For instructional assistance, contact Dr. Larissa Montas, GIS Librarian for Instruction & Engagement. These instructional documents accompany workshops introducing participants to ESRI mapping and spatial analysis suite of products. Participants will learn how to create interactive maps, how to add, manage, and share content, and how to perform basic spatial analysis procedures with their data. Participants will also learn how to create and share basic web apps—and how to access a wide variety of demographic, consumer spending, and business data aggregated at different geographic levels—to generate presentation-ready reports, infographics, and maps. If you are UM-affiliated and do not have the proper credentials for this software program, contact us for assistance.
GIS Day is a global event to showcase and inspire the use of geographic information systems (GIS). It is a day dedicated to showing, teaching, and inspiring others. The University of Miami Libraries and the Department of Geography and Sustainable Development are celebrating GIS Day on November 13, 2024.
Mapping the Impact of Hurricane Sandy on New York’s Vulnerable Communities and Infrastructure
Authors:
Ahmad Alkharji (Graduate Student in Architectural Engineering)
Othman Binmutlaq (Graduate Student in Civil Engineering)
Abstract:
The project explores how Hurricane Sandy affected vulnerable areas and New York's infrastructure. In order to examine the storm's impact on critical places and draw attention to the necessity of strong infrastructure in high-risk areas, we mapped flood zones, damage estimates, social vulnerability, and transportation delays. According to our research, socially vulnerable communities encountered major difficulties during Sandy, highlighting the significance of focused disaster preparation and reinforcing infrastructure to protect vulnerable groups from severe weather in the future.
Relationship between Green Space and Heat Index in Miami-Dade
Author: Sadegh Tale, PhD Student in Civil and Architectural Engineering
Abstract: Urban areas experience elevated temperatures due to the urban heat island effect, which exacerbates public health risks, energy demands, and environmental stress. This study explores the relationship between green space and heat index within Miami, focusing on how tree canopy cover impacts local temperatures.
Sofia Remez (Master Student in Construction Management)
Mike Brenner (Master Student in Construction Management)
Abstract: Water management in South Florida is a chronic vulnerability, constantly becoming more serious due to sea level rise and population growth. King Tides pose a large threat to water management as they increase water levels 6-12 inches above typical high tide levels. The impacts of king tides in South Florida range from mild to severe and pose a significant threat to public safety as well as to homes, businesses, and flow of life. In this poster, we have outlined the challenges associated with king tides and offered creative solutions.
Analisa Akan (BS Ecosystem Science and Policy, minors in Sustainable Business and Biology)
Abstract: This submission explores Florida's Everglades, focusing on how the region has changed over time. The project highlights the historical loss of wetlands and offers insight into the potential future loss of these vital ecosystems. It examines the impact of urban sprawl and development, illustrating how these factors have contributed to the decline of wetlands. The project centers on Miami-Dade County's Urban Development Boundary (UDB), which has been subject to expansion decisions that push development further into the Everglades. I will argue against expanding the UDB, emphasizing the importance of protecting critical habitat for the American crocodile and preserving the ecological integrity of the Everglades.
Hurricane Sandy Effects on Tottenville, NY: Natural Hazard Mitigation Planning using GIS Mapping
Names:
Sandesh Lamsal, Kylee Rux, Abdullah Rahmatullah, Gustavo Aguilar
Abstract:
In October 2012, one of the most destructive hurricanes in U.S. history made landfall, referred to as Superstorm Sandy. Tottenville, NY was exposed storm surge levels of 14 feet. Following the hurricane, a national competition was launched for climate change adaptation projects. One of the selected projects was the Staten Island Living Breakwaters Project. GIS mapping was applied to pre-storm and post-storm data to assess the impacts of Hurricane Sandy and to evaluate the benefits of implementing a breakwater structure. GIS maps offered valuable insights. Tottenville’s southeast coast, consisting of high home values and concentrations of buildings, experienced significant damage. Results concerning the socio-economic landscape revealed disparities in median household income. Additional GIS maps depicted the effectiveness of breakwater structures, highlighting the potential of breakwaters for coastal protection and climate resilience. Ultimately, GIS offered visual representations and played an essential role in assessing the effect of Hurricane Sandy.
Abstract:
The study focuses on flood risk mapping for New York City using QGIS and historical flood event data. Flooding is a widespread issue in the United States, affecting both coastal and inland areas, with various causes such as heavy rain, structural failures, and natural disasters. New York has faced significant flood events in its history. The research aims to assess flood risk and potential expansion of floodplains, taking into account factors like urbanization and rising temperatures. Understanding these dynamics is essential for proactive measures to mitigate flood risk in the city.
Abstract: This research project delves into the prevalence and patterns of hate crimes in the United States. By examining data on criminal acts driven by prejudice based on factors such as race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or disability, the study aims to identify states with the highest incidence of such crimes. Through a comprehensive analysis, this research seeks to uncover geographical trends and underlying factors contributing to elevated hate crime rates. The findings promise to shed light on the dynamics of hatred within American society, offering valuable insights for policymakers, law enforcement, and community leaders. Ultimately, the project strives to contribute to a better understanding of the complex interplay of societal elements that fuel hate crimes, paving the way for more effective prevention and intervention strategies nationwide.
Archbold Biological Station Immature Gopher Tortoises
Name:
Leyna Stemle
Abstract: Movement data and estimation of home-range sizes provide insight into the types and amount of habitat needed to support wildlife populations, which is critical for conservation planning. Gopher Tortoises, which are important ecosystem engineers and keystone species across the southeastern US, are experiencing ongoing population declines and warrant additional habitat protection and management throughout their range. We implemented a short-term study of immature Gopher Tortoise spatial ecology at Archbold Biological Station (ABS), Florida to determine home-range size and movement levels of 3–7-yr-old tortoises. We used GPS technology to obtain high-resolution temporal tracking data. Despite the relatively short duration of our study (40 d), immature Gopher Tortoises at ABS had home-range sizes 0.38 - 1.46 ha, which are approximately 6.6-fold larger than previously reported annual home-range estimates. Our results illustrate the importance of employing new technologies to track previously difficult-to-observe life stages and improve conservation efforts for imperiled species.
Names:
Jason Houston, Julian Bastianello, Craig Nixon, Jacob Pultro
Abstract:
Flooding is a recurrent concern that has been affecting coastal cities for years, including Brickell - Miami, FL. The low-lying coastal location of Brickell with the constant increase of sea-level rising in past years has caused Brickell to be a main point of concern for flooding hazards and risks. To effectively prevent any flooding damage from occurring throughout the city, it is essential to see which locations are most susceptible to flooding and why. Utilizing tools such as ArcGIS to effectively view the area of concern through the lens of past data and geographical information, we can accurately assess how to map out the risk found in Brickell, Miami.
Island Mapping in Post-Cascade fault earthquake in Coos Bay
Name:
Bryce Pendleton
Abstract:
This research endeavors to comprehensively investigate the geospatial repercussions of the anticipated Cascade Fault earthquake on the islands within Coos Bay, Oregon. The study employs advanced mapping techniques, including satellite imagery analysis and geographic information systems (GIS), to assess the extent of physical changes to the landscape. Furthermore, the study focuses on evaluating the demographic vulnerabilities of communities residing on these islands in the aftermath of the earthquake. Utilizing demographic data, including population density, socio-economic indicators, and infrastructure mapping, the research seeks to identify and characterize the communities most susceptible to formation of islands. The outcomes of this research can be used to think about risk assessment for Coos Bay, providing valuable insights for emergency responders. Ultimately, this research aims to enhance the community's ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from seismic events, ensuring a more resilient and adaptive future for the residents of Coos Bay, Oregon.
Abstract:
Due to Miami’s unsafe and inaccessible road infrastructure, bicyclists and pedestrians are extremely vulnerable to injuries from car accidents. According to Transit Alliance Miami, pedestrian and cyclist fatalities in Miami-Dade County are almost double the national average when adjusted for population. The built environment includes road design, land-use types, surrounding establishments, and infrastructure and it can be a determining factor for which areas turn into hotspots for accidents. I gathered data on crash incidences in the county as well as the 2021 mean household income using the Miami-Dade open GIS hub and ArcGIS pro. I focused on two high-risk areas, Little Havana and SW 67th Avenue, which had the highest number of pedestrian and bike accidents. Both are located in lower-income areas and have poor road environments. Lower-income areas experience an increased incidence of traffic crashes, injuries, and deaths than higher-income areas.
Engineers Against Wet Socks: Stormwater Management at UM
Names:
William Kalis, Chris Papa, Luke Bartholomew, Jonathan Tong
Abstract:
Presented is the existing topography of Gautier Plaza on the University of Miami Coral Gables campus, located between the Knight Physics and McArthur Engineering buildings. Gautier Plaza is very susceptible to flooding, caused in part by the shifting of pavers around a number of large oak trees in the area that have created a low spot in the center of the plaza. The purpose of this endeavor is to establish a catchment area for this flood location, using ArcGIS Pro to model collected point-elevation data. In Spring 2024, our team will go on to propose design solutions for flooding in Gautier Plaza. Two potential solutions include sizing and installing a new storm drain at a low point within the catchment area, and re-grade Gautier Plaza, addressing the roots of the surrounding oak trees.
Guardians of the Great Lakes: Enhancing Risk Management and Resilience in Michigan City
Names:
Guna Medavarapu, Guang Liang, Ethan Khan
Abstract:
Improving Michigan City's risk management and resilience is critical in the face of changing circumstances. This effort aims to strengthen the city's resilience against both natural and man-made disasters as a preventive step. By means of cooperative endeavors, substantial infrastructure enhancements, and community involvement, our objective is to establish a sturdy structure that not only reduces hazards but also cultivates a more secure and safe atmosphere for the citizens of Michigan City.
Analysis of Sea Level Rise and Septic System Failure
Name:
Vince Melucci
Abstract: My storymap details how future Sea Level Rise will affect Septic Tank Systems in Miami-Dade County. I attempt to showcase risk assessment, what areas will be affected most, and possible solutions to the emerging problems.
Urban Regeneration for a Sustainable small neighborhood
Name:
Oumayma Moufid
Abstract:
The content of this story map is part of a research project that takes the neighborhood called "Akachmir" as a case study. The research project is about the use of Building Information
Modeling (BIM) and Geographic Information System (GIS) in urban regeneration projects. Thus, this story map is reflecting the step of the case study presentation, in which the use of GIS is very important for a good visualization and analysis of the neighborhood and its urban regeneration plan. This story map could be very useful to present and share the project with all the stakeholders for an effective collaboration and decision-making.
Abstract:
This project focuses on the impact of industry on the St. Lawrence River in Quebec. Using data from the Government of Canada’s website the location of industries that border the
river was mapped out and organized into 5 main sectors. Included also is an analysis of the spatial layout of these industries as well as the identity and quantity of their effluents. Water quality parameters (both average and on a parameter-by-parameter basis) were mapped on-top of that layout to determine how the industrial effluents have affected the region. The study found that throughout the river there were heightened levels of nutrients as well as the presence of many toxic man-made chemicals, though in relatively low concentrations. An overview of conservation efforts over the years is also given to provide context to the issue as well as recommendations for the future of the river.
When you are starting on a spatial project located in Florida you should start with this portal. This will save you time and effort as most of the other Florida resources we have listed for you on this page can be searched through this site.
FGDL is a mechanism for distributing spatial (GIS) data throughout the state of Florida. The FGDL is warehoused and maintained at the University of Florida's GeoPlan Center.
Florida County & City Data
Florida County & City Data from University of Florida sorted by county.
It is a links list, and is constantly updating.
UM Geography Club on tour of Miami
Photo by George H. Houck IV
Florida GIS Libraries
Florida Geographic Data Library (FGDL) The Florida Geographic Data Library is a collection of Geospatial Data compiled by the University of Florida GeoPlan Center with support from the Florida Department of Transportation. GIS data available in FGDL is collected from various state, federal, and other agencies ("data sources") who are data stewards, originators, producers, or publishers. The data sources are listed in each data layer's metadata as the Data Originator or Content Publisher.
Land Boundary Information System (LABINS) The Land Boundary Information System (LABINS) began in 1984 as a means for distributing survey-related data that is maintained and managed by federal and state agencies to the general surveying community.
Central Florida Geographic Information Systems (CFGIS) CFGIS is a program of the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council and is serving Central Florida since 2001. The CFGIS coverage consists of 10 counties: Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Marion, Polk, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Sumter and Volusia counties.
University of Florida Digital Collections (George A Smathers Libraries)
The University of Florida Map & Digital Imagery Library houses the largest and most complete collection of Florida aerial photographs (~160,000 photos) outside of the National Archives.
Florida International University (FIU) Since its establishment in 1998, the FIU Library Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing Center has been supporting research and teaching in many academic units, including Engineering, Computing and Information Sciences, Biological Sciences, Earth and Environment, Public Health, and Global & Sociocultural Studies. MIUS collections include printed and digital maps, imagery and other GIS data.
The links in this guide are for your convenience. All of this data is available through the FGDL link available on the top left of this page. This FGDL is the geoportal you should be using if your study falls within Florida. However, we know you may want to see the data in the context of the government entity that is providing the data and that is what this list is for. As these governments agencies are currently migrating their GIS data to FGDL the links on their own pages will go dead. We will update links as we find them or you may report them to gislib@miami.edu. Thank you for understanding this guide is currently dynamic. *UPDATED 12/15/13*
Florida Bureau of Economic and Business Research (BEBR) Collects, analyzes and generates economic and demographic data on Florida and its local areas. They conduct economic and demographic research that will inform public policy and business decision making.
Note that only datasets marked as "Federal" are subject to the U.S. Federal Government and Data.gov's Data Policy. Non-federal participants (e.g., universities, organizations, and tribal, state, and local governments) maintain their own data policies. It is important that users understand the data policies of participating entities in order to best utilize these datasets. A description of this catalog and information about the datasets presented and associated metrics is available here.
GeoPlatform
These maps are already identified by regional planners as necessary and usable. They are from data sets usable at the national level. Most are already in use for planning. The site is overwhelming for some so you may want to start with the Search bar. When you are having trouble finding data from other sources this may be the one place that data in some form may be found. We recommend using this link broken down by Department of the United States Government. Click on and search within the Department of the government.
National Archive of Criminal Justice Data (NACJD)
These data sets were not necessarily collected for the purpose of mapping or conducting spatial analysis; therefore users may have to do additional work to make these collections compatible with their particular GIS. Please note that this is a static list updated monthly by NACJD staff. Users should also check the Recent Updates and Additions link on the Download Data page to see the most recent data collections added to the archive.
National Atlas: In the National Atlas Map Maker, you can assemble, view, and print your own maps. You can choose from hundreds of layers of geographic information to make maps. Each map layer can be displayed individually or mixed with others as you tailor a map to your needs. For example, you can make a map showing America's streams and lakes. And you can add new map layers showing additional geographic information, such as state boundaries, county boundaries, roads, railroads, and towns and cities. This not currently a download site but will serve well for people not familiar with GIS technology.
NESDIS at the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
The National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) is dedicated to providing timely access to global environmental data from satellites and other sources to promote, protect and enhance the Nation's economy, security, environment and quality of life. To fulfill its responsibilities, NESDIS—informally known as the NOAA Satellite and Information Service—acquires and manages the Nation's operational environmental satellites, operates the NOAA National Data Centers. The four main data sets are broken out below.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) The Dynamic Maps, Geographic Information System (GIS) Data and Analysis Tools website provides maps, data and tools for renewable energy resources that determine which energy technologies are viable solutions in domestic and international regions.
National Wetlands Inventory *COMING SOON 2014*
This national geospatial data product will contribute substantially to improved modeling of flow and water movement in surface water basins, channels, and wetlands. The old site has been removed, you can use the UN version under Global Data till the new site is up and running.
UPDATE 12/15/13 Some data is now available using through the left margin of the page.
USDA, FSA National Agriculture Imagery Program (NAIP)​
The National Agriculture Imagery Program (NAIP) acquires aerial imagery during the agricultural growing seasons in the continental U.S. A primary goal of the NAIP program is to make digital ortho photography available to governmental agencies and the public within a year of acquisition.
USGS National Map
Use The National Map Viewer and Download Platform to visualize, inspect, and download our most current topographic base map data and products for free.
TIGER products are spatial extracts from the Census Bureau's MAF/TIGER database, containing features such as roads, railroads, rivers, as well as legal and statistical geographic areas. The Census Bureau offers several file types and an online mapping application. Our products are:
The Integrated Public Use Microdata Series (IPUMS-USA) consists of more than fifty high-precision samples of the American population drawn from fifteen federal censuses and from the American Community Surveys of 2000-2011.
The National Historical Geographic Information System (NHGIS) provides, free of charge, aggregate census data and GIS-compatible boundary files for the United States between 1790 and 2012.
Digitized Map Sites
Old Maps Online: a resource combining over 400,000 digitized maps from collections all over the world. http://www.oldmapsonline.org/
The following resources provide an introduction to learning geospatial data formats, coordinate reference systems, and map projections impact the mapping process.
Geospatial Data Formats
GEOREFERENCED DATA: data that include a geographic component, such as census information, and are charted in space on GIS maps.
VECTOR DATA: spatial data represented by points, lines, or polygons and mapped using X and Y coordinates. Numeric data is paired with vector data to visualize it on a map.
RASTER DATA: surfaces represented by grids and cells, including image types such as aerial photographs, elevation models, or scanned maps.
LAYERS: categories of vector and raster data that are combined to create GIS maps. GIS maps allow users to view layers separately or in tandem.
FEATURES: common categories of information that each layer shares. Features are mapped using points, lines, and polygons.
ATTRIBUTES: details that describe a feature.
SHAPEFILE: the most common type of geospatial file. Shapefiles are a collection of vector data containing information about geographic features’ location and attributes.
GEODATABASE FEATURE CLASS: a collection of geographic features that share the same geometry type (such as point, line, or polygon) and the same attribute fields for a common area. Examples of feature classes include streets, well points, parcels, soil types, and census tracts.
Geospatial Databases
GEODATABASE: a database or file structure used primarily to store, query, and manipulate spatial data1. Developed by Esri, it represents, stores, and organizes spatial datasets within a geographic information system (GIS)2. The geodatabase combines geometry, a spatial reference system, attributes, and behavioral rules for data13. It serves as the foundation for modeling real-world features and behavior in GIS.
Datums
A datum provides a frame of reference for measuring locations on the surface of the earth. It defines the origin and orientation of latitude and longitude lines. Geospatial data referenced to different datums, or more correctly, different geographic coordinate systems will have different coordinates for the same location on the surface of the earth. When you are working on GIS projects, you will need to pay attention to the datum(s) of existing data sets since using data with different datums can impact your analysis and how your data lines up on your map. If you are working with data sets that are based off different datums, you'll convert all of your data to a common datum.
Vertical datums provide a standard reference point for measuring elevations, for example mean sea level.
Learn more about datums
What is a datum? (NOAA): Introduction to horizonal and vertical datums and their relationship to the National Ocean Services' geodetic survey work.
New Datums Replacing NAVD 88 and NAD 83 (NOAA): The National Geodetic Survey is currently in the process of replacing NAD83 and NAVD88 with four new terrestrial reference frames and a geopotential datum.
Nature of Geographic Information Scales and Transformations: Data usually comprises an array of numbers. Spatial data is similar, but it also includes numerical information that allows you to position it on earth. These numbers are part of a coordinate system that provides a frame of reference for your data to locate features on the surface of the earth, to align your data relative to other data, to perform spatially accurate analysis, to add to and edit the data, and to create maps.
Coordinate Reference Systems and Map Projections
A datum is one component of a coordinate reference system. A coordinate reference system helps GIS software like ArcGIS Pro interpret your data by telling the software where your data is located in the world and how to display your data on a flat surface like a map. Common Coordinate Reference systems include x, y and z.
Geographic coordinate systems tell the software where on the surface of a reference ellipsoid features are located by providing latitude and longitude coordinates. The measurement units of geographic coordinate systems are angular, and units are degrees, minutes, and seconds. Projected coordinate systems tell GIS software how to take the geographic coordinate information and represent it on a flat surface like a map using specific linear measurement units, and directives for how to orient the data by providing shape, area, and direction information. The measurement units for projected coordinate systems are linear, for example meters or feet. The surface of the earth is not a perfect sphere and can be best represented by an ellipsoid. Map projections are mathematical algorithms that project the representative spheroid on a flat surface. Different algorithms or projections will prioritize shape, area, or direction.
Software for creating maps and conducting spatial analysis
(ESRI) ArcGIS Pro and QGIS are the most popular mapping and spatial analysis software available. ESRI products, including ArcGIS Pro, are used extensively by local and federal government agencies in the US and to varying extents at an international level. QGIS offers excellent functionality and is preferred by those who advocate for open-source software.
ESRI products ArcGIS online, Business Analyst Online, Web Apps, Experience Builder, and Dashboards are easy to use and don’t have a steep learning curve. Online maps and web apps that have been created with your university (paid) ArcGIS user account can be transferred to a free and public account after you are no longer affiliated with the university. One caveat is that if you want to share your work with the general public, for some web apps may require users to create a free public account to view the maps.
Experience Builder (navigate via the tabs in the horizontal ribbon) Note: The maps in this example were embedded as static and the interactive option was not enabled.
Leaflet
Leaflet 1 is an open-source JavaScript library for mobile-friendly interactive maps. It gives you code to create interactive mobile friendly web maps. Leaflet does not provide any data for you, rather it is a framework for showing and interacting with map data, but it's up to you to provide that data, including a basemap. Here is where Open Street Maps come in as it is often used as the basemap. You can make your own maps by providing the data, text with information for each location, and the location’s latitude and longitude coordinates. Leaflet has a well-documented API that is more flexible than Google’s API.
Leaflet can be used to create interactive maps, with search and pop-up capabilities: Plugins - Leaflet - a JavaScript library for interactive maps (leafletjs.com). A searchable point map works best for showing multiple locations, where users can search by name or proximity to a location, or filter by category, with an optional list view. Depending on how you develop this, you may need to get a free Google Maps API key.
Google
A straightforward way to use Google 1 and add your locations is with “Google My Maps”. Here is a tutorial. “Google My Maps” has many well-known benefits. Issues include glitches when moving/editing points or polygons, and limits to number of layers/points.
There is an important distinction to be made between “Google My Maps” and “Google Maps”. “Google My Maps” is recommended for showing an itinerary. You can add your starting point and locations you wish to visit. The itinerary can be sued to guide your travel but you can’t get directions on it.
Google has different public mapping options with or without the use of “directions”.
Additional Information: Adding businesses and commercial locations to Google. Posting a business on Google Maps is free. Google offers a free "Google My Business" service that allows businesses to create and manage a listing on Google Maps and Google Search. The basic listing is provided at no cost. However, businesses can optionally purchase paid features (for pop-up ads) to enhance their listing and drive more visibility, but the core Google Maps listing itself does not have a direct cost.
1 We do not provide instructional or research support for these resources.
GIS Data Sources through Esri Software
ArcGIS Business Analyst Online provides access to demographic (US Census), business, and point of interest data. This software encompasses a wide variety of datasets that are updated quarterly, semiannually, annually and with the decennial US census. Additionally, census data for a limited number of international locations is also available. Point of interest data available in BAO is provide by Data Axle and Foursquare.
ArcGIS Online provides access to ArcGIS Living Atlas of the World, a collection of geographic information from around the globe. It includes maps, apps, and data layers to support your work. The Living Atlas includes satellite imagery, basemaps, demographics and lifestyle, landscape, boundaries and places, transportation, earth observations, urban systems, oceans, and historical maps. Login with university
ArcGIS credentials will be required for some sites.
The following section contains a guide with GIS data sources provided by US Federal, State, and local agencies. Additionally, the guide provides GIS data sources provided by non-governmental organizations and by countries across all continents.
A. GIS for Marine Science/Coastal Ecosystems/Oceanography
NOAA Digital Coast (elevation, land cover, weather, climate, hazards, imagery, socioeconomic boundaries)
The World Ocean Database (WOD) is world's largest collection of uniformly formatted, quality controlled, publicly available ocean profile data
The World Ocean Atlas (WOA) is a collection of temperature, salinity, oxygen, phosphate, silicate, and nitrate means based on profile data from the WOD
B. Marine Conservation
The World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA). The WDPA is updated monthly and can be downloaded using the button in the top right of the page. For subsequent work in Esri software, choose the geodatabase format.
Ecologically and Biologically Significant Areas (EBSAs) are areas within Canada's oceans that have been identified through formal scientific assessments as having special biological or ecological significance.
This resource was developed by the USGS in partnership with Esri and the Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON). These data were developed as part of a Group on Earth Observations (GEO) initiative called GEO Ecosystems (GEO ECO) and is associated with a GEO ECO task to develop global coastal ecosystems data. The data allows for the visualization and query of any stretch of coastline on Earth, except for Antarctica. The underlying data are 4 million 1 km or shorter coastal segments, each of which is attributed with values from ten ecological settings variables representing the adjacent ocean, the adjacent land, and the coastline itself.
Environmental Justice Index (EJI) uses data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.S. EPA, the U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration, and the U.S. C.D.C. to rank the cumulative impacts of environmental injustice on health for every census tract. The EJI ranks each tract on 36 environmental, social, and health factors and groups them into three overarching modules and ten different domains. - https://onemap.cdc.gov/portal/apps/sites/#/eji-explorer
CDC WONDER. To create maps, choose the desired WONDER database, select desired date range, complete form request and click send at the bottom. Navigate to “Results” and “Map” tabs. - https://wonder.cdc.gov/
CDC ATSDR Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) is a place-based index, database, and mapping application designed to identify and quantify communities experiencing social vulnerability. It includes demographic and socioeconomic factors that adversely affect communities that encounter hazards and other stressors. - https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/placeandhealth/svi/index.html
HRSA Area Resources Files. Get information from over 50 data sources on Health Care Professions, Health Facilities, Population Characteristics, Economics, Health Professions Training, Hospital Utilization, Hospital Expenditures, and Environment at the county, state, and national levels. - https://data.hrsa.gov/topics/health-workforce/ahrf
NCI GIS Portal for Cancer Research provides tools for mapping and downloading cancer statistics, risk factors, cancer related tobacco policy data, and the information related to geographic disparities in cancer. - https://gis.cancer.gov/
D. Environment & Ecology
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species - https://ow.ly/TRrk50QeGyV
The National Atlas – The USGS National Atlas Program has ended. However, over three hundred datasets from the National Atlas can be downloaded from EarthExplorer (free registration required), under digital maps.
E. World
Natural Earth - Free vector and raster (country and administrative boundaries) map data at 1:10m, 1:50m, and 1:110m scales
WorldPop Hub. Peer-reviewed research and methods for the construction of open and high resolution geospatial data. - https://hub.worldpop.org/
WorldPop Hub. Population counts for 240 countries. Estimated number of people per grid cell at a resolution of 3-arc seconds or approximately 100 meters – https://hub.worldpop.org/geodata/listing?id=78
NOAA GOES Image Viewer is an easy-to-use online tool for accessing near real-time data images of the Earth's Western Hemisphere. Data is available from any of sixteen wavebands plus three composite sets. Data images are updated every five minutes - https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/GOES/index.php
H. Climate and Weather Forecasting
IPCC Data Distribution Centre provides access to climatic data including climate observations and models, environmental data and scenarios. - http://www.ipcc-data.org/index.html
National Weather Service GIS Viewer provides many of the National Weather Service data sets in formats that can be imported directly into GIS or your own custom map viewers or web pages. Data formats include downloadable shapefiles and KML formats, web services, and our basemaps in shapefile format - https://viewer.weather.noaa.gov/
J. United Nations (UN) & International Census Data
UNEP Environmental Data Explorer. Includes global forest cover, global potential evapotranspiration, global average monthly temperatures, dams, watershed boundaries, and much more. Use the advanced search to select geospatial data sets. -
Job Title: GIS Services Student Bi-Weekly
Department: Research Data & Open Scholarship, Richter Library
Created/Revision: 1/7/2025
Contact: Dr. Larissa Montás Bravo, l.montas@umiami.edu
CORE JOB SUMMARY
The GIS Services Student employee performs a variety of functions and support activities for the GIS unit within the Research Data & Open Scholarship Department of the University of Miami Libraries to facilitate and improve its operations. The GIS Services Student assists with GIS Consultations in the Digital Scholar’s Lab on the 3rd floor of Richter Library and assists with the creation and review of instructional materials and other department initiatives as required. The student employee provides assistance to walk-in students who request consultations during posted consultation hours while other tasks may be operated remotely as appropriate.
CORE JOB FUNCTIONS
Assists with GIS consultations in the Digital Scholar’s Lab.
Completes training to improve skills in the use of relevant GIS and spatial analysis software.
Supports the GIS Services leadership with tasks.
Assists department with creation and review of instructional materials.
Assists department with coordination of GIS workshops and related tasks.
Supports and assists instructors during GIS Services workshops. May require working occasional evening hours to support scheduled instruction.
Adheres to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguards University assets.
This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities as necessary.
CORE QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
Enrolled in a University of Miami undergraduate or graduate program
Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes:
Knows at least two GIS software programs. For example, ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS online.
Willingness to complete training to improve existing skills and learn new GIS software programs.
Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
Ability to maintain effective interpersonal relationships.
Skill in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail.
This position actively interacts with students that walk-in during posted consultation hours requesting assistance with GIS work.
A Librarian
