Hi! My name is Claire Heumasse, and Iām a Junior from Scarborough, ME. I am majoring in Biology at Ohio Wesleyan University and am involved in the Cheer team, Women in Science club, and Rock climbing club. In my free time, I enjoy ice skating and reading books.
In reading Schuurmans first chapter of GIS: A Short Introduction, I expected a boring, technical overview, but I was surprised by how easy it was to understand and how interesting it turned out to be. Schuurman highlights how GIS is not only a practical tool but also a lens to understand and analyze complex spatial data. I also found the historical development of GIS fascinating, particularly how overlay techniques evolved from physical maps to digital platforms. What stood out most was the discussion on GISās versatility. From urban planning to public health, the potential applications of GIS are seemingly endless. I was especially intrigued by how GIS is used to map crime patterns and analyze their spatial relationshipsāa tool that can influence public policy and improve safety.
For the first GIS application, I explored its use in Indonesia. GIS is employed to monitor deforestation in Kalimantan and Sumatra. By mapping forest cover changes over time, researchers can identify illegal logging hotspots and assess the impact of deforestation on biodiversity. This application is crucial for protecting endangered species, such as orangutans, that rely on these habitats.
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Source: https://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=60e5dfae803c48ac932a9117f28c6694
For the second application, I searched ācrime mapping GISā and found an example in Houston, Texas. GIS is being used to analyze violent crime patterns in the city, helping law enforcement allocate resources effectively. By creating heatmaps of high-crime areas, officials can identify correlations between crime rates and urban features like poorly lit streets or abandoned buildings. For instance, GIS data has highlighted specific neighborhoods where targeted interventions, such as increased police presence and community programs, have led to measurable reductions in crime.
Source: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/instant/sidebar/index.html?appid=1427304b9e6048a488e0be90b3aa1cd7