Introduction
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) represent an increasingly important technology for data management, integration, and sharing. The Environmental Protection Agency defines GIS as:

A computer system designed to allow users to collect, manage, and analyze large volumes of spatially referenced files and associated data layers. GISs are used for solving
complex research, planning, and management problems. The major components
of a GIS are: a user interface, system/data base management capability, data base creation/data-entry capacity, spatial data manipulation and analysis package, and display generation function. http://www.epa.gov/ost/fishadvice/volume2/v2ch6.pdf

The RWBC is developing computer mapping and GIS as important tools for integrating research, outreach and education. In the context of RWBC projects, GIS techniques are being used to study the spatial aspects of social, economic, and environmental interactions. The RWBC joins GIS and Scientific Visualization (VIS). Scientific VIS is the three dimensional display and animation of complex data sets. More specifically, the RWBC is exploring how to integrate GIS and VIS technologies to help link environmental and life sciences with policy, planning, and decision making geared to promoting sustainable development.

GIS Partners and Labs

GIS Projects and maps

GIS Data Downloads (coming soon)