Utilization of Geographic Information System for Research, Management, and Education in the Natural Resources Management Department at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

Author

David In Yun, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow

DOI: https://doi.org/10.15368/theses.2011.7
Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/449

Date of Award

2-2011

Degree Name

MS in Forestry Sciences

Department/Program

Natural Resources Management

College

College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences

Advisor

Douglas Piirto

Advisor College

College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences

Abstract

Geographic Information System (GIS) is “an organized collection of computer hardware, software, geographic data, and personnel designed to efficiently capture, store, update, manipulate, analyze, and display all forms of geographically referenced information” (ESRI, 1997a). The Natural Resources Management Department at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, California, hereafter NRM, was one of the early users of GIS technology. Although GIS was primarily used as an educational tool, it was also used for cataloging and displaying resource information for management planning and research projects. As the computing technology advanced, GIS became more powerful and easier to use. NRM faculty and students realized that GIS is the best tool to manage spatial information. In addition, GIS can also manage temporal data. While we are proud of past achievements using GIS, its future prospects for managing time and space information promise even more exciting possibilities and tangible benefits. This scholarly project is a compilation of GIS achievements in NRM.