What is GIS?

Geographic information systems (GIS) technology is a growing industry not only locally but also around the world. GIS is used to help solve problems in such areas as environmental protection, pollution, health care, land use, natural resources, conservation, business efficiency, education, and social inequities.

What Is GIS Day?

GIS Day™ is a worldwide grassroots event that recognizes the important role GIS plays in our daily lives. Since 1999, more than 10,000 organizations have participated in GIS Day by hosting events such as open houses, hands-on workshops, community expos, career fairs, school wide assemblies, and mapping projects that share the importance of GIS with others.

GIS Day’s success is due to the hard work and dedication of GIS users across the globe that are passionate about GIS and the remarkable contributions it is making in our world. Last year, more than 80 countries joined the celebration by declaring GIS Day in their country, state, and/or region.  With their help and enthusiasm, thousands of people were educated about this extraordinary technology.

How the Greater Toledo area is Celebrating GIS DAY

We will be celebrating GIS Day by hosting an event at One Lake Erie Center on November 14, 2012. Activities being planned included a poster competition for high school and college students, presentations from regional organizations and schools, a display of maps showcasing the current uses of GIS in our area, interactive learning experiences, food, drinks and more.