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Western Region Databases and Information Analysis - Alaska GIS

Summary

This project is designed to assist Alaskan Geology research projects by building digital geoscience data sets for analysis, distribution, and publication. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology is a valuable asset for storing, analyzing, and displaying various types of data in a geographic framework. However, the complexity of the technology can be a burden to individual projects, diverting staff and funds away from basic research responsibilities. The Alaska GIS project centralizes GIS capabilities and supports all GIS needs of the Alaska Science Center's Geology office. This not only includes the creation, delivery, and maintenance of regional spatial geoscience data sets, but also assistance in spatial analyses of the data.

 

Objectives

• Build and maintain a standardized geologic map database of the state of Alaska, in order to be prepared to address anticipated mineral assessments and other project or program needs.
• Coordinate and standardize geospatial data sets between projects to avoid duplication of effort.
• Produce publications in digital format that can be incorporated into a GIS and publicized on a spatial data clearinghouse website.

 

Relevance and Impact

Production and distribution of usable digital data sets and map products are important aspects of the Mineral Resources Program. The Alaska GIS project creates and delivers digital data sets upon which USGS customers can perform complex computer analyses. The data sets produced can be used by a wide range of internal and external users of regional-scale geologic information. The data sets are standardized structurally so that individual data sets can be combined to build regionial or statewide data sets. In addition, the compiled standardized data sets will enhance the Program's ability to access and analyze mineral-resource data.