The Federal Geographic Data Committee launched the Geospatial Platform, located at geoplatform.gov, that helps users view federal data collections on common geographic maps.
This first iteration is a prototype that combines map-based data and Web-based tools to deliver geospatial information in a simple package.
Users can leverage the site to find federally-maintained geospatial data, services and applications and access data from government partners across state, tribal, regional and local governments.
“The Geospatial Platform will provide a user-friendly ‘one-stop shop’ for place-based data you can trust, and the tools to display that data on a map platform,” said Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Water and Science Anne Castle. “The ability to quickly visualize combinations of different types of data will allow decision makers and citizens to make timely, informed judgments on important land and resource issues. The Platform will also promote efficiency and reduce duplication of effort by providing the means to create unique maps that can be built once and reused many times. In Interior, it truly will be the ‘platform’ we build upon as we develop and share geospatial tools to enhance our specific mission — the responsible use of the nation’s land, water and coastal resources.”
The FGDC is an interagency committee composed of representatives from the Executive Office of the President, and Cabinet level and independent federal agencies including the Department of Interior, Environmental Protection Agency and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration whose mission is to promote the coordinated development, use, sharing and dissemination of geospatial data on a national basis.
“With these tools, all users have the ability to view maps from their partners and peers, to review and change those maps by adding their own information and expertise, and then re-share the results with groups of people they define. The Geospatial Platform opens the door to collaboration around maps and the government’s geospatial information in new and very exciting ways,” said EPA Chief Information Officer Malcolm Jackson.
FGDC held outreach sessions to obtain user feedback while developing the site with multiple partner agencies and external stakeholders. FGDC has also received input and advice from the National Geospatial Advisory Committee, which includes experts from the private sector, academia and all levels of government.
“We believe the Geospatial Platform will be an extremely valuable resource in both responding to, as well as sharing information on, future natural and man-made disasters. This authoritative resource of geospatial data and services will provide users with access to the information necessary to make informed decisions about critical issues,” said NOAA Chief Information Officer Joe Klimavicz.
