Geographic Information Systems (GIS) MAPPING
What is GIS?
Geographical
Information Systems is a computer based combination of geographical maps
and information usefully displayed on and analyzed with maps. A map of
the population density of the earth or New York is more vivid than a
table of such information. A map showing all wetlands, rivers, ponds,
lakes and streams makes obvious the nature and availability of water
resources. A map of school or business locations with population
statistics demonstrates the need for and optimum location of additional
ones. Tax Maps are being provided using GIS.
New York State Geographical Information System
is a
clearing house for GIS data and information for the state of New York.
This link provides mapping information for administrative boundaries,
fresh waters, wetlands, roads, railroads and more. Maps may be displayed
for 59-mile widths down to 0.05-mile widths (264 feet).
To get started click
on the site above. Then select Columbia County on the map
of New York. Select View Orthoimagery on the left. Then
select ZOOM IN from the tool bar on the left and zoom in to
smaller map widths. Building locations are marked on maps with 2.0-mile
width or less. Orthoimages are available on maps with 1.0-mile widths or
less. The tool bar provides a measuring tool, zooming, and other aids.
Try locating a building or house you are familiar with as an exercise in
the use of GIS.
Different
informational maps are selected from Map Levels.
As Copake, Columbia
County and New York State improve these systems, additional aids will
become available.
Plot maps and Tax
maps are currently in use by
Greene County
Interactive GIS Map for example.
(Click on ACCEPT and proceed.) The Town of
Amherst, New York
provides an extensive use of this technology. (Use the GENERAL MAPPING
box at the upper right to proceed.) For example, almost 50 parameters
are given for each parcel in the town. Patience is required for
accessing these maps if you have a dial-up system.
Additional
information is also provided by
Cornell University Geospatial Information Repository (CUGIR).
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