Geographic Data

What is GIS?
The term GIS is tossed around alot these days but what does the term really mean and how does it work? Check out our GIS tutorial to find out.

Illinois Geographic Information (GIS) Council
Providing the leadership necessary to effectively and efficiently integrate Geographic Information Management Technology (GIMT) on a statewide basis, ensuring that GIMT is used as a strategic resource for the State of Illinois.

Illinois Natural Resources Geospatial Data Clearinghouse
This site is a gateway to GIS data and imagery for Illinois. Available data sets and documentation (metadata) include: geology, water resources, nature preserves, wildlife areas, environment, land use, base data, Public Land Survey, political boundaries, roads, census information, and much more.

Chicago Region Clearinghouse Cooperative
Metadata (GIS data documentation) can be found at this site for roads, socio-economic data, natural resources, museum collections, geographic boundaries, land use, and more. This is an NSDI Clearinghouse Node and accepts metadata from any organization in Illinois including those in the greater metro Chicago area (Northern Illinois and Northwestern Indiana).

Federal Geographic Data Committee
The Federal Geographic Data Committee coordinates the development of the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI). The NSDI encompasses policies, standards, and procedures for organizations to cooperatively produce and share geographic data. The 16 federal agencies that make up the FGDC are developing the NSDI in cooperation with organizations from state, private sector.

USGS National Mapping Information
The production of digital cartographic data and graphic maps comprises the largest component of the USGS National Mapping Program (NMP). Cartographic data are compiled from aerial photographs, other remotely sensed images, historical records, legal documents, and direct field observations and surveys and comply with standards of content, geometric accuracy, and presentation. Modern, automated equipment is used in this process, replacing the labor-intensive processes of the past. The NMP incorporates the documented needs of 40 Federal agencies and the 50 States, which are solicited and analyzed as part of a continuous requirements assessment process. USGS Home