Interpreting Domain History using GIS Data
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Authors
Carey, Andrew
Salazar, Jonathan Brenes
Strange, Robert
Issue Date
2013-04
Type
Presentation
Language
en_US
Keywords
Scholarship Sewanee 2013 , University of the South , University of the South Domain , Sewanee Forest History Project , Historical forest events
Alternative Title
Abstract
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a dynamic software program that combines, manipulates, analyzes and displays geographic data. The goal of this study was to introduce students to the fundamentals of GIS while contributing to the Sewanee Forest History Project (SFHP). The SFHP is a database of historical documents pertaining to past management of Sewanee’s natural areas. GIS allows us to display historical forest events in their precise geographical context for future research and cataloging at The University of the South. Three students used historical documentation, harvest contracts, hand-drawn maps and personal interviews to compile information and create comprehensive maps of forest use and management of the university’s land holdings from the 1950s – 1980s. The resulting product of this study include four GIS maps highlighting fire occurrence and timber harvests during the aforementioned period. Environmental Studies students learned the basics of GIS, a valuable and marketable skill, while contributing to the Sewanee Forest History Project.
Description
Citation
Publisher
University of the South