Case Studies

Mapping

The Edwards Aquifer Authority, a regulatory agency charged with protecting one of the United States' most important karst aquifers which underlies south-central Texas, uses GIS in their mapping, management, and analysis activities. The Authority also publishes a Web site implemented using ArcGIS Server, allowing a visitor to view a wide coverage of maps of the region. The site includes an address locater which can be used to determine whether the location is in the contributing zone, recharge zone, or artesian zone of the aquifer. Courtesy: Edwards Aquifer Authority.

Although archaeologists traditionally have viewed GIS as a tool for the investigation of large regions, its flexibility allows it to be used in detailed cave studies. Using the example of Actun Tunichil Muknal, a Terminal Classic Maya ceremonial cave in western Belize, a study was performed demonstrating the utility of GIS as a tool for data display, visualization, exploration, and generation. Basic GIS functions were used to evaluate distances of artifact clusters to morphological features of the cave. Results of these analyses provided new insights into ancient Maya ritual cave use that would have been difficult to achieve by standard methods of map preparation and examination. Map courtesy of Holley Moyes with the support of the Western Belize Regional Cave Project, Dr. Jaime Awe, Director.

The Kentucky Geological Survey utilizes GIS for analysis as well as the production of a wide variety of maps. The KGS has also implemented a geospatial clearinghouse which includes interactive map services delivered using ArcIMS as well as downloadable maps and data. Shown here is a portion of the karst groundwater map series produced by the Survey. Courtesy: Kentucky Geological Survey.

The Ratei River in Romania's Carpathian Mountains flows through one of the country's major karst areas. This karst area is where Ratei Cave is located, one of Romania's largest with a length of over 7km. ArcGIS and 3D Analyst were used in a study of the complex hydrology and geology of the area. This ArcGIS map illustrates the area and shows a simplified 3D model of the cave. Courtesy: Bucharest Speleological Club and ESRI Romania S.R.L.

Bermuda's caves are a biodiversity hotspot, containing over 60 cave-limited species including 25 which have been listed as critically endangered. Bermuda's caves are also known for their fragile formations and historical value. The Bermuda Cave and Karst Information System (BeCKIS) project utilizes GIS to map and manage cave resource information, increase public awareness of increasing negative impacts which threaten these resources, and assist in scientific investigation of Bermuda caves and cave life. Courtesy: BeCKIS Project.

Top