Mapping & Geographic Information System (GIS)
Mapping is an intregal part of any good plan. Whether maps are used to show patterns, expose problems or create solutions, maps can provide a visual understanding of geographic conditions to better enhance understanding.
In Hazard Mitigation Planning, maps display the location of wildfires and other historic hazardous events in order to show the "danger zones" within a community. Structures in the Flood Zone, homes in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) and others areas of the community that present a high risk for damage to life and property are clearly defined using GIS mapping. In addition, the Critical Infrastructure and Key Resources (CIKR) are mapped to indicate their risk due to hazards; the destruction some Critical Infrastructure could present a hazard of its own.
In Emergency Operations Planning, maps are generally used to display Evacuation Routes and Emergency Helicopter Landing Zones as well as facilities that are key to the response effort. These facilities may include the fire and police stations, the town offices, primary and secondary shelters and the primary and secondary Emergency Operations Center (EOC).
Other mapping projects are also helpful to communities and to individuals alike. Thematic maps showing wetlands, soils, conservation easements, zoning, land use, safe routes to school and census data are just some of the mapping projects provided by Mapping and Planning Solutions.
Lastly, with a passion for GIS and its capabilities, Mapping and Planning Solutions will work with local community leaders and individuals to teach the basics of GIS so that others can begin to learn the great potential of this software. Getting started with any new software can be difficult, but with a good set of basic skills, learning can be more fulfilling.
Check back often to see updates!
