Dept of Conservation Launches DOC Maps Website to Simplify Public Access to GIS Mapping Data

The California Department of Conservation (DOC) today unveiled a new geospatial data and map website, DOC Maps, at https://maps.conservation.ca.gov, to provide easy access to its prolific collection of GIS-managed spatial data. Geospatial datasets previously housed in DOC’s four divisions and spanning a wide range of subjects are now accessible in one intuitive website offering visitors interactive, curated, and searchable mapping data.

“Simplifying access to GIS geospatial data and web maps demonstrates the science-driven foundation of our work,” DOC Director David Bunn said. “This powerful tool enables the DOC to be a resource for all Californians, who can use this information to inform local decision-making and state efforts to support public safety, the environment, and the economy.”

DOC has Geographic Information Systems-managed data about geology, seismic hazards, mineral resources, and mining; agriculture and land use; and oil, gas, and geothermal energy.

A GIS database provides the ability to create, maintain, edit, query, analyze, and display data based on either locations on the ground or attributes within DOC’s databases. For example, GIS allows a user to look at a map of active faults, and add data layers showing the location of nearby schools and hospitals. DOC Maps provides access to more than 1000 GIS datasets, 15 interactive web maps, and 14 data services, all with supporting documentation. DOC encourages public use of its data in building web applications or conducting independent GIS analyses.

Nathaniel Roth oversees the Department’s use of GIS, including the move to centralize all open data into one web portal. Roth and his team will implement rolling updates to DOC Maps based on the availability of new mapping data and feedback from site visitors. Feedback can be sent to gis@conservation.ca.gov.

“We’re excited to share this robust collection of open data and look forward to getting ideas about improving ease of use and accessibility,” Roth said. “It’s our hope that DOC Maps will support the work of local planners, researchers, the GIS community, and also be easy to use for students and interested groups.”

Supporting Media

Image 1- Regulatory Maps: The Regulatory Maps Section of CGS’s Information Warehouse provides easy access to the regulatory zoning maps and data from the Seismic Hazards Program.

Image 2 - Fault Activity Map: The Fault Activity Map of California (published in 2010) provides an overview of the state’s active faults in an interactive web map.

Image 3 - Interactive Viewers: Interactive views allow visitors to explore the department’s geospatial data with nothing more than a web browser and internet connection.

 

 

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