What is GIS?

GIS is a map-based technique that uses computer graphics to combine a map with other databases (such as land use, soil type, vegetation, etc) to create "geographic information systems" or GIS for short.

GIS layers

The method is employed to display and analyze spatial data which are tied to a relational database. This connection is what gives GIS its power: maps can be drawn from the database and data can be referenced from the maps. When a database is updated, the associated map can be dynamically updated as well. GIS databases include a wide variety of information: geographic, social, political, environmental, and demographic.

GIS uses layers, called "themes," to overlay different types of information, much as some physical maps use mylar overlays to add tiers of information to a geographic background. Each theme represents a category of information, such as forest cover or trails or structures. As with mylar maps, the layers which are underneath remain visible while additional themes are placed above.

Objectives of the Ongoing Cloudbridge GIS Studies

Map boundaries and major landmarks of Cloudbridge
Create a layer or theme database containing contour lines based on existing topographical map
Create a theme database of trails, rivers and streams
Create a theme database of the perimeters of significant vegetative areas
Create a theme database of the perimeters of the reforestation project sub-areas
Create a theme database of the habitat recovery study
Create a theme database of soil types and conditions
Assemble data in GIS-compatible format on flora and fauna inventories, including trees, plants, and birds.
Create data layers that can demonstrate distribution of inventoried flora and fauna
Trace and map changes over time of inventoried flora and fauna

Results

John Tingerthal has developed GIS maps of Cloudbridge that incorporate the results of several studies, including biomonitoring, treemonitoring and vegetative cover. The following illustrate three of the major results -- contour maps and vegetative cover, and the trails used by visitors. These and other mappings are stored as "shape files" for use with the Arcview series of GIS software. Click on the images for larger views.

Map 1. Elevation contours.

Map 2. Vegetative cover.

Map 3. Trails.

The results on vegetation are based on the 2006 Land Use Study by Sebastian Culbreth. All the other data have been gathered by John Tingerthal with additional work done by Jessica Schwartz, Tom Gode, and others.

Interested in doing research at Cloudbridge?
Reseachers must bring independent funding for their projects, including travel and living expenses. Send us some information about your research qualifications, what you wish to study, and when you can come. If your project is accepted, we'll assist in finding accommodation and provide access to the reserve. We'll also publish the results of the research on the Cloudbridge website. To discuss your ideas, contact to Ian & Genevieve Giddy (see the contact page).