Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
This is an example of a GIS map. This map shows roads at risk from flooding of the Deerfield River.
About Geographic Information Systems
A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer system that can assemble, store, manipulate, and display spatial data. The data is geographically referenced, meaning it is based on actual latitude and longitude. GIS systems include computer hardware, as well as software programs that analyze data and create display maps. GIS is used at the FRCOG for many purposes. These include showing general existing physical conditions of the county such as roads, water resources, and developed or undeveloped lands. It is also used for specific projects such as developing local emergency management plans, developing open space protection plans, forecasting future traffic growth or land development, or determining evacuation routes. GIS is incorporated into many aspects of the FRCOG work, but is also available to towns on a fee-for-service basis.
Current Projects
Pictometry In 2004 the FRCOG acquired high-resolution aerial photographs for all of Franklin County thanks to the Massachusetts Highway Department entering into a license agreement with the company who produced the images – Pictometry International, Inc. In turn, the FRCOG has been permitted to provide these images to all interested towns in Franklin County, free of charge.
Datalayers Datalayers are sets of electronic information that are used to make custom maps. They can be combined, or "layered", in any number of ways allowing a map to reflect exactly the characteristics desired. The FRCOG develops its own datalayers, and uses those created by other agencies such as MassGIS. Datalayers are updated on a regular basis to ensure that the information is current.