Database Management

We began keeping environmental records using geographic information system (GIS) technology in late 1995, and now have an easy-to-use package. Not only can data be systematically archived and quickly retrieved, the data can also be easily manipulated for technical evaluations.

The basic engine for the system is MapInfo, a GIS package developed specifically for the Windows environment. Because it is Windows compatible, MapInfo has a familiar look and feel and is easy to use for those with some Windows experience. The system uses three MapInfo applications written in-house and by third party developers. Some of the key features of the system are as follows.

• Data tables can be immediately accessed by simply selecting the well in the map window. Data might consist of well name and location, or histories of water levels and water quality.

• Plots of water levels or chemical concentrations with time can be quickly prepared using a seamless interface to Excel. Chart formatting and printing use standard Excel commands.

• Maps of concentrations or water levels can be generated using a seamless link to Surfer. The Surfer-generated map is automatically inserted into MapInfo, where it can be edited and manipulated.

• Boring logs and photos can be instantly viewed by simply clicking on the location. Other scanned information can also be accessed in this manner (e.g., drawings of appurtenant structures).

• Topographic maps can be viewed either separately or in conjunction with other maps. Design drawings can also be loaded and manipulated (e.g., excavation plans and final contours at landfills). USGS topographic sheets can be scanned and registered so that they serve as underlayments to other maps.

• Air photos can be picked from a list and viewed in a separate window, or the air photo can be used as a base beneath topography or other site features.

• Volumes between surfaces can be quickly calculated using the Vertical Mapper application.

• Best of all, the system is easy to set-up because it reads files in most of the popular formats (dBase, ASCII, Lotus, Excel and Access). Raster images and AutoCad DXF files can be directly imported.

Because of our programming capabilities, the database can be easily modified to meet your specific needs. Please call, write or e-mail us to schedule a personal demonstration of the system.