Increasingly, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing - the mapping of features using imagery acquired either from an aircraft or a satellite - have become important tools for decision-making and the applied management of natural resources. Many federal agencies and NGOs rely on GIS and satellite data for their work and are starting to produce their own spatial databases. However, there are few training opportunities for wildlife managers to learn the applications of GIS in everyday management situations. We are offering a course for wildlife managers that provides hands-on experience in collection of data, GIS analysis of data, and map-making using the latest ESRI (ArcGIS) and ERDAS software.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
This short course will provide wildlife managers with a working knowledge about the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing to the monitoring and management of wildlife and forest vegetation. Exercises in establishing locations with a Global Positioning System (GPS), data input into a GIS, and spatial analysis techniques for GIS will provide hands-on and real world experience during the course. Based on examples about habitat selection in songbirds and white-tailed deer, course participants will learn how to:

• Collect GIS data in the field using survey techniques and GPS.
• Differentially correct GPS data.
• Input GPS data into GIS.
• Input field data into GIS.
• Use GIS for management of large data sets from multiple sources.
• Design and perform analysis using GIS data and spatial analysis techniques.
• Integrate data with ancillary data, such as satellite imagery, aerial photography, and government agency databases.

contact:
Vilmaliz Rodriguez Guzman
1500 Remount Road
Front Royal, VA 22630
540-635-6535 (GIS Lab)
540-635-6506 (FAX)
Email Contact

**Note: This introductory course will also be offered October 31- November 4, 2005.

The CRC offers an Advanced Course in Conservation GIS and Remote Sensing, April 25-29, 2005 and November 7-11, 2005.

The CRC will offer introductory and advanced courses taught in Spanish, "Introduccion al uso de SIG y Sensores Remotos en la Conservacion y Manejo de Vida Silvestre" and "Curso Avanzado en Uso de SIG y Sensores Remotos en Estudios de Cambio de Uso de la Tierra y su Impacto Sobre Especies Amenazadas" on August 22-26, 2005 and August 29 - September 2, 2005, respectively.

For more information on any of our courses please see:
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/ConservationAndScience/ConservationGIS/GIS_training/