and community resources. United States maps show the locations and characteristics of the country’s top 10 most sustainable cities, and the Map of the Global Human Footprint illustrates the human impact on every square kilometer on earth.”

The data necessary to create these maps comes from a variety of sources including the County of San Bernardino, ESRI, SustainLane.com, Readers Digest, and the Wildlife Conservation Society.

Jessica Sutorus, director of the Environmental Learning Center, says, “The center provides resources, activities, materials, and programs to improve environmental literacy. Patrons are using it to learn more about the impact they, their community, and others, are having on the environment, and the implementation of the GIS kiosk is a big part of this educational process.”

Third International Conference on Geospatial Semantics (GeoS 2009)

In Conferences, GIS, Modeling on April 22, 2009 at 7:36 am

logo_geos2009Geospatial semantics is an emerging research theme in the domain of geographic information systems and spatial databases. The previous editions of the conference – GeoS 2005 and GeoS 2007 in late November (Mexico City, Mexico) www.geosco.org were highly successful. We have received about 100 submissions, from which 30 regular and 8 short articles have been published in Volume 3799 and Volume 4853 of the Lecture Notes in Computer Science respectively. People from 28 countries and 5 continents have attended the GeoS conferences.

The third edition GeoS 2009 www.geosco.org aims at providing a forum for the exchange of state-of-the-art research results in the areas of modeling and processing of geospatial semantics. Geospatial semantics play an important role for next-generation spatial databases and geographic information systems, as well as specialized geospatial web services. This conference traditionally brings together researchers whose expertise will address issues such as:

  • Theories for geospatial semantic information
  • Formal representations of geospatial data
  • Models and languages for geoontologies
  • Alignment and integration of geoontologies
  • Integration of semantics into spatial query processing
  • Spatial information retrieval
  • Ontology-driven GIS
  • Geospatial Semantic Web
  • Multicultural aspects of spatial knowledge
  • Cognitive aspects of geospatial semantics
  • Measuring semantic similarity between spatial datasets
  • Representing context for geospatial semantic information
  • Semantic Sensor Web
  • Ontology-based visualization of geospatial data
  • Conceptual models of dynamic geospatial environments
  • Personalization of geospatial semantic services

Publication of the proceedings in Lecture Notes in Computer Science.

Advances in GIScience Research Sessions at the 2009 ESRI International User Conference

In Conferences, GIS, GIScience, Geography, Science on April 21, 2009 at 9:53 am

uc20091Join leaders in GIScience research in this special research symposium at the 2009 ESRI International User Conference.  Papers will be published in a special issue of the journal Transactions in GIS, available at the session.

Tuesday, 14 July 2009

Room 29 C, San Diego Convention Center, San Diego, California USA

8:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. – Advances in GIScience: Research Session 1
10:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – Advances in GIScience: Research Session 2
1:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. – Advances in GIScience: Research Session 3

ESRI UC web site

GIS for Species Modeling Session at the 2009 ESRI International User Conference

In Conferences, ESRI, Environmental Science, GIS, Geography, Modeling, Science, Spatial Analysis on April 21, 2009 at 9:42 am

uc2009Date/Time:
10:15 a.m.  – 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, 14 July 2009

Location:
Room 32 B, San Diego Convention Center, San Diego, California USA

Presenter(s):
Lisa LaCivita (GMU), Tony McKinney (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), Dawn Lemke (Alabama A&M University)

Description:
GIS is increasingly important for advanced scientific techniques involving species survival and management, with predictive models for understanding and managing ecosystems. These papers show how GIS is being used at the cutting edge of scientific and analytical techniques.

Papers:

Geo-referencing Primary Type Mollusks for the Smithsonian Institution
Lisa LaCivita, GMU

This unique opportunity to contribute to science, contains great geography lessons, context and complexities. What are best practices for geo-referencing? Can they be applied to legacy data? Why geo-reference Primary Type Mollusks and what is involved? How does our current suite of techno-tools change the dynamic of geo-referencing? Can projects of this type be brought to the “classroom” to further ecological and geographic education? The presenter believes that there exists tremendous potential for supporting educational initiatives, such as STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and SOL (standards of learning), by utilizing the Smithsonian’s collections. This session will explain the geo-referencing initiative, explore the possibilities and seek dialogue and involvement from the GIS community.

Monitoring a Rare Desert Sand Dune Species: A Success Story
Tony McKinney, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

We utilized ArcInfo and ArcMAP for project design and analysis and GPS for field mapping and navigation to assess the density, abundance, and distribution of Peirson’s milk-vetch (Astragalus magdalenae var. peirsonii), a threatened plant in the Algodones Dunes of Imperial County, California, that has been the focus of Dune Use versus Dune Preservation litigation for the past few years. Our focus was to asses the status of this plant which has a life history that overlaps peak OHV use in the dunes, and to use this information to build a management program covering the dunes. We sampled 123,488 cells as the base to select 750 seed bank cells. Sample plots were re-visited to predict distribution and trend analysis. We present our overall results, discuss the importance of GPS to collect field data in this barren landscape, and the utility of spatial analysis to support land management decisions.

Integrating GIS and Statistical Modeling in Assessing Invasive Plants
Dawn Lemke, Alabama A&M University
Jennifer Brown , Biomathematics Research Centre, Canterbury UniversityPrivate Bag 4800
Philip Hulme , National Centre for Advanced Bio-Protection Technologies, Lincoln University
Wubishet Tadesse , Alabama A&M University

As our impacts on the landscape changes the composition of ‘natural’ areas, it is important that we integrate spatial technology to assist in active management. This research explores the integration of GIS and remote sensing with statistical analysis to assist in species distribution modeling. It is applicable to both native and non native communities and has the ability to assist land managers in identifying both areas of importance and areas of threat. It has been suggested that Maximum Entropy models can better assess possible species distribution, while logistic regression is more representative of the current species distribution. This presentation discusses the application of these models in association with GIS in application to modeling non native species in the Cumberland Plateau and Mountain Region.

ESRI UC web site

The GEOSS GEOportal

In Climate Change, ESRI, Earth Systems Science, Environmental Science, GIS, Geography, Science, Visualization on April 16, 2009 at 10:38 am

image_galleryThe Group on Earth Observations (GEO), which is coordinating efforts to build a Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS), operates a portal (GEOportal) which provides a single Internet access point for data, imagery, and analytical software packages covering the entire Earth.

“The GEOportal provides an entry point to access Earth Observation information and services. It will connect to a system of existing portals, addressing the GEO Societal Benefit Areas globally and provide national to regional perspective to achieve synergy and leverage.

“Derived from ESA’s Earth Observation Community Portal www.eoportal.org. this proposed contribution to the GEOportal will put the accent on remote sensing, geospatial-static and in-situ data, information and services.

“Maps, forecasts and other decision support tools, derived from, among others, satellite imagery and in situ observations play an important role in the work of decision makers, sustainable development planners and humanitarian and emergency managers in need of quick, reliable and up-to-date user-friendly cartographic products as a basis for planning and monitoring their activities.”

Computer Derives Natural Laws from Raw Data

In Modeling, Science on April 16, 2009 at 9:41 am

Interesting article in ChronicleOnline at Cornell University…

“If Isaac Newton had had access to a supercomputer, he’d have had it watch apples fall and let it figure out what that meant. But the computer would have needed to run an algorithm developed by Cornell researchers that can derive natural laws from observed data.”

CODIST-Geo Meeting in Ethiopia, 28 April to 01 May 2009

In Conferences, Education, GIS, Science on April 14, 2009 at 8:25 am

From the GIS in Education blog…

“The first session of the Committee on Development Information Science and Technology (CODIST-I) will take place from 28 April to 1 May 2009 at the United Nations Conference Centre Addis Ababa, (UNCC-AA) Ethiopia.

“CODIST is one of the seven subsidiary bodies of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) composed of senior officials and experts from member States who meet on a biennial basis. The theme for CODIST-I is Scientific Development, Innovation and the Knowledge Economy.

“Sub Committee on Geoinformation – CODIST-Geo

“With CODIST placing emphasis on the information society, CODIST-Geo, treats mapping and related activities as data collection and processing activities in the overall information management continuum.”

GeoSensor Networks 2009: Submission Deadline Extended to 15 April 2009

In Conferences, GIS, Science on April 11, 2009 at 7:02 am

13 to 14 July 2009
Oxford, UK

“Geosensor networks shift the traditional centralized paradigm of monitoring a geographical area from the macroscale to the microscale, by using distributed sensors to measure variables of interest (such as environmental, biological and chemical variables, seismic activity and geolocated videofeeds). Whilst having the ability to provide data with unparalleled temporal and spatial resolution, geosensor networks have pushed the frontiers of traditional GIS research into the realms of computer science, introducing issues such as data fusion, geolocated queries, energy efficient data collection and data mining and interpretation. The incorporation of mobile devices into these networks allows data acquisition to be undertaken on a spatially varying sampling resolution, introducing new research avenues such as co-operative sensing and dynamic coverage. Furthermore, geosensor networks are not only constrained to passively monitor a region, through actuators, they also have the ability to influence or modify their environment.

“Research in geosensor networks spans multiple fields, ranging from strategies for intelligent data acquisition to virtual reality interactions with environmental dynamics. Of particular interest are applications of geosensor networks, such as environmental monitoring, precision agriculture, early warning systems and wildlife tracking. This workshop seeks to address these issues, by bringing together leading experts in a two day forum to present novel research and exchange ideas relating to the state of the art and its future directions. Real world results are particularly welcomed, as are reports of interesting or challenging deployments.”

Quote of the Day

In Environmental Science, GIS, Quotes on April 10, 2009 at 7:34 am

“Maps are like campfires – everyone gathers around them, because they allow people to understand complex issues at a glance, and find agreement about how to help the land.”
–Sonoma Ecology Center, GIS/IS Program Web Site

Storymapping

In GIS, Social Science on April 10, 2009 at 7:04 am

What is “storymapping”?  On the Qualitative Research Cafe blog, Sandra Mathison writes that “Using a combination of GIS technology and social science, there are strategies being developed to connect narrative to place.”

Nicole Wayant Announced as 2009 Winner of the ASPRS Abraham Anson Memorial Scholarship

In Education, GIS, Imagery, Science on April 7, 2009 at 10:11 am

Nicole Wayant is the first winner of the Abraham Anson Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2008. The purpose of the award is to encourage undergraduate students currently enrolled or intending to enroll in a U.S. college or university who have an exceptional interest in pursuing scientific research or education in geospatial science or technology related to photogrammetry, remote sensing, surveying and mapping to enter a professional field where they can use the knowledge of this discipline to excel in their profession. This annual scholarship will consist of a certificate and a check in the amount of $1,000 and a one-year student membership (new or renewal) in the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS).

Wayant is a senior at Kansas State University (KSU), studying for her BS in Geography and her BS in Mathematics. She has received several academic honors and awards for her scholastic achievements. She has also worked on several research projects at the university, notably, on a project entitled “Spatial-temporal Analysis of Malaria in Paraguay: Correlating Malaria and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index.” She expects to graduate in May 2009 and intend to pursue further studies in a graduate program in remote sensing.

For over six decades, Lt. Col. Abraham Anson, affectionately known as Abe, devoted a considerable period of his life to the cause of the Society in various forums and forms, as an author of many articles, Associate Editor of the Manual of Color Aerial Photography and the first edition of the Manual of Remote Sensing, and the editor of the Proceedings of the Aerial Photography Workshop for the Plant Sciences. He served on the Society and the Potomac Region Boards and numerous committees. After his retirement, Anson assumed the task of compiling the history of the ASPRS and the Potomac Region from its founding days, working countless hours with great dedication for several years.

ASPRS Announces Sergio Bernardes as 2009 Colwell Fellowship Winner

In Climate Change, Environmental Science, GIS, Imagery, Modeling, Science on April 7, 2009 at 10:07 am

The Robert N. Colwell Memorial Fellowship for 2009 was awarded to Sergio Bernardes.  He is a doctoral candidate at the University of Georgia (UGA) where he expects to earn a PhD in Geography in 2010.

This award was presented by the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) through the ASPRS Foundation from funds donated by students, associates, colleagues and friends of Robert N. Colwell. The award consists of a grant in the amount of $5,000, a certificate, and a one-year student or associate membership (new or renewal) in ASPRS. The presentation of the award took place at the ASPRS 2009 Annual Conference held in Baltimore, Maryland in March.

The Colwell award was established in 2006 to encourage and commend college/university graduate students or post-doctoral researchers who display exceptional interest, desire, ability and aptitude in the field of remote sensing or other related geospatial information technologies, and who have a special interest in developing practical uses of these technologies.

Bernardes’ research involves multi-temporal and multi-sensor analyses of biophysical parameters of vegetation in the Brazilian Amazon forest and savanna transition areas. His research on modeling of carbon sources and sinks, understanding human impacts on Brazilian Amazon forests and savanna, and advancing remote sensing image processing techniques will provide an important contribution to global change monitoring and modeling. Bernardes’ research program is consistent with the emphasis on practical applications of remote sensing to natural resources that characterized the career of Dr. Colwell, in whose memory this Fellowship is awarded.

Bernardes earned a BS degree in Agricultural Engineering from Vicossa Federal University, Brazil in 1991 and an MS degree in Remote Sensing from the Brazilian National Institute for Space Research in 1996.  He held a highly competitive university-wide Graduate School Award for two years at the UGA and received the ASPRS GeoEye Award and other UGA graduate awards in 2008.

Citizen Science Opportunity: The USA National Phenology Network

In Citizen Science, Climate Change, Education, Environmental Science on April 7, 2009 at 10:04 am

logoThe USA National Phenology Network brings together citizen scientists, government agencies, non-profit groups, educators, and students of all ages to monitor the impacts of climate change on plants and animals in the United States. The network harnesses the power of people and the Internet to collect and share information, providing researchers with far more data than they could collect alone.

2009 Boeing Award for Best Paper in Image Analysis and Interpretation Announced by ASPRS

In Environmental Science, GIS, Science on April 7, 2009 at 9:19 am

The American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) Boeing Award Selection Committee recently announced the winners of this year’s Boeing Award for Best Paper in Image Analysis and Interpretation.

The winners are Robert A. Chastain, Jr., Matthew A. Struckhoff, Hong S. He, and David R. Larsen for “Mapping Vegetation Communities Using Statistical Data Fusion in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri, USA.” PE&RS 74, (2), 247-264.

Presentation of this award took place in March during the ASPRS 2009 Annual Conference in Baltimore, Maryland. The award is presented by ASPRS through the ASPRS Foundation, with funding provided by Boeing I&SS Mission Systems. The purpose of the award is to stimulate development and recognize achievement in image interpretation and analysis through special acknowledgment of superior publications in the field. The award consists of a presentation plaque provided by Boeing and cash award of $500.

Established in 1965 as the Autometric Award, this grant recognizes development and achievement in the field of photographic interpretation through special acknowledgment of superior publications on the various aspects of image analysis and interpretation.

Design is the Problem: The Future of Design Must be Sustainable

In Books, Design, GIS on April 7, 2009 at 8:26 am

designproblemThe theme of the 2009 ESRI International User Conference is “GIS: Designing Our Future.”  Until then, here’s a neat book about design.

On Being a Scientist: Setting the Standard for Ethics in Science

In Books, Science on April 1, 2009 at 12:02 pm

0309119707National Academies Press recently released the third edition of On Being a Scientist, which sets the standard for ethics in science.

“The scientific research enterprise is built on a foundation of trust. Scientists trust that the results reported by others are valid. Society trusts that the results of research reflect an honest attempt by scientists to describe the world accurately and without bias. But this trust will endure only if the scientific community devotes itself to exemplifying and transmitting the values associated with ethical scientific conduct.

“On Being a Scientist was designed to supplement the informal lessons in ethics provided by research supervisors and mentors. The book describes the ethical foundations of scientific practices and some of the personal and professional issues that researchers encounter in their work. It applies to all forms of research–whether in academic, industrial, or governmental settings-and to all scientific disciplines.

“This third edition of On Being a Scientist reflects developments since the publication of the original edition in 1989 and a second edition in 1995. A continuing feature of this edition is the inclusion of a number of hypothetical scenarios offering guidance in thinking about and discussing these scenarios.

“On Being a Scientist is aimed primarily at graduate students and beginning researchers, but its lessons apply to all scientists at all stages of their scientific careers.”