GIS allows us to view, understand, question, interpret, and visualize spatial
data in many ways that reveal relationships, patterns, and trends in the form of
maps, globes, reports, and charts.
Geologists at the WSGS use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map and
analyze Wyoming’s geology. GIS allows the staff to combine the use of computers,
digital data, and specialized software to display, analyze, and store
information related to the Earth’s surface. Data sets may be thought of as
compatible layers that can be overlain and queried.
Click here for more information.
Current Projects & Data
Interactive Map Server
The GIS group created an
interactive
map server (IMS) covering the Powder River Basin in Wyoming. This allows the
user to interactively create and query maps of the Powder River Basin. This is
an easy-to-use, task-focused application to deliver dynamic maps and data via
the internet.
StateMap
WSGS geologists use GIS to create digital data sets and map layouts for the
StateMap project. The StateMap project produces bedrock and surficial geologic
maps of USGS 30'x60' quadrangles and 7 ½' quadrangles. More information about
the StateMap project can be found
here.
Online maps
The WSGS is working to provide online interactive maps, the first of which is in
conjunction with the
Powder River
Basin report. Additional online maps will follow. Planned projects include
an online industrial minerals map and a downloadable GIS data map.
Centralized database
GIS and IT staff are creating and populating a central GIS database in order to
provide internal and external users more streamlined access to data sets stored
and created at the WSGS.
Improvements and updates
The GIS staff is continually working to update and improve digital data sets
that have been created in the past, such as the
Oil and Gas Map of Wyoming
and other previously released geologic maps.
Animation
Animation of GIS data allows people to view data through time. An example of
temporal data visualization is that of well locations appearing in developing
oil and gas fields through a period of time. Examples of time-lapse animation
can be viewed by clicking the following links
Powder River Basin animation,
Atlantic Rim animation, or the
Pinedale Anticline animation.
(Requires Adobe Flash)
Downloadable Datasets
GIS datasets located on the
Downloadable GIS Data page are available for free
download from the WSGS website. Additional digital products are available for
some maps and reports produced by the WSGS through the
online store.