The LouisianaMAP Geospatial Portal

Transcription

1 The LouisianaMAP Geospatial Portal A White Paper for the Louisiana Geographic Information Systems Council (LGISC) LGISC-WP DRAFT LA Geographic Information Center E313 Howe-Russell Geoscience Complex Louisiana State University Baton Rouge, LA 70803

2 The LouisianaMAP Geospatial Portal An LGISC White Paper By Joshua Kent, Data Manager Louisiana Geographic Information Center (LAGIC) Contents Table of Figures...iii Executive Summary... iv Introduction... 1 Background... 1 What is LouisianaMAP?... 2 Benefits... 2 Advantages... 3 Clients & Users... 3 LouisianaMAP Infrastructure... 4 Internet Technology... 4 Clearinghouse Functionality... 5 Interoperability... 6 LouisianaMAP Services... 7 Goals... 7 Objectives... 7 Customized Interface... 8 Data... 9 Internet Client Services... 9 Web Development Services Geospatial Data User Services Long-term Vision Louisiana s I-Team Initiative Framework Data Standards Certification Enhancing Portal Functions and Services Meeting Louisiana s Needs for the future User Feedback LouisianaMAP Academy Appendix A: Project Management About the Louisiana Geographic Information Systems Council About the Office of Electronic Services About the Louisiana Geographic Information Center Appendix B: I-Team Strategic Partners Appendix C: Louisiana s Geospatial Priority Issues ii

3 Table of Figures Figure 1: LouisianaMAP Geospatial Information & Services Portal... 3 Figure 2: LouisianaMAP Architecture... 5 Figure 3: LouisianaMAP Combines Data from Numerous Custodians... 6 Figure 4: LouisianaMAP Functional Design... 8 Figure 5: Internet Client Functionality Figure 6: Custom Web Designs Mapping from a Data Base Figure 7: Geospatial Data Integration with Commercial Applications Figure 8: Louisiana s Geospatial Framework Data Layers iii

4 Executive Summary Louisiana is a national leader in the utilization and application of Geographic Information Technologies and services. In addition to its pioneering efforts and nationally recognized geospatial industries, Louisiana consistently leads the way for the collaborative and innovative development and distribution of geospatial services and resources. At the forefront of these efforts is the LouisianaMAP Geographic Information & Services Portal a free, Internet based mapping application and data server designed to generate customized maps and deliver advanced geographic data services for Louisiana s academia, business, citizens and government. Funded by a Technology Innovation Fund grant awarded in March 2002, the LouisianaMAP portal initiative is a joint project developed by the Louisiana Geographic Information Systems Council and the Office of Electronic Service to revolutionize E-Government by providing a singlesource, reliable, and cost-effective geographic information and services component to the Louisiana.gov Web platform. As an innovative technology, LouisianaMAP is able to deploy highly scalable geospatial data services and functions to clients via the Internet. Internet clients can quickly discover and meaningfully exploit the information they want, for the geographic area of the State in which they are concerned. Simultaneously, geospatial stakeholders and agencies can easily integrate LouisianaMAP functions and data services directly within their own applications, effectively leveraging the State s existing GIT resources without having to maintain them. While the capabilities provided by the LouisianaMAP portal represent a significant enhancement to Louisiana s E-Government initiatives, the demand and expectation for faster, more responsive geospatial data and services is increasing. If LouisianaMAP is to sustain its current growth and meet future challenges, it must be able to leverage existing and emerging technologies efficiently and effectively. Accordingly, this white paper explains in general terms the current services and capabilities available from the LouisianaMAP geospatial portal. Furthermore, this document seeks to identify those functions and services that LouisianaMAP must implement in order to sustain meaningful, consistent and cost-effective geospatial data services for all segments of Louisiana s community. Additional information and related documents may be obtained on-line at: iv

5 The LouisianaMAP Geospatial Portal An LGISC White Paper By Joshua Kent, Data Manager Louisiana Geographic Information Center (LAGIC) Introduction Louisiana is nationally recognized as a leader in the utilization and distribution of geographic information technology (GIT) and services. Supporting one of the most advanced GIT industries in the country, Louisiana consistently ranks at the top for the collaborative and innovative deployment of various geospatial data resources and services. By aligning the State s existing resources and assets, all sectors of the Louisiana geospatial community have benefited from the enhanced services and capabilities made available by geospatial technologies. In an effort to further expand the State s ability to provide innovative services, the Louisiana Geographic Information Center and the Office of Electronic Services have jointly developed Louisiana s first E-Government geographic services web portal, the LouisianaMAP Geospatial Information & Services Portal. This document explores the functionality and services provided by the LouisianaMAP geospatial portal. Furthermore, by examining the existing capabilities and future needs of the Louisiana s various E-Government initiatives, this document intends to identify those functions and services the LouisianaMAP portal must implement in order to provide and sustain meaningful, consistent, and cost-effective geospatial services for Louisiana. Background For decades, Louisiana s academia, businesses, and governments have realized the value of geospatial technology and services as a tool for organizing and understanding the relationships shared between the natural world, its resources, and its inhabitants. Numerous public and private organizations have annually invested millions of dollars in the acquisition and production of geographically referenced data for Louisiana. In fact, studies demonstrate that more than 80-percent of all data used and developed by government and business contain geographic components. By organizing information according to geographic location, agencies are better equipped to manage their data assets while ensuring their ability to meaningfully illustrate complex concepts and patterns using a map. When incorporating the capabilities of a geographic information system (GIS), users are able to integrate, visualize, analyze, and understand information in ways never before possible using digital maps. 1

6 Integrate Visualize Analyze Manage Understand Because it consistently demonstrates a long-term return on investment, GIT services have earned recognition within the enterprise as an invaluable resource for making critical decisions and providing effective services. GIT enhances an organization s business processes by aligning the necessary tools and resources that enable decision-makers to make better decisions more efficiently. In order to further capitalize on its potential, Louisiana s various GIT resources have been aligned in such a way as to enhance the State s ability to leverage its existing geospatial investments as a capital asset. By taking advantage of new and existing cost-sharing ventures, State agencies are able to allocate their financial resources more efficiently reducing discontinuous implementations and duplicative efforts. Not surprisingly, GIT continues to grow within agencies while simultaneously expanding into new sectors. In no other sector has GIT grown more quickly than in Internet based E-Government. What is LouisianaMAP? The LouisianaMAP geospatial portal is an Internet based mapping application designed to generate customized maps and deliver advanced geographic data services for Louisiana (Figure 1). Financed by a Technology Innovation Fund (TIF) grant awarded in March 2002, the LouisianaMAP initiative revolutionizes Louisiana E-Government by ensuring the availability of a common, consistent, and reliable geographic information and services component to the Louisiana.gov Web portal. With LouisianaMAP, users are able to easily access and meaningfully exploit many of the State s existing geospatial data assets at no cost and without restrictions on use. Benefits The LouisianaMAP geospatial portal benefits all segments of Louisiana government, academia, businesses, and citizens by delivering customized data services and innovative mapping functionality via the Internet. With capabilities tailored to meet the needs of both the novice and the professional, LouisianaMAP provides the necessary tools and resources that enable users to make effective decisions. Internet clients are able to quickly and easily access geospatial information using basic map functionality, while advanced developers and data users can easily integrate LouisianaMAP functions and services directly within their own applications. The results can be measured in the significant savings of time, effort, and expense. 2

7 Figure 1: LouisianaMAP Geospatial Information & Services Portal Advantages Major advantages of the LouisianaMAP geospatial portal include: Use of the Internet to create custom maps that combine various types of geographic data distributed from multiple sources. Clients can interactively identify and quickly locate Government services and information linked to a location. Professional users can incorporate data services directly within professional-level software applications. Developers can easily integrate portal services and functionality within customized applications, without having to maintain data or require special hardware or software. Reduces redundancy in the planning, production, and exploitation of Louisiana s most critical geospatial data assets (i.e. Framework Layers). Promote interoperability between government agencies (G2G) and services to Louisiana s citizens (G2C). Clients & Users Since its official public release in November 2003, LouisianaMAP has been accessed more than one-million times per month, generating approximately 200MB of map data per week. Many LouisianaMAP clients/users include the following: Citizens Hunters and fishermen, property owners, and tourists. Private Organizations Non-profit service providers, event coordinators. Businesses Real-estate, economic development and business locators. Public Services / Governments The decision-makers, service providers, planners, and resource management professionals. Academia Researchers, students, and professors. 3

8 LouisianaMAP Infrastructure Internet Technology The LouisianaMAP Geospatial Information & Services portal is hosted on the Louisiana.gov Web portal infrastructure, designed to provide reliable and consistent services. Powered by a variety of leading-edge technologies, the LouisianaMAP infrastructure includes numerous serverclass machines that run the Web, mapping, and data servers. The primary systems are managed and maintained by the Louisiana Division of Administration (DOA), Office of Computing Services (OCS) located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A secondary applications development and fallover server is maintained by the Louisiana Geographic Information Center (LAGIC) on the Louisiana State University (LSU) Baton Rouge campus. LouisianaMAP employs the spatial processing and data management capabilities of ESRI s ArcIMS, ArcSDE, Microsoft SQL Server enterprise database, and other third-party technologies in order to provide the mapping and development services for the State s geospatial data assets. ArcIMS and ArcSDE work together, providing integrated back office 1 solutions that ensure fast and consistent access to, and dissemination of Louisiana s geospatial data assets via Internet (Figure 2). ArcIMS is a geospatial data and applications server capable of distributing spatial data services over the Web. It supports a core set of basic spatial functions and services such as geocoding, reverse geocoding, spatial queries, and dynamic mapping. ArcIMS is composed of a highly-scalable, multi-tiered platform of Web server connectors, application servers, spatial data processors, and a suite of open-source Extensible Markup Languages (XML) and Simple Object Application Protocols (SOAP) that facilitate user-requested mapping and data services. This functionality allows ArcIMS to integrate data resources from a disparate collection of data services, including ArcSDE. ArcSDE is a multi-platform, data application server that facilitates the management of geospatial data within leading database management systems (DBMS), including Oracle, Informix, IBM DB2, and Microsoft SQL Server. ArcSDE performs as an applications server, capable of delivering geospatial data to numerous applications, including ArcIMS. 1 The internal operations of an organization that are not accessible or visible to the general public; typically associated with a suite of integrated server-class software applications designed to ensure the efficient and collaborative development, deployment, and management of applications in an organization. 4

9 Java Thin Client GIS Client Clients HTML User Internet Agency Web Site LouisianaMAP Interface JAVA Client HTML Client GIS Client O ther Services Data & Application Services (ArcIMS) Map Server Routing Geocoding More Data Access Gateway (ArcSDE) Data LDEQ Imagery (Oracle) Figure 2: LouisianaMAP Architecture LouisianaMAP currently serves data maintained both locally and by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. By utilizing existing interoperability capabilities, LouisianaMAP is able to seamlessly combine the resources from various data providers, effectively enhancing the portal s ability to provide meaningful map data services. Clearinghouse Functionality Recognizing the demand and value for accurate and reliable geospatial data, the costs of redundant data collection, storage, and maintenance, and the need for a common data framework, LouisianaMAP establishes a process whereby users have direct access to geospatial data via clearinghouse technology. By seamlessly incorporating data from the various agencies and data custodians throughout the State, LouisianaMAP is able to deliver reliable, accurate, and consistent data to all stakeholders (Figure 3). Custodians provide direct access to their data resources using industry recognized interoperability standards, policies and services. As a result, data are provided without the need for duplication or unnecessary redundancy. Thus, public and private sector stakeholders are able to allocate their financial resources more effectively saving money by reducing discontinuous implementations and duplicative spending. 5

10 Figure 3: LouisianaMAP Combines Data from Numerous Custodians For the initial phase of LouisianaMAP, portions of the data made available online are provided by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. As portal services and functionality increase, clearinghouse technologies will be able to integrate the data services from a number of additional providers, including: ATLAS data server (hosted by the LSU CADGIS Lab) 2 LA Dept. of Natural Resources (LDNR) LA Dept. of Transportation & Development (DOTD) LA Geographic Information Center (LAGIC) and others as they come on-line. Interoperability LouisianaMAP employs open-source interoperability tools and functionality that allow different information communities to share data ensuring consistent and reliable access to, and sharing of Louisiana s geospatial data assets. In fact, the LouisianaMAP initiative does not mandate that data providers/custodians adopt database and server software architecture from a particular vendor(s). Such an approach might lock data providers and users into proprietary solutions. Instead, LouisianaMAP portal technology supports Open GIS Consortium (OGC) interoperability standards that are defined collaboratively by all geospatial data stakeholders. 2 The LSU CADGIS Lab is jointly maintained by the LSU School of Design and the Department of Geography & Anthropology. ATLAS provides free access to a massive collection of digital geospatial data assets. For more information, visit the ATLAS site at: 6

11 LouisianaMAP Services What makes LouisianaMAP unique from other online Internet mapping services is its ability to efficiently deliver geospatial information within a meaningful context. In effect, the map application determines what type of data is displayed in the map. By employing tools and capabilities specifically designed to meet the needs and skill-level of its users, LouisianaMAP is able to quickly deliver the information a user wants for the geographic location in which they are interested. For example, when the user requests a map or service through the LouisianaMAP Web interface, the resulting map only depicts the information requested in the context in which the request was made, without the array of confusing data layers and complex map functions often found in other web mapping implementations. Likewise, mapping and data services delivered to the geospatial professional correspond to the standards and policies established by the geospatial community. Goals The primary goal of the LouisianaMAP portal is to provide users with the tools and resources necessary to intuitively discover and meaningfully exploit the information they want, for the geographic area of the State in which they are concerned without requiring complex software applications or the knowledge of how the data are stored or manipulated (Figure 4). LouisianaMAP makes map production easy. Objectives To accomplish its goals, LouisianaMAP has established a critical set of objectives that can be used to measure success: Provide a free, single-source, reliable, and consistent resource for accessing Louisiana s geographic information assets. Provide easy-to-use interface tools, customized to the user s needs. Deliver geospatial information within the context of the user s interests. Reduce duplication of effort among the Louisiana geospatial data stakeholders by integrating data and application services from Louisiana s geospatial information community and designated data custodians. Improve the quality of Louisiana s geospatial information assets while making the information and technology more accessible. Promote multi-sector collaboration for the coordinated development, implementation, and dissemination of geospatial data and services for Louisiana. 7

12 LouisianaMAP Clients LouisianaMAP Geospatial Portal GIS data World Wide Web GIS data GIS data GIS data LouisianaMAP Geospatial Data (SQL Server) LouisianaMAP Geospatial Catalog & Data Server Figure 4: LouisianaMAP Functional Design Customized Interface LouisianaMAP geospatial portal supports a robust collection of functionality and services that are tailored to meet the needs of the user, regardless of his/her skill-level. These include services for the Internet Client, Web Developer, and geospatial data User. Internet Client Those users not requiring the advanced technology of professional-level geographic information systems (GIS) can use LouisianaMAP to quickly capture, identify and display geospatial information directly to their desktop through a thin-client, Internet browser interface such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. Web Developer Web developers can easily integrate the capabilities of LouisianaMAP within any Web page or other thinclient desktop application. Developers can include LouisianaMAP content and functionality directly within customized applications without hosting the data or developing specialized applications resulting in significant savings of development time, expense, and computer resources. Geospatial Data User Advanced data users are able to exploit the built-in functionality and services of LouisianaMAP to query, discover, and stream (or download) geospatial data sets directly into their own GIS applications. 8

13 Data As a state-wide E-Government initiative, the LouisianaMAP geospatial portal establishes a process whereby data layers developed and managed by Louisiana s geospatial stakeholders are easily integrated and distributed using standard Internet protocols, leading to limitless data sharing possibilities. LouisianaMAP portal currently offers access to seven key data layers, organized by type. Vector Data: Administrative Boundaries Depicting state and Parish boundaries Hydrography Depicting rivers, bayous, streams, lakes, etc. Geographic Place Names Depicting names of Parishes and cities Road Network Depicting roads, highways, interstates, etc. Raster Data (currently hosted by LA Dept. of Environmental Quality): Digital Orthophoto Quarter Quadrangles (DOQQ) High resolution, spatially corrected aerial photography for the entire State acquired in Thematic Mapper (TM) Satellite imagery for the entire State acquired in USGS Digital Raster Graph (DRG) Digital version of the popular USGS quadrangle map sheet. LouisianaMAP does not manage these data. Instead, much of the data are maintained and distributed by the agencies and organizations that created them - eliminating the need for duplicated data-storage strategies. Internet Client Services In addition to basic mapping tools that allow Internet Clients to Zoom-In, Zoom-Out, Pan, and Print, LouisianaMAP provides a number of easy-touse functions that include (Figure 5): Create Custom Maps create a dynamic map of any place in Louisiana. Parish Locator Locate and map a Parish. Address Locator Locate and map a street address. Map Geographic Coordinates Locate and map a place according to Latitude and Longitude, or GPS coordinate. 9

14 Figure 5: Internet Client Functionality Advanced capabilities include: Routing & Trip-Planning generate and map a route between two or more locations, and include driving directions. Feature Identification Tool identify a feature or event on the map. Feature Location Tool find a place or event referenced from another feature. Customized Mapping Integration map a place or event referenced from another Web site. Web Development Services From simple mapping functions to more complex tasks such as multipoint routing, LouisianaMAP allows Web Developers to make lightweight, geospatial data applications simpler and faster than ever before. Using open-source interoperability standards, LouisianaMAP services and functionality can easily be included within any agency/organization web site or custom built, web-enabled applications (Figure 6). Without having to learn new programming languages or environments, agency Web developers can include the same services and functionality available to the Internet Client within their own implementations. 10

15 Figure 6: Custom Web Designs Mapping Street Addresses from a Data Base Custom Web services and application include: Multi-Record Address Matching Easy Integration with Agency Web Sites Thin-Client Mapping Solutions for Customized Applications Geospatial Data User Services LouisianaMAP also provides a number of highly scalable geospatial data services developed specifically for Louisiana s geospatial community. Recipients are able to integrate all available data services directly within their own applications, effectively leveraging existing resources without having to maintain them (Figure 7). These services include: GIS Image Data Services serve static geospatial data, including air-photos and satellite imagery that can be integrated directly into a commercially available GIS software packages. GIS Feature Data Services serve dynamic geospatial feature data that can be integrated directly into commercial GIS software packages. 11

16 Figure 7: Geospatial Data Integration with Commercial Applications Long-term Vision While the capabilities provided by the LouisianaMAP portal represent a significant enhancement to Louisiana s E-Government initiatives, the demand and expectation for faster, more responsive geospatial data and services is increasing. If LouisianaMAP is to sustain its current growth and meet future challenges, it must be able to leverage existing and emerging technologies efficiently and effectively. Accordingly, the following goal-oriented recommendations have been identified as critical for LouisianaMAP: Follow the Louisiana I-Team Initiative to serve the State s Framework data assets. Obtain interoperability certification to ensure common, consistent, and reliable access to geospatial data assets. Enhance LouisianaMAP services and functionality to serve the needs of its users, and meet future challenges. Establish a process for responding to user feedback Develop a comprehensive outreach initiative for LouisianaMAP and the Louisiana I-Team Initiative. 12

17 Louisiana s I-Team Initiative The long-term goals of the LouisianaMAP geospatial portal are inherently tied to the Louisiana Framework Data Implementation Team Initiative (I-Team Initiative). The Louisiana I-Team initiative is a project of the Louisiana GIS Council designed to coordinate and establish a comprehensive process for the planning, production, management, and exploitation of Louisiana s geospatial information assets. Framework Data Central to the mission of the I-Team initiative is the creation of Louisiana s Framework Data Layers. The primary goal of the Louisiana I-Team is to establish a process whereby Louisiana s geospatial data stakeholders 3 define and build consensus on the content of Louisiana s geographic data framework the collection of Louisiana s most important geospatial data sets from which a significant portion of all geographic information is referenced and derived (Figure 8). Framework layers include: Cadastral property boundaries and management references Demographics census information Elevation & Bathymetry land elevation and water depth Geodetic Control positional-accuracy Government Units administrative boundaries Hydrography bayous, rivers, lakes Land Use / Land Cover identifies agricultural, forested, industrial, urban, wetlands, etc. Orthoimagery satellite and high-resolution aerial photography Transportation streets, roads, highways, navigable water, air, etc. Utilities & Critical Infrastructure electricity, communications, natural resources, etc. The effort required to create, manage and disseminate the Framework is too expensive and time consuming for any one State agency or government to undertake. Alternatively, the responsibility for the development and continued creation of Framework layers is distributed to data custodians members of the geospatial community (i.e. stakeholders) that develop and manage a framework layer as defined or required by their mission. By coordinating efforts of the Louisiana geospatial community towards developing the framework, all stakeholders will benefit from cost savings by eliminating the duplication of data collection, creation, and maintenance. 3 See Appendix B: I-Team Strategic Partners 13

18 Application Data Traditional Databases Traditional databases with geographic reference Geospatial Framework Utilities & Critical Infrastructure Demographics Land Use/Land Cover Cadastral Hydrography Transportation Governmental Units Geodetic Control Elevation and Bathymetry Orthoimagery State Designated Themes Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC) Themes Boundaries for State, Parishes, Municipalities, Precincts, Legislative and Planning districts Foundation Figure 8: Louisiana s Geospatial Framework Data Layers LouisianaMAP will serve the Louisiana Framework Data Layers, either directly or via the distributed data services provided by the data custodian. In doing so, LouisianaMAP fulfills two key missions of the Louisiana I-Team initiative: Ensure the common, consistent, and reliable dissemination of Louisiana s geospatial framework assets Ensure that derived applications and services match the standards and quality of the data layer from which it was created. Standards Certification Because the LouisianaMAP portal will serve as a clearinghouse for the State s Framework data, it must ensure common, consistent and reliable interoperability for all users. The Open GIS Consortium (OGC) provides standards certification that ensures LouisianaMAP users and stakeholders that the portal consistently provides universal access to all of its managed data resources and services. Two forms of certification are currently available: OGC Web Mapping Services (WMS) - Defines four standard protocols that support the creation and display of registered and superimposed map-like views of information that come simultaneously from multiple sources that are both remote and heterogeneous. 14

19 OGC Web Feature Services (WFS) Defines standard protocols that support data manipulation operations on simple features (point, line, polygon, multi-point, etc.) such that servers and clients can communicate at the feature level. A third component of certification is under development that will authenticate geospatial catalog standards. OGC Catalog Interface (CAT) Defines a common interface that enables diverse but conformant applications to perform discovery, browse and query operations against distributed and potentially heterogeneous catalog servers. Enhancing Portal Functions and Services As mentioned earlier, LouisianaMAP differs from other Internet mapping services in that it delivers the geospatial information the user requested, within a meaningful context. When expanding the capabilities of the portal, emphasis will be placed on the overall effectiveness the proposed function or service can meaningfully provide to the user. LouisianaMAP portal capabilities can be organized into two broad categories: functionality and application. Functional defines the tools and capabilities employed by the portal. Enhancements to the portal functionality can include: o Expand and add new tools, including identify, query, buffer, save map, etc. o Add new data sets, including Framework data layers. o Add additional resources to the mapping tool, including targeted resource-linking. o Enhance operational performance for faster, more responsive mapping. o Support additional clients and users. Application refers to the way LouisianaMAP augments a service or capability. Enhancements to portal application can include: o Expanded Web integration, providing value-added mapping services to additional agency Web sites. o Develop customized services based applications at the agency level, providing cost effective E-Solutions to agencies and organizations. o Expand the data service and management capabilities to be more inclusive, establishing a method for integrating other geospatial data assets within the LouisianaMAP system. 15

20 Listed below are examples of a few potential LouisianaMAP Web integration applications. These applications can be integrated within the agency s Web site with little to no overhead. Louisiana Department of Culture Recreation & Tourism Map State-Managed Public Parks & Recreation Centers Tourist Locations (Plantation Homes, Cultural Centers, etc.) Event Mapping (Mardi-gras, sporting events, festivals, etc.) Elections Commission Voter District-Precinct-Ward Locator (i.e. Where do I vote?) Map Political Districts Map Election Results Louisiana Department of Economic Development Si te-selection Wizards Map favorable growth centers promoted by LDED Population Demographics Louisiana Department of Education Map Primary and Secondary Schools and Districts Map Test Scores (by district, Parish, etc.) Map Bus Routes by District Louisiana Department of Health & Hospitals Map All Hospitals Map 24-Hour Emergency Rooms Map Ad Hoc campaigns (e.g. West-Nile Encephalitis cases by parish) Louisiana Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness Hurricane Evacuation Routes Flood Maps (FIRM / LIDAR) Map Emergency Response Centers (Police/Sheriff/Troopers, Fire, EMS, etc.) Louisiana Department of Social Services Map State Services Centers Head-Start Centers Other 16

21 Meeting Louisiana s Needs for the future Louisiana must confront a number of challenges that directly and indirectly affect the State s citizens, economy, and environment. Spelled out in the Louisiana: Vision 2020 initiative, these challenges will represent a significant effort to improve Louisiana s future through technology and innovation. A unique characteristic of these challenges is that they all require quick and easy access to sound geographic information and services 4. As such, many of the issue items identified by Vision 2020 can be best addressed using the services capabilities of LouisianaMAP. Below are examples of potential web applications that could address the needs of the State: Homeland Security the crucial need for an efficient and coordinated effort to guard the borders and airports, protect the critical infrastructure, devise strategies to respond to future emergencies, and to protect citizens by enhancing public assistance such as natural disaster aid and citizen services. Information such as half-foot resolution ortho-imagery provides the foundation for mapping critical infrastructure including, but not limited to, nuclear power plants, oil refineries, electrical power grid stations, port and terminal facilities, and natural gas pipelines. Natural Hazards industrialization and population growth of low- infrastructure in peril of lying areas have placed people and essential such natural hazards as flooding from thunderstorms, hurricanes, and other bad weather. Strategies to respond to such disasters require the knowledge of the interrelationships between existing resources, public access to the resources, and disaster evacuation options. These activities require access to accurate geographic information about the road network, elevation and bathymetry, fresh water supplies, and more. Coastal Loss continuing loss of Louisiana s coast through erosion and subsidence have impacted Louisiana s biological diversity, altered commercial and recreational fishing industry, and invalidated the system of geodetic control monuments from which geographic positioning is referenced. An accurate geographic reference control base (geodetic control) is vital to coastal restoration efforts, and the creation of robust framework data themes - elevation, imagery, and many other digital datasets that rely on vertical accuracy. Mapping the complex coastal configuration of the State includes depicting shoreline, wetlands, geology, land use and land cover, and infrastructure (pipeline and road networks, port, utilities, etc.). 4 See Appendix C: Louisiana s Geospatial Priority Issues 17

22 Hazardous Material Spill Response quickly responding to emergency events is essential for mitigating the damage to natural resources, economic infrastructure, and to avoid risks to public health. Effectively responding to a toxic release requires immediate access to accurate, up-to-date data: such as location of hazardous materials storage facilities and emergency facilities (hospitals, fire, and police), population centers, etc. Accordingly, emergency response services often rely on a variety of data from multiple agencies, including transportation, demographics, and critical infrastructure. The ability to access and process information quickly and deploy resources where needed is mission critical for saving lives and property. Economic development geospatial information depicting the locations of natural resources, industrial processing, transportation networks, employee base, and major consumer markets are critical for planning and developing economic opportunities. In addition, businesses use demographic information such as education and training, recreational opportunities, and cultural amenities to evaluate locations for relocation and expansion enabling communities and municipalities to take an active role in attracting new businesses and investment. Health Care & Social Services understanding issues ranging from medical epidemiology to accessibility of healthcare services requires a comprehensive understanding of their geography. Geospatial services provide the common analytical foundation in which public health authorities can understand problems and formulate a response, improving the planning, implementation, and management of care. Education in addition to its traditional role within primary and secondary educational classrooms, geospatial technology also supports the business of education, including facilities management, campus safety, managing bus routes, and student recruiting. Accordingly, educational applications rely on many key Framework data layers, including cadastral information, demographics, land use and land cover, transportation, and utilities and critical infrastructure. Environmental Quality geography is critical for helping government and commercial entities monitor the environment more efficiently and cost-effectively. It also is the key to helping organizations comply with the environmental regulations. Geospatial technology has been an integral component in environmental management for decades. Using GIS for activates such as site analysis, predictive modeling, and regulatory management improves efficiency and saves money. 18

23 Managed Resources geospatial technology is critical for managing the spatial components of Earth s natural resources. Knowing where to drill a well, route a pipeline, or build a refinery are all questions that rely heavily on an understanding of geography in order to make intelligent business decisions. Police and Public Safety information about the location of an incident is often crucial in knowing how to respond. Response capabilities often rely on a variety of data from various agencies, including transportation networks, demographics, and critical infrastructure. Furthermore, by mapping the patterns and distribution of criminal activity, police are better able to access and process information quickly and deploy resources more effectively. Accordingly, GIT empowers public safety personnel to effectively develop patrol strategies, determine mitigation priorities, analyze past criminal activity, and make predictions about future events. User Feedback A major resource for identifying future needs is easily obtained from user feedback. LouisianaMAP will have the capability to accept questions, comments, and requests from the user. Additional capabilities will provide for a method of addressing user requests for additional data sets, new and updated functions, and their recommendations for making the interface more user-friendly. LouisianaMAP Academy As a component of the Technology Innovation Fund grant, LouisianaMAP initiative supports an educational outreach component called, the LouisianaMAP Academy. The mission of the LouisianaMAP Academy is to provide orientation and training for the proper and effective use of the LouisianaMAP geospatial portal, and expand awareness of Louisiana s I-Team efforts to develop the Framework data layers. In addition to hands-on workshops, the Map Academy will collect user feedback regarding existing and desired functionality and services. 19

24 Appendix A: Project Management The LouisianaMAP Geospatial Information & Services Portal is funded by a 24-month Technology Innovation Fund (TIF) grant awarded to the LGISC and OES in March The development and technic al management of LouisianaMAP geospatial portal is provided by the Louisiana Geographic Information Center (LAGIC). About the Louisiana Geographic Information Systems Council The Council was created by an act of the Legislature in 1995 (Act 922) to guide the sound development of geographic information systems (GIS) and geographically related information technology for Louisiana. Consisting of members from twenty-one local, regional, and state agencies, the GIS Counc il has been, and continues to be responsible for the establishment of policies, procedures and guidelines that promote the sharing of data and technology among state and local governments, coordinate the acquisition of statewide data sets, eliminate duplication of effort and redundancy in data collections and systems, and build a state-wide consensus on the content of Louisiana s k ey geospatial framework data layers. More information is available online: About the Office of Electronic Services The Office of Electronic Services (OES), formerly known as the Office of Data Base Commission, was cre ated within the Office of Information Technology by Act 772 during the 2001 Legislative Session. OES provides citizens, businesses, and government electronic access to comprehensive state information and services. OES maintains the Louisiana.gov Web Portal, the Louisiana Services Directory, Louisiana Database Catalog, Louisiana News, Louisiana E- Mall, Electronic Announcements and Notifications, and the State Census Data Center. More information is available online: About the Louisiana Geographic Information Center The Louisiana Geographic Information Center (LAGIC) was established by the Louisiana GIS Council and the Off ice of Electronic Services to facilitate the distribution of geographic information, provide technical assistance, and support GIS data development among state, federal, and local government. LAGIC is provides numerous educational, outreach, and technical-services solutions. Furthermore, LAGIC is responsible for the management and maintenance of numerous web services, including the LouisianaMAP geospatial portal. More in formation is available online: 20

25 Appendix B: I-Team Strategic Partners Local & Regional Governments Amite Basin Commission Ouachita Parish Assessor State Government Board of Regents City of Baton Rouge St. James Parish Division of Administration: OES & State Lands* City of New Orleans & NO E911 St. Martin Parish Assessor s Office Agriculture & Forestry New Orleans Regional Planning Districts Regional Planning Commission Culture, Recreation & Tourism Education Environmental Quality* Natural Resources Health & Hospitals Public Safety Transportation & Louisiana Geological Wildlife & Fisheries Development* Survey Homeland Security & Office of the Governor: Emergency Preparedness Louisiana Oil Spill Coordinator s Office* Louisiana Legislature Federal Government US Airforce US Census Bureau* US Army Corps of Engineers New Orleans District US Environmental Protection Agency National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration Academia Louisiana State Southern University University University of New Orleans Private Industry & Organizations US Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service US Geological Survey Tulane University US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration US National Guard Louisiana National Guard University of Louisiana Lafayette 3001, Inc ATS Aero-Data Corporation C-K Associates C.H. Fenstermaker & Associates, Inc. Digital Louisiana Gulf Engineers & Consultants Roy O. Martin * Identified Data Custodian Carey Technology, LLC Environmental Science Services, Inc. Intergraph Corporation The American Waterways Operators Coastal Environments, Inc. Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) Planning Districts Association Weyerhaeuser Company Crescent River Port Pilot s Association GeoQuery Planning Systems, Inc. 21

26 Appendix C: Louisiana s Geospatial Priority Issues Goals of Vision 2020, 2003 update Priority Data Layers ( The critical data sets needed to address Louisian a s priority issues, includes the seven NSDI framework layers) Education (Goal 1, a fully engage d well e duca t ed workforce) lo pment ant an d ) d nomy Deve vibr eco omic oal 2, a ance Econ (G bal Recreation & Tourism a l 3, A quality of life p lacing u s among the t op ten states) (Go l & tion ) o Protec s 2 & 3 Flood Contr Hurricane (Goal ment ity y Manage d Secu melan r (Goal s 2 & 3 ) Emergenc & Ho Cadastral Information (surveyed parcels, lots and ownership) Demographics (census data & population projections) Elevation / Bathymetry (includes contours & spot elevations) Geodetic Control (a common land reference system) Governmental Units (states, counties, cities, tribal lands) D D D D D D D D D D I D D D D I D I D D D D D D D Hydrography (rivers, lakes, canals, oceans, shorelines) I D D D D Land Use / Land Cover (land surface features: urban, forested, I D I D D rural) OrthoImagery (positionally correct aerial photography) Transportation (roads, railroads, waterways, airports) D D D D D D D D D D Utilities & Critical Infrastructure (Electricity, communications, natural I D I D D resources, etc.) D = Primary Product (used directly) I = Derived Product (used indirectly) 22