GIS-Based Data Management for Environmental Investigations
The Data Management Process
Environmental data management encompasses the collection and documentation of analytical and physical
information, sample tracking, production and maintenance of a comprehensive, electronic database, and
manipulation of this database for characterization of site conditions (Figure 1). The process begins with the
selection or design of a suitable, electronic basemap, development of templates and sorting parameters for
populating the database, and compilation of available, historic data. Once field work has commenced, the project
scientists begin tracking samples and documenting conditions at the site. Physical information (e.g., soil
descriptions, depth to groundwater, contacts between geologic units, etc.) is typically uploaded to the database as
it is received from the field; sample tracking data (e.g., sample ID, collection date, sampling interval, and
required tests), are electronically compiled (preprocessed) with analytical data for construction of import
templates and database uploading. Once the data have been validated and/or reviewed, real-time analysis of
analytical and hydrogeologic data can begin.
Figure 1. Environmentaldata managementflow chart
System Software
The software used for this study consisted of an integrated collection of off-the-shelf packages and customized
macros designed to reduce the costs associated with the production, maintenance, and manipulation of complex,
environmental databases. The core software, GISKeyTM,was developed by GIS\Solutions of Concord, CA for the
management, interpretation, and visualization of geologic, hydrologic, and chemical data. This windows-based,
desktop application uses a Visual FoxPro@database (with a Visual Basic@interface), integrated with AutoCAD@
using Visual Basic”, Lisp, and ACS/ARX (versions of C++). Information in the database is linked to AutoCAD@
drawings via exploration locations, such as soil borings, wells, and sampling points.
GIS\KeyT”includes automated query tools and graphics applications for reporting (graphing, mapping, tabulating,
and exporting); identification of suspect data (e.g., blank contamination, action level exceedences); and drawing
management, as well as user-editable libraries of chemical names, CAS numbers, analytical test methods, and
standards. Because of its open architecture and use of commercial off-the-shelf products, GIS\KeyT”can be used
with other graphics platforms (i.e. ArcView@),attached to other database repositories, or queried directly using
numerous third-party database tools (USEPA, 1994).
Microso~ Excel was used for sample tracking, manual entry of some hydrogeologic information, and
preprocessing of analytical data. A customized macro written in Microso~ Visual Basic for Applications by
Planet One GIS Software of Portland, ME was used to compile sample tracking information with analytical data.
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