Acquisition of Research Equipment for the First GIS Center in Southeastern Idaho

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This award provides support to complete the establishment of the first GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Training and Research Center in Southeastern Idaho. GIS provides users with the ability to acquire, organize, manipulate and analyze spatial data through the use of computer systems. Or, more simply, data are collected and plotted onto digital "maps," where it can be analyzed, or manipulated in modeling exercises. Very accurate spatial data are obtainable, to within +/- lcm, through triangulation with geostationary satellites. GIS technology has a wide array of research applications, including such fields as Archeology, Anthropology, Biological Sciences, Geology, Ecology, and many more. In many fields, training in GIS technology is becoming a competitive requirement for graduates seeking jobs. At the same time, southeastern Idaho is an ideal laboratory for both researchers and students to learn the applications of GIS. Idaho, as a state, is very concerned with environmental issues, and protecting its natural resources. It has remarkable geographic diversity, including the Snake River Plain Hot Spot Track and one of the deepest canyons on the North American Continent. It also has the largest designated wilderness area in the lower 48 states. As a result of these and many other factors, Idaho is extremely rich in biodiversity, and much of it is relatively untrammeled by humans. All of this diversity -physical, biological, environmental--requires study if protective measures are to work. The equipment obtained through this award will increase research opportunities for Idaho State University Faculty, Graduate and Undergraduate students from a wide range of fields. It will also be heavily utilized by business, industry and government agencies and organizations (from the local level to the federal). The center will be an important tool for the study and maintenance of Idaho's natural environment.