Developing a Natural Resource Database for Georgraphic Information System

by Hassouna, Khaled M.

Geographic information systems ( GIS ) are an effective tool for land management. By studying the land formations and land cover of a site, much information about the tree and animal species inhabiting a site can be estimated. The managers of public or private lands may find the concept of a multi-layer analysis of their land useful in discriminating locations based on their many characteristics. I created a database of a small area with no previously specified objective. I produced a group of map layers emphasizing the methodology and the ability of making any number of overlays or combinations of layers. I estimated the time and cost involved in producing these layers. I produced layers of: elevation, slope, aspect, watershed-depression, watershed-flow direction, watershed-streams, and roads. I created a group of categorized data layers: elevation, slope, aspect, erosive slope, watershed-flow accumulation, buffered roads, and buffered streams. I made some combinations of different layers explaining the potential uses of such combination. I used the work of my graduate colleagues to illustrate the importance of such work when combined in natural resources management. Combinations were made of: forest cover, average temperature, solar radiation, and slope position.