Geographic Information System
Geographic information system (GIS) is a system of computer hardware, software, data, and people designed to provide information about a place.
The information can be thought of as existing in “layers” that work together to give a complete picture of that place, including the interaction of many factors that define that place. The common element of the data is its address. By using a GIS, a person can access such seemingly disparate data pertaining to that place, such as soil type, quality of groundwater, proximity to airports or highways, etc. GIS is being used by government, industry and the military to make complex data understandable to policy makers, planners and interested citizens.
USES OF GIS
There are numerous uses for GIS including creating maps, site selection, emergency response planning, simulating environmental effects and just about anything that is related to location.
NECOG USES OF GIS
NECOG contracts with the South Dakota Department of Transportation to maintain a public road inventory for its twelve counties. NECOG utilizes the Global Positioning System (GPS) to collect centerline information and other data for all State, County, City, and Township road in the district. The data is updated annually and is archived with the SDDOT in an ArcInfo coverage format.
NECOG also uses Geographic Information System (GIS) to produce various types of maps. For example, land use and zoning maps are created for local governments in conjunction with their comprehensive plans. Additional informational maps can be produced utilizing existing data layers currently available.
GIS services are considered on a case by case basis to determine if NECOG has the capabilities to provide the service under a separate contract.
Many GIS data layers exist and are easily accessed for use. Listed below are just a few of the more common layers that are available.
Road Centerlines
Aerial Photos (DOQQs)
USGS Topographic Maps
Lakes and Streams
National Wetlands
Census Tracts and Block Groups
City, County and Township boundary information
Railroads