I Can See My House From Here (GIS 3015/3015L- Cartographic Skills)

Finishing up with the final module, we dove into Google Earth. In the previous weeks we created a population density map of South Florida using dots. This same information was used again, but placed into Google Earth. The objective was to export all necessary information using the KML conversion tools and then import this information into Google Earth. We also created a tour using this information.

By creating a KML file for the surface water, urban areas, and population density, it could be placed into Google Earth. The data could then be explored in a new perspective. Not only this, but all 23 counties could be selected and display information such as population. In the map provided, water bodies and wetlands are displayed along with the dot population layer. Although there are resolution issues when zooming in, it's interesting to see shapefile information placed over real world areas.

With the tour, several areas were the focus including Miami, Tampa, and St. Petersburg. The 3D Buildings layer was turned on so that when zooming into the selected area, it was like exploring the area from an areal view. Although not all areas contained photo-realistic textures, the majority did. Tampa in particular was the most detailed, considering the data had come from LiDAR, allowing for details such as trees and bridges.

I quite enjoyed this assignment. I always find it interesting when information can be exported from ArcMap and brought into other applications. Especially with Google Earth, considering that many folks have experienced the program. The accessibility of the application can allow many to explore data in a new perspective.