Along with other technologies, like GPS and high-speed computer systems, GIS is a cost effective and responsible way to manage forestlands. GIS stands for Geographic Information System. GIS basically is a conglomerate of data all rolled up into a manageable, efficient database of useful information. The data has two main parts, actual visible shapes, for example topographic maps, Digital Ortho Quarter Quadrangles, road and stream systems, parcel boundaries, cadastral systems, and attribute data. Attribute data is information such as name, address, acreage, deed book and page number, etc., and is the key to the upkeep and use of a GIS. Well-maintained attribute data can save time in the long run and give you better results.

As forest managers, GIS plays a major role in performing our duties. Each parcel or tract that we manage is added to the GIS database. After adding the tract or tracts to the GIS, using a digital topographic map or digital aerial photo as a base map, we can determine areas that may be used for access points, areas of inoperability, slope and aspect of the tract, acreage, and then add a cruise grid, all automatically. A map layout can then be produced. The layout will have a view showing the tract and cruise grid laid out across a topographic map, north arrow depicting true north, scale bar showing exact scale, and a legend describing all the data layers used within the GIS view. The map, after it is printed, can be used in the field when cruising. Any discrepancies in the boundary lines or information taken when delineating stand lines can be keep on the cruise map and immediately amended in the GIS. The tract can be broken into stands and separate management can be implemented directly to each, with attribute data for each stand stored in the database file that accompanies the shape file for the tract.

These functions may be very similar to some other software programs such as AutoCad, but a GIS also has an ability to perform Spatial Analyses, or to analyze real world data. This is what sets GIS apart from other mapping systems. Existing data layers can be overlaid to create new useful information. For example, if you have flood zone data along with the soil types and slope and aspect data, you could overlay the layers to determine the best area to construct a haul road.

A GIS can give the landowner the ability to properly manage his/her property. The most overlooked function of a GIS is the mapping ability. Large-scale maps can be created simply and plotted with relative ease. These maps can include tabular data also, usually to the side, which can give detailed cruise information such as trees per acre, acreage per stand, and volume per acre.

Queries can also be made to gain information that would take many hours using the traditional method. If a utility company maintains a GIS that stores information about utility poles, and wanted to see the location of all of those poles overlaid on a topographic map, this would be a relatively simple matter. A forest landowner that used a GPS receiver to collect data on all of his/her forest roads would be able to quickly print out a map with all usable roadways.

GIS is a priceless tool in today's management world. Regardless of what you manage; real estate, utilities, emergency services or timberland, Landmark Forestry can compliment your efforts with all of the Geographical Information that you would need.