Geographic Information Systems at the Museum

A Geographic Information System (GIS) captures, integrates, analyzes and displays a variety of data related to positions on the Earth’s surface. GIS plays an important role in the work of the Center for Conservation & Biodiversity.

This powerful data tool has allowed Natural Areas Division and Botany Department staff to map the natural features of Museum preserves and document the precise locations of rare plants and trees.

Vertebrate Zoology, Entomology, Geology and Archaeology department personnel also regularly use this application.

The Natural Areas Division has been using GIS since 1995. That year, it purchased its first Global Positioning System (GPS) unit, a Trimble ProXL with a TDC1. GPS is hardware and software designed to communicate with satellites to determine ground location.

In 2005, the division upgraded its GIS software and purchased two additional GPS units (Trimble GeoXTs). That same year, the division created a GIS Specialist position to implement and oversee a more expansive program.

For More Information

Contact GIS & Stewardship Specialist Garrett Ormiston at (216) 231-4600, ext. 33525, or gormisto@cmnh.org.