Computer Services Program
Geographic Information Systems
Staff | Databases & Web Sites | GIS | Geophysical Research
In addition to his archeogeophysical applications, Lockhart has recently implemented a next-generation, high-resolution geographic information system (GIS) with statewide environmental data coverages to support research by Survey station archeologists, our Sponsored Research Program, state and federal agencies, outside professionals, and students. The Survey's existing GIS was transformed using more robust data and updated technologies and methods. With these tools, Lockhart has begun developing statewide "site potential" models based on cultural affiliation, known site distributions, ethnographic research, and cultural landscape features, as well as physiographic and environmental data. The models are being used to frame new research questions about settlement patterns, subsistence, social organization, and other aspects of human lifeways expressed in cultural landscapes through time.
Example GIS Applications:
- Delineating areas of potential cultural contact
- Delineating natural resource availability
- Delineating archeological site catchments
- Least-Cost path modeling between sites
- Viewshed modeling
- Tree Species Potential modeling using GLO notes
- Prairie Potential modeling
- Environmental Similarity modeling
- Archeological Site Potential modeling
