Eastern Shore Regional GIS Cooperative Hosts GIS Day Nov. 18

SALISBURY, MD---The Eastern Shore Regional GIS Cooperative (ESRGC) at Salisbury University celebrates global GIS Day with an open house and a talk by a representative of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Thursday, November 18.

Michael Byrne, geographic information officer for the FCC, speaks about national broadband mapping and healthcare at 11:15 a.m. at the ESRGC (1220 South Division St. Salisbury, MD, 21801).  A Lower Shore GIS Community Showcase is 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at the same location, featuring other presentations, demonstrations and interactive displays.

Held annually during the National Geographic Society’s Geography Awareness Week, GIS Day is designed to teach people about Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology and the real-world applications in many fields. The showcase allows Lower Shore residents to learn more about GIS in action in their region.

GIS is a computer-based mapping tool that turns database information into visual images on a map. This enables scientists, planners, elected officials and citizens to make informed decisions about their communities.

GIS is used worldwide to solve problems related to the environment, health care, land use, business, education and public safety.  Power supplies, fire trucks, patrol cars and delivery trucks all function more efficiently because of GIS.

The showcase, including the talk, is free and the public is invited.  For more information call 410-677-5482 or e-mail elsilva@salisbury.edu.  For details about international events, visit www.gisday.com.