About GIS Day at IU

On November 14, 2012, Indiana University will celebrate GIS Day in the lobby of the Herman B Wells Library in Bloomington, with a host of informational booths and activities to show off the exciting work that Indiana researchers and staff, businesses, non-profits, and government agencies are doing with Geographic Information Systems. Following the main event John Steinmetz, the Indiana State Geologist and Director of the Indiana Geological Suvery, will present a 4pm keynote address entitled LiDAR for Smarties: All you need to know so you won’t have to ask.

This is the 14th anniversary of GIS Day, the worldwide, annual event celebrating GIS technology and its applications. Geographic Information Systems, or GIS, connects people with the geointelligence they need to work more efficiently and make better decisions. GIS supports a geographic approach to problem-solving. From Google and Bing Maps technology, to systems that monitor the spread of disease and manage environmental emergencies, GIS technologies are tools that help people do a better job and make a difference.

At IU’s local event, GIS professionals and educators will talk with attendees about the GIS job market, training and certification opportunities, and the many ways that GIS technologies are shaping the way we live, learn and do business. GIS professionals will showcase topics including deforestation and reforestation studies, environmental and library science applications, and mapping services for the City of Bloomington and Monroe County. Representatives from the Indiana Geological Survey and the Indiana Geographic Information Council will demonstrate the IndianaMap and provide information regarding Indiana's new LiDAR and orthophotography projects.

IU’s GIS Day Celebration will include fun, GIS-based games and giveaways including an exhibit of satellite images displaying world famous locations. The Indiana University Geocaching Club will host a geocaching event with the winner receiving a $50 VISA gift card provided by 39 Degrees North.