GIS Programming, Lab 3: Python Fundamentals, Part 1

This week we learned more about the Python language, different functions and different methods that it has to offer.  I learned ways to make writing scripts more accurate and how let Python help you along.  We went more into depth with strings, variables, statements & expressions.

For this weeks lab, we had to write our own script that would eventually result in a number that is triple the length of our last names.  We initially started with our full name.  After writing/running MY script, I came up with 21.  Johnson = 7 letters. 7 x 3 = 21.  Success! The above image is simply the result of running my script in PythonWin.

Applications in GIS, Lab 3: Tsunami

This week in lab, we continued working with natural hazards, however, turned our focus on Tsunami's and their large amount of destruction.  We centered our attention on the March 11th tsunami that struck Japan due to a 9.0 magnitude earthquake.  If you remember, it caused severe damage to the Fukushima Power Plant facility.  Because the power plants cooling systems were knocked out, it created the possibility of nuclear radiation leaks.  It was recommended that you evacuate if you were located within 50-miles of the plant.

Cities that needed to be evacuated after the March 11, 2011 tsunami in Japan.

Based on the information provided and the map (above) created, there were several cities that fell within that range.  The evacuation zones were broken down into different mile increments: 3, 7, 15, 30, 40 & 50.

In this lab, we created a geodatabase, which can help keep data organized amidst potential chaos.  In the actual event of a natural hazard and the above information needs to be produced and distributed in a timely manner, it is key to know where you're data is.

Applications in GIS, Lab 2: Lahars

In this week's lab, we focused on the specific natural hazard of lahars.  Lahars are defined as debris flows and/or mudflows created by volcanic activity.  By focusing on Mt. Hood, located in Oregon, we had to create a map showing the potential inundation zones of lahars.  Below, you can see a digital elevation map containing the three major rivers surrounding Mt. Hood.  This is also the probable path of the lahars.    

 With further study, additional data and various GIS tools used, we were able to pinpoint the schools and total population that would be affected by these lahars.  We used a .5 mile buffer of the inundation zones.  As you can see, the inundation zones are now color coded based on their population provided by the US Census.  I also included cities, major highways and railroads.  Schools that fall within the .5 mile buffer zone of the inundation areas were also labeled.

Maps like these can help in mitigation planning in the event of volcanic activity and could potentially save lives. These were established by using a variety of hydrology, math and other tools.

GIS Programming, Lab 2: Geoprocessing in ArcGIS

This week we played around with ModelBuilder in ArcMaps, writing scripts using various ArcGIS tools and we created our own toolbox.  It was interesting and fun learning these things.  I can definitely see how they'll be helpful in the future - especially the batch processing!

The above figure is a screen shot of the resulting shapefile that was created by the Model I built.  Using ModelBuilder, I narrowed down the types of soil to those that are "not prime farmland" and then erased those from the basin shapefile.  The result leaves the soils that are prime farmlands.

We also learned how to share toolboxes and what is required in doing so.

GIS Programming, Lab 1: Intro to Python

Starting a new semester, my first lab of GIS Programming was a basic introduction to the Python programming language.  It is a more basic and easier to use language than something like C++ or Visual Basic.  It allows users to express code in fewer lines and commands.  Our first experience was using the interface PythonWin.  Opening the previously written script and running the program created folders for this class for the entire semester.  In one quick click - this was created.

As you can see, located in the S: drive, a folder named GISProgramming was created.  Inside that folder, additional folders were created to contain all of the work for the next 12 weeks.  

I have little experience with programming and the experience I did have was not a pleasant one.  I am encouraged, however, that Python is simpler than C++.  I look forward to having a more enjoyable experience with Python and using it in my future GIS career.

GIS Application: Marine Conservation

The type of GIS application that most peaks my interest is marine conservation.  This would fall into the conservation industry.  According to ESRI, "GIS is used around the world to acquire and manage oceanic data as well as analyze and map marine habitats, water quality, species distribution and population, species behavior, pollution, fishing grounds, and other factors that impact marine life. Esri’s ArcGIS software suite is a tool that helps visualize and understand areas in danger of biodiversity loss, habitat degradation, and resource depletion. It also aids in monitoring and examining the effectiveness of conservation practices and protected areas to ensure the preservation of the earth's oceans."

With this application, there are various problems that are addressed including habitat destruction, coral bleaching, sustainable fisheries and more.  It is nice that it is such a broad industry.  The one problem that I would love to focus on is the plastic distribution in the oceans.  GIS could be used to solve this problem by mapping and analyzing these areas. Where is it collecting (which gyres), how is it affecting marine life, what is being done, are those methods effective, what else can be done?

This is an example of plastic pollution mapping provided by Algalita - a marine research institute based in CA.

I have always had a love for the ocean.  I've known for a while that I want to do something to help protect it.  After doing some research on my own years back, I discovered how devastating plastics are and how large of a problem it is.  I would love to get involved using my GIS skills and discover ways to reduce and hopefully eliminate plastic pollution.

I want to learn more about the actual application of GIS in relation to plastic pollution in the oceans.  I want to find some case studies that have been done and see what kind of information it has produced.

Intro to GIS, Final Project

Click here for the Powerpoint Presentation.

Click here for the slide-by-slide commentary.

Cartographic Skills, Final Project

This map shows the average composite ACT score by state throughout the nation.  The scores range between 18.9 and 23.9.  The percent of graduates tested ranges from 9% - 100%.  New England has a low participation rate while maintaining high scores.  Comparatively, majority of the mid-west has a higher participation rate with varying scores.  The national average score is 21.1 with 45% of graduates tested.  

This is my final project of the semester for Cartographic Skills.  The goal of this project was to find and present a map showing two different datasets.  I decided to use a colored choropleth map with proportional circles.  The graduated colors represent the percent of graduates tested in each state and the proportional circles represent the average composite score of the ACT.  Using these two designs together allows the data to be compared easily and side-by-side.  This allows the reader to immediately identify any trends.