1. Mapping. Maps are in digital formats and are often called "layers" because each map normally addresses one topic. For example, roads, vegetation types, or historic sites. The map shows us where things are located.
2. Data. The digital data tells us something about the things that are represented on the map layers. For a road layer, the data may include the road number, who is responsible for maintaining it, how wide it is and so on.
3. Software. The very complex and specialized software allows the user to see the map on the computer monitor and to manipulate the map and data. The strength in this is that the software allows the user to create useful information from data that is not particularly enlightening. For example, given a digital elevation layer, a habitat type layer, and an average rainfall layer, a knowledgeable user could create a map showing the most likely places to find the highly valued matsutake mushroom.

Available GIS Maps and Data

• Winema National Forest
• State of Oregon