topography generated by overlaying DRGs, DEMs, and imagery layers. Search teams were then deployed. GPS and other data was captured in the field and sent back to the incident command post. Updated maps were generated to reflect where resources were sent, how the search was progressing, and what evidence (if any) was collected and where it was found. Previous manual tracking methods using paper maps lacked any type of objective data capture and required scanning to archive the information in a digital format. Incident briefing maps were used during daily meetings. These paper maps were 24" x 36" and included data from debriefing forms as well as any significant clues from the clue log. The maps showed hazards for new searches in the field, such as cliffs and steep drainages and dense vegetation, and any updates from the previous day's operations. Numerically labeled polygons showed areas that had yet to be searched. These polygons were overlaid with data on trails, rivers, and other physical features. The incident command staff were briefed with maps that showed all areas that were actually searched the previous day and where the new search teams would operate over the next 24 hours. Field teams were provided with new IAPs and 8.5" x 11" assignment maps Esri Is Your Total Solution Provider Total solutions from Esri can provide technology you need at prices you can afford. Esri works with leading hardware vendors to provide bundled solutions that include ArcGIS® Server, ArcGIS Desktop, ArcPad®, and much more. For example, you can purchase an ArcGIS Data Appliance or a server, workstation, notebook, PDA/GPS, or Tablet PC bundled with ArcGIS software. Custom hardware-only configurations are also available to existing Esri customers. the next day. These maps included additional information such as declination, a Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) grid in the correct local datum (North American Datum of 1983), significant landmarks, hazards, and search segment boundaries. GIS helped during all phases of the Garmendia search operation, which encompassed nearly 23 square miles. It helped coordinate more than 190 ground, helicopter, and dog teams. Fortunately for this hiker, Yosemite had a helicopter available for aerial observation throughout the entire operation. After three days of search and rescue operations, a helicopter located Garmendia from the air. He was found safe and healthy, despite his arduous ordeal. GIS provided an information platform to map operations, update information, and improve decision making. GIS methods enhanced YOSAR operations through n Supplanting old paper maps and handwritten notes with digital data capture, management, analysis, and dissemination n Supplying a standard for measuring or quantifying search variables versus simply supplying map images or approximating map polygons n Helping document exactly where resources were directed and where to change actions as needed in a real-time search "GIS supplies powerful tools, but it will not direct a search," said Doherty. "It does not replace the institutional knowledge of veteran search managers and never will. It does, however, allow us to take advantage of analyses that are far more useful than simple hard-copy maps. It helps us perform a search more efficiently, with enhanced team safety, and with a greater probability of returning victims to their loved ones." Doherty is looking forward to continually expanding the use of GIS in search and rescue during his career with YOSAR and collaborating with incident management teams around the globe who are interested in utilizing GIS. In less than a year, YOSAR's geospatial platform has been used successfully in half a dozen searches. From the peak visitor season in summer to the cold and icy conditions in winter, this platform provides an informationbased method for outlining initial search strategies, helps refine the exploration as time progresses, and keeps information continuously flowing from the field to the incident command post and back again. Everyone operates using the same accurate data, which helps find the missing person as quickly as possible. In search and rescue operations, this can mean the difference between life and death. ArcUser Summer 2009 69 Copyright © 2008 Esri. All rights reserved. served. For more information on promotional offers, visit www.esri.com/hardware or call your local Esri office. Offers are updated frequently. www.esri.com