A GIS consists of a database, map information, and a computer-based link between them. It is in essence a computer-based tool for mapping and analyzing places and events that have this geographic/spatial component. Since an overwhelming majority of data used in everyday work has a geographic/spatial component (i.e. an address, or a latitude/longitude coordinate), almost all human activity and natural phenomena can be studied using a GIS.
GIS technology integrates common database operations such as query and statistical analysis with the visual and geographic benefits offered by maps. These abilities distinguish GIS from other information systems and graphics software. The analytical component of GIS makes it a valuable tool in public and private enterprises for planning strategies, explaining events, and modeling future events.
GIS in Ontario County:The Ontario County Planning & Research Department has maintained a GIS since the early 1990's. The Planning and Research Department has built a strong foundation for creating a Enterprise GIS. In January 2001 the county completed a GIS Needs Assessment which studied current GIS capacities, and needs as well as future requirements.
Currently Planning & Research Department offers GIS Services to its Municipalities and other County Agencies. Currently the Planning Department maintains GIS Data in both ArcView and Atlas GIS formats.
The Department's Countywide coverages includes:
- Tax parcel Boundaries
- Street Center Lines
- Municipal Boundaries
- Census Tracts & Block Groups
- NYS DEC Regulated Wetlands
- FEMA Floodplains
- General Geology
- Hydrological Features
- Soils Classifications (Partial Coverage)
- USGS Digital Elevation Models (Grids)
- USGS Topological Quadrangle Maps (Raster)
- NYS DOT Quadrangle Maps (Raster)
For more information about GIS please see the training section of this web site under GIS
Page Last Updated On: Tuesday, December 20, 2011