Geographic Information Systems
As we try to understand an increasingly complex world and plan for the inevitable growth that comes from Texoma’s strategic location between Dallas-Ft. Worth and Lake Texoma, we need tools that can help us in these efforts. One of the most powerful opportunities to make informed decisions involves the use of geographical information system (GIS) technology. By using GIS, we can quickly and rapidly understand relationships and trends that might not otherwise be obvious.
TCOG’s GIS Program understands that GIS, like any planning and implementation tool, is only as good as the data upon which the analysis is based. In an effort to ensure that the data is of the highest quality, we have entered into agreements with some of the communities within the Texoma region to develop and administer GIS applications and to assist in the creation of highly accurate base map data. This has an additional benefit to the communities we work with: it saves them up to 70% of the cost of doing it themselves.
TCOG’s GIS Program is also leading the regional effort to encourage a spirit of cooperation among all GIS professionals by hosting a GIS Users Working Group which allows GIS developers and users to compare notes, reduce duplication of efforts and receive advanced training. For more information about joining the GIS Users Working Group, contact Randy Neal at rneal@texoma.cog.tx.us or at 903-813-3556.
