Virginia Geospatial Extension Program
The Virginia Geospatial Extension Program conducts targeted programs that promote the use of geospatial tools and applications, and integrate geospatial concepts throughout the K-20 educational pipeline. These tools and applications include the global positioning system (GPS), geographic information systems (GIS) and using remote-sensing data sources -- satellite imagery and aerial photography -- to provide innovative perspectives on local, regional, state and national issues. The program seeks to expand opportunities for citizens and organizations across the commonwealth to apply geospatial tools for economic and social benefit.
The program is providing K-12 educational outreach in collaboration with the Virginia Space Grant Consortium's OVERspace program, specialized workforce courses and training through Virginia's Community College System and other VSGC member universities, faculty development, and linkages to NASA and other geospatial resources, data and programs. A key component of this program is its participation with Virginia extension agents, through Agriculture and Natural Resource programs and 4-H Youth Educational initiatives, to support the dissemination of information, training and application development at the grassroots level.
The program is sponsored by the VSGC and the Virginia Cooperative Extension, and is co-located at Virginia Tech in the College of Natural Resources and the College of Agriculture/Virginia Cooperative Extension.
CONTACT: John McGee, Geospatial Extension Specialist, 219 Cheatham Hall (0324), Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, Phone: 540-231-2428, Email: jmcg@vt.edu.