ES341 Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems

Class Syllabus (Adobe Acrobat Format)

Winter Term 2013 Syllabus
  • Updated Class Schedule (Jan. 11, 2013)

    2012-2013 Finals Schedule

    Click Here... to access the Moodle login page

    Bulletin Board **Check Here for Class News and Events**

    VMWare View Client - WOU UCS Instructions for Virtual Desktop Interface to ArcGIS 10.2.2
  • Link to UCS VMWare Download Page
  • Click Here to Download VMWare View Client 32-bit (note: rename *.xxx extension to *.exe and run to install)
  • Click Here to Download VMWare View Client 64-bit (note: rename *.xxx extension to *.exe and run to install)

    New Link: USGS Historical Topographic Maps / GIS Download (Nov. 2014)

    New Link: Careers in GIS and GPS (Youtube - Colorado State, Sept. 2014)

    New Link: Oregon Geospatial / Oregon Imagery Services (replacement of Navigator Aug. 2014)

    New Link: DOGAMI State Geologic Data Model (ver. 5.0; *.zip, 176 Mb)

    New Link: Installing the WOU Virtual Desktop Link / ArcGIS Remote Access via View Client

    New Link: GIS Careers.COM Job Site

    New Link: Polk County GIS Data Download

    Final grades are in... have a good spring break!
  • Click Here for Final Grades


    Class Notes

    The class notes are organized according to their order of occurrence throughout the week. They are available in Adobe Acrobat Reader (PDF) Format. Acrobat Reader is invoked as a plug-in within the web browser environment. It is available on most machines at WOU. Acrobat Reader can be downloaded for free by returning to Taylor's Home Page

    Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

    A Review of Topographic Map Principles
  • Reading on Mean Sea Level and the Geoid

    Introduction to ESRI ArcGIS Software
  • Taylor's Choice - Glossary of Selected GIS Terms and Concepts
  • Link to ESRI GIS Glossary of Terms

  • Sample GIS Data - Jan. 16 Class Demo (Monmouth-Independence - UTM - *.zip format)

    New reference resource: Overview of Key ArcGIS Files and File Extensions (reference sheet)

    New:ArcGIS 10.1 Tips, Shortcuts and Hot Buttons

    Map Projections
  • Oregon Lambert Custom Map Projections (from Oregon Geospatial Web Site)
  • Overview of Projections and Datums (from SeisSoft website)

  • World Projections Reference List - ArcGIS 9.3 (*.pdf)

    Oregon Map Projection: Instructions for Converting from NAD1983_HARN to UTM Zone 10 N NAD 1927 (for use with OLC Lidar data)

  • World Projections Reference List - ArcGIS 9.3 (*.doc)

    Youtube Link: Working with Map Projections and Coordinate Systems in ArcGIS

    Vector Data Structures and Input
  • Steps for Creating Shape Files in ArcGIS9.0

    Raster Data Structures

    Overview of GIS Metadata Standards
  • FGDC National Metadata Standards (Guidance Document)

    Class notes - introduction to database management systems (DBMS)
  • Instructions for Joining NRCS Soil Tables to Feature Classes
  • Youtube Link: Introduction to Geodatabases in ArcGIS

    Introduction to Data Editing Tools in ArcGIS
  • New:ArcGIS Training Video - Getting Started with Editing

    Identifying and Managing Special Data File Types
  • DRG Example (*.zip)
  • DEM Example (*.zip)
  • E00 Example (*.zip)
  • Grid Example (*.zip)
  • DEM Example (Laurel Mountain Quad)(*.zip)
  • Grid Example (*.zip)
  • 1-m Lidar DEM Example HJ Andrews (*.zip; ESRI Grid Format)
  • Monmouth-Independence 1-m Bare Earth DEM (ESRI Grid format)

    Quick Start Guide to Creating Shape Files and Geoprocessing
  • ESRI Video: Overview of Geoprocessing

  • Monmouth Quad DRG (*.zip; raster; UTM Zone10N NAD1927 meters)
  • Monmouth Quad DEM (*.zip; raster; UTM Zone10N NAD1927 meters)
  • Monmouth Quad Geology (*.zip; shapefile; UTM Zone10N NAD1927 meters)
  • Monmouth Quad Geology Southern Half (*.zip; shapefile; UTM Zone10N NAD1927 meters)
  • Luckiamute Watershed Subbasins (*.zip; shapefile; UTM Zone10N NAD1927 meters)
  • Lewisburg Quad DEM (*.zip; raster; UTM Zone10N NAD1927 meters)

    Introduction to Raster Analysis
  • ESRI Training Video: Introduction to Spatial Analyst Extension

    Overview of LIDAR Topographic Survey Methods (Hill et al., 2000)
  • LIDAR Seminar Summary Notes: OSU, April 28, 2009 (Faux-Watershed Sciences)
    Monmouth-Independence 1-m Bare Earth DEM (ESRI Grid format)

  • Basics of Lidar Data Processing Using ArcGIS

  • LIDAR Mapping Fact Sheet

  • Link to WOU Lidar Resource Page

  • LiDAR data for the Intermountain Seismic Belt (ID-WY-UT; *.kml files)
  • LiDAR data for the Intermountain Seismic Belt (ID-WY-UT; Arc Binary Grid Format; filtered ("bare earth," fg*); unfiltered (ug*) 0.5 m DEM)

    ESRI Online Course Availability (Updated Jan. 2013)


    Class Slide Shows

  • Introduction to GIS Concepts
  • Map Elements
  • Vector and Raster Data Models
  • Map Projections
  • Data Errors and Topological Editing
  • Introduction to Data Analysis
  • Introduction to Image Analysis
  • Geographic Position Systems and GIS Technology
  • Cartography and Map Design
  • Introduction to LIDAR Mapping Technology


    Additional Reading (Clarke, 2003)

  • Introduction to GIS Concepts
  • GIS Data Formats
  • Map Projections and Scales
  • Databases
  • Making Maps
  • Spatial Analysis
  • Data Entry
  • GIS Software Platforms
  • GIS Case Studies


    Textbook Links/ArcGIS Installation - Password Protected (Updated Jan. 7, 2013)

    ArcGIS10 Student Edition - Installation Instructions

    Instructional Videos (links to text and videos)

    Text Tutorial Data - 5th Edition (right-click, "save link as", save to H:\folder, rename *.xxe extension to *.exe, double click file, browse to folder, and "start" to unzip files)

    Addtional GTK ArcGIS Tutorials

  • Projecting Data in ArcGIS
  • Making Maps in ArcGIS
  • Geoprocessing Essentials
  • Working with Map Templates

    GIS Case Studies

    Taylor et al. 2012 - Novel uses of GIS for fingerprint analysis (URISA GISPro 2012)


    Lab Exercises and Data

  • Instructions for WOU Terminal Server Access from Home

    Introductory Example Data

  • Example GIS Data (compressed example.zip)
  • Sample GIS Data - Jan. 16 Class Demo (Monmouth-Independence - UTM - *.zip format)

    Week 2 Preview Assignment / Terminal Server Instructions

    Key Word Review Exercises

    Introductory Concept - Key Word Summary Exercise
    Key Word Summary Exercise Part 2

    Lab Reference Materials and Support Software

    Unit Conversion Tables
  • Angular Measurement Units

  • WOU UTM Basemap

  • Download Winzip 7.0 File Compression Software (rt-click, save target as, rename/save file winzip.exe, run/install)

    Review of Topographic Maps

    Monmouth Quadrangle Exercise
  • In-Class Exercise: Lat-Lon Conversions

  • Monmouth Quadrangle Image (scanned topo quad, *.tif)
  • Georegistered Monmouth Digital Raster Graphic (DRG *.zip - extract *.tif, *.tfw)

    Introduction to Geographic Information Systems

  • Basics of Vector / Raster Data Structures
  • Introduction to Contouring and Digital Elevation Models
  • ES341 Lab: Introduction to Georeferencing, Map Themes and Spatial Associations

    Sample GIS Data - Jan. 16 Class Demo (Monmouth-Independence - UTM - *.zip format)

    New! ES341 Lab: Introduction to Georeferencing, Map Themes and Spatial Associations

    Map Projection Exercises

    Click here to download Newberry Volcano Geologic Map - Unknown Projection

  • Managing Oregon Map Projections in Arc Map

  • Map Projections for Oregon (Oregon Geospatial Web Site)

  • Monmouth Quad Geology (Version 2 Jan 30, 2013) (Zip File)
  • Monmouth Quad Roads (Zip File)
  • Monmouth Quad Vegetation (Zip File)
  • Monmouth Quad DRG (Zip File)

  • Shape File of Oregon Counties in UTM (use as projection check)
  • Shape File of Oregon Counties in Custom Oregon Lambert (use as projection check)
  • Shape File of Oregon Counties in State Plane (North) (use as projection check) Unknown Projection Exercise
  • Newberry Geology Data - Unknown Projection Data

    Geoprocessing In-Class Tutorial Data

    Spatial Data Editing / Geoprocessing Tutorial Notes
  • Geoprocessing Tutorial Data (geoprdata.zip)

    Spatial Analyst and Elevation Models

    How to Create a Blended Color - Painted DEM with Hillshading
  • Luckiamute Digital Elevation Model Data (UTM, Zone 10N, meters)
    Using ArcScene to Create a Fly-Over Animation from DEM

    ES341 In-Class Tutorial: Grid-Raster Conversion of Climate Data

  • PRISM Climate Data Link
  • Methodology for Extracting Prism Data
  • Sample Grid Data Set: US Precipitation Averages 1981-2010 (GCS GRS_1980)
  • ESRI Data - US States

    Lab / Tutorial Answer Keys


    Final Project Instructions and Data

    Winter 2013 Final Project Instructions
  • Final Project Submission Instructions Winter 2013

    Click Here to Download Coast Range Drainage Basins (UTM - Zip Shape File)
    Click Here to Download Coast Range Streams (UTM - Zip Shape File)

    Shape File of Oregon Counties in UTM (use as projection check)
    Shape File of Oregon Counties in Custom Oregon Lambert (use as projection check)
    Shape File of Oregon Counties in State Plane (North) (use as projection check)

    Shape File of Oregon Bedrock Geology in UTM

    Oregon Annual Precipitation (inches, 1981-2010) [*.grd ESRI Raster Format; Lat/Long-Dec Deg NAD1983 GCS_GRS_1980]
    U.S. Annual Average Precipitation (inches, 1981-2010) [*.grd ESRI Raster format; *.htm (metadata); Lat/Long-Dec Deg NAD1983 GCS_GRS_1980]

    Shape File of Oregon 1:24,000 Quadrangles in UTM (use as projection check)
    Oregon and Portions of Surrounding States - 1:24,000 Quadrangle Names and USGS Codes (MS Excel File)
    Oregon and Portions of Surrounding States - 1:24,000 Quadrangle Names and USGS Codes (PDF File)

    Interactive USGS Quad Index Code Locator Map

    Final Project Archive / Student Work Samples (2007-2009-2011)


    Lab Portfolio Guidelines

  • Midterm Digital Portfolio Checklist (Feb. 11, Winter 2013)
  • Example of Model Style Digital Lab Portfolio Deliverable

  • Click Here for Final Portfolio Assignment Checklist

    Exam Study Guides

    Winter 2013 Midterm Exam Study Guide
    Final Study Guide (Winter 2013)

    Winter 2009 Final Exam Study Guide

    Web-Based Training Courses

  • ESRI Online Course Availability (Updated Jan. 2013)

  • Link to GIS 4 Geomorphology Geomorphometry of Mountain Landscapes & Upland Watersheds (Morphometric Tutorials using ArcGIS10)


    GIS Software/Resources/Arc Tools/Extension Downloads

    FILEZILLA Freeware: Click here for instructions on downloading and installing Filezilla FTP Client - to transfer files back-and-forth from WOU H:\ drive to home

    Link to WOU ESRI ArcGIS License Page

    Link to USFS Fusion Software / Lidar processing

    Guide to Geospatial Analysis - Interactive Web Site (Smith et al., 2008)

    GIS Data Links / Map Theme Download Sites

    Oregon Data - Updated Links for Winter 2013

    Oregon Imagery Explorer (Updated Spring 2013)

    BLM GIS Data for Oregon
    Mosaiced 10 Meter DEMs for Oregon (9 tiles for the entire state)
    Oregon Geospatial Enterprise Office Data Library
    Oregon Geospatial Enterprise Office Home

    ODOT Dept. of Transportation GIS Data
    Oregon Explorer Spatial Data Library
    University of Oregon - 1:24000 DRGs, DEMs, DOQs for Oregon. Search graphically, by name, or by Ohio code
    University of Oregon - Downloadable GIS Data Resource Page

    USGS National Map Viewer and Data Download

    Oregon 10 Meter Digital Elevation Models - 9 large ArcInfo Grids
    Oregon Imagery Explorer - Streaming Imagery in ArcMap through a Web Map Service (WMS)
    Oregon Explorer Spatial Data Library
    Oregon USGS Digital Raster Graphics (DRG) Index - Libre Map Project
    Merged 24K DRGs of Oregon
    Oregon BLM GIS Data
    Oregon DOQ Index at OSU
    Oregon Geologic Map Data
    Willamette River Bathymetric Survey

    Soil Data Downloads - Natural Resources Conservation Service
  • Instructions for Joining NRCS Soil Tables to Feature Classes
    NRCS Geospatial Data Gateway

    Oregon Digital Orthophoto Quads (DOQs)
    Oregon Imagery Explorer - 2005 imagery downloadable
    Precipitation Data - Oregon State PRISM

    Oregon Coastal Atlas (Wright et al., 2011)

    Polk County Web Map (Gumtow et al.)

    Pacific Northwest Streamnet Hydrology and Fish Data (Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission)

    Oregon Spatial Data Library (updated links / new imagery Dec. 2009)
    Oregon Geospatial Data by County (Geocommunity.com)

    NRCS Soil Data Mart (soil surveys)
    NRCS Geospatial Gateway (soil surveys)

    State Geologic Maps from the USGS
    Oregon USGS DRGs from the Libre Map Project
    Oregon Imagery Explorer (OSU Natural Resources Digital Library)

    Oregon Lidar Consortium
    WebGIS Resource (7.5 Min DEMs available)

    Pacific Northwest Regional Ecosystem Office GIS Data (Northwest Forest Plan *.e00 files)

    UO Library GIS: Oregon 10-m DEM/DRG Quad Download Link
    USGS GIS Data for Willamette Basin
    OSU Digital Orthophoto Quad Library Index System
    CLAMS GIS Data (Oregon Coastal Landscape Analysis and Modeling Study) Library Index System
    OSU Research Forest GIS Data
    Oregon Dept. of Forestry GIS Data, Maps, and Tools

    University of Oregon Mallard GIS Spatial Library - Data Download
    University of Oregon - Oregon GIS Data

    Oregon Climate Service
    Oregon DOQ Photo Index (OSU Libraries)
    Corvallis FTP GIS Data
    NRCS Geospatial Gateway (soils data)
    University of Oregon 1:250,000 DEM Data

    GIS Data Depot - Oregon GIS Data
    GIS Data Depot - Main Page

    BLM - Oregon-Washington GIS Data
    BLM FTP - Oregon-Washington GIS Data Download Information Sheet with Links
    BLM FTP - Oregon 7.5-Minute DRG's Merged into 1-Degree Sheets
    BLM FTP - Oregon 10-m DEM's Merged into 1-Degree Sheets

    Oregon Seamless DEM FTP Site (Geodatabase)

    Washington Data

    Washington Dept. of Natural Resources GIS Data Center

    Washington DNR GIS Data Page

    Washington State Geologic Map (Shuster, 2005)
  • Map Unit Explanation (Shuster, 2005)

    Washington Dept. of Natural Resources GIS Data Link
    Washington State Geospatial Clearinghouse
    Puget Sound Lidar Consortium (High Resolution Digital Elevations Models)

    California Data

    Cal-Atlas Geospatial Clearinghouse

    GeoEarthScope Northern California LiDAR Project (NoCAL)
    California Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Portal
    CERES USGS 7.5 Minute California DRG's By County
    California Environmental Resoures Evaluation System
    California Environmental Information by Data Type

    National Data

    Open Topography Lidar Data

    US Fish and Wildlife Geospatial Data

    U.S. Census Bureau - Shapefiles
    2010 US Census Shapefile Pre-joined with Demographic Data

    NOAA National Weather Service Data (KML and Shapefile formats)
    NOAA Coastal Geospatial Data
    NOAA Coastal Data
    NOAA Coastal Lidar Data
    NOAA Natural Hazards: Tsunami, Earthquake, Volcano, Geothermal
    NOAA Geomagnetism, Magnetic Models, Declination Calculators
    NOAA Gravity
    NOAA Topography
    NOAA World Data Center for Solid Earth Geophysics
    NOAA Ecosystems Informatics, Soils, Groundcover

    USDA Web Soil Survey
    NRCS Soil Data Mart (soil surveys)
    NRCS Geospatial Gateway (soil surveys)

    U.S. Geological Survey LandSAT Program (free data archives)

    U.S. Geological Survey EROS Data Center

    State Geologic Maps from the USGS

    Federal Geospatial Data Clearinghouse
    WebGIS Resource (7.5 Min DEMs available)
    The National Map Geospatial Clearinghouse
    Cal State Northridge Electronic Map Library
    Cal State Northridge Electronic Map Library - Animation Download Links

    University of Oregon Library - State Link Listings of Downloadable Data
    USGS National Hydrography Spatial Dataset
    ArcView Tools for National Hydrography Dataset (USGS)

    NASA Space Shuttle Radar Topography
  • NASA Space Shuttle Radar Topography FTP Download Site

    U.S. EPA Geospatial Data
    ESRI GIS ArcData Online

    ESRI Geography Network

    GIS Community Data Depot
    Center For Advanced Spatial Technologies (CAST) - **Excellent Website**
    GISDataDepot Free Data Download Home Page
    GISDataDepot US - Statewide Data
    GISDataDepot United States - Nationwide Data

    GIS Lounge
    Open Source GIS Data Blog
    GeoCommunity GIS Data Source

    General GIS-Related Links

    National Center for Airborne Laser Mapping
    Oregon and Southwest Washington URISA (Urban and Regional Information Systems Association)
    Willamette Valley GIS Users Group
    Oregon Geographic Information Council
    Federal Geographic Data Committee (Federal GIS Coordination)
    Online Course Materials: Environmental Remote Sensing (Richard Beck, Univ. of Cincinnati)