Applications of GIS
A Geographic Information System is a computer system for storing, capturing, analyzing, querying, and displaying data that has been geographically referenced. The data which has been geographically referenced describes both the characteristics and locations of spatial features. It is also referred to as geospatial data. The history of GIS is about 4 decades.
Websites such as map blast, mapquest provide fast and simple maps. The users can type in points of interest and location addresses on these maps to obtain the desired result, for example, data about nearby churches and schools.
The following are the applications of GIS.
Wetland Mapping
During dry periods, wetlands retain water and contribute to a healthy environment, thus keeping the water table relatively stable and high. They act to reduce flood levels during the flooding and trap attached nutrients and suspended solids. GIS mapping software provides alternatives for wetland mapping and quickly designs projects for the conservation of wetland with the assistance of GIS. A combination of Remote Sensing data aids the completion of wetland mapping on a different scale. Using GIS map spices can use the information to create a wetland digital data bank.
Management of Natural Resources
Through the help of GIS software applications, the water, agricultural, and forest resources can be well managed and maintained. Foresters can easily monitor forest conditions. Agricultural land includes monitoring crop rotation, managing crop yield, etc. Water is one of the most vital constituents of the environment. the professional can analyze the geographical distribution of water resources using GIS. They are related to each other, i.e., tree canopy stores about 215,000 tons of carbon, and forest cover lowers the stormwater runoff. GIS is also applied in aforestation.
Soil Mapping
This Map provides resourceful information about a particular area. It helps in understanding the suitability of soil for different land-use activities. It is vital for the prevention of environmental deterioration related to the inappropriate use of land. GIS aids in identifying types of soil in an area and clearly describe soil boundaries. It is used for the classification and identification of soil. Farmers in advanced countries widely use soil mapping to earn maximum yield and retain soil nutrients.
The other uses include transport applications, emergency, crime analysis records management, planning, land market analysis.
The combination of GIS software with wireless technology, a global positioning system (GPS), and the internet has led to new and amazing applications. In-vehicle navigation system, vehicle drivers can locate the shortest possible routes.
The rise in demand for spatial data technology can only be satisfied with the use of computers. GIS is a representation of the simplified perception of the earth.
A GIS, unlike the traditional paper maps, can offer detailed information of features such as streams, buildings, roads, etc. In addition, computers can quickly analyze and search the features of a map and their attributes. GIS cannot get these advantages from traditional maps.
Lines, points, and areas represent all the data objects. Each of the spatial data has an intrinsic coordinate value.