Lab 2 (GIS I)

LAB 2

By: Melissa Hackenmueller 

The main objective of this lab was to learn how to utilized data from the U.S. Census Bureau to form maps on ArcGIS. Some other objectives were to learn how to download a shape file form the U.S. Census Bureau and learn how to join features classes. One of the newest obtained skills that was used for this lab was to choose a data set of choice of use it to build a map. Finally, both maps had to be organized and managed so they would be cartographically pleasing. Things like scales, legends, and titles also had to to added. 

The skills needed for this lab were a collection of things learned from the beginning of the course. The newest skill that needed to be achieved was how to search through the Census website to find data that was useful and that was wanted. Another main skill that needed to be obtained was how to download, save, and then upload these files into ArcMap properly. The data needed to be in the right format in order for it to be transferred correctly. The skill of joining the same feature class from two different data sets was also used. This helped the data to be more accessible but needed to be done correctly. Another skill was how to use the symbology tab to to create quantitative data maps that represented the data well. One of the last and most important skills needed in this lab was the skills to make the maps cartographically pleasing. This means to make them easy to read and pleasing to the eye. A few things were done to achieve this. The page layout was switched to landscape in order to make the maps larger and easier to see and the legends had to have proper titles in order for every reader to understand them. All of these skills together made the maps a success. 

The results of my maps were very similar. The population distribution map showed where most of the population was concentrated within the state of Wisconsin. The most concentrated part of the state was the south eastern counties. There is also various populated counties scattered relatively evenly throughout the state. The second map was a map of the percentage of males in the population. This was very similar to the first map, which makes logical sense. The most interesting part of the results was to stop and try to learn why the populous areas were so populous. For example, the far northwestern county has a relatively high population. This is because it is so close to the Minnesota city of Duluth. The questions that the results of this map brought up are a good thing to think about as you observe the map below. 

Source: U.S. Census Bureau 

Data Year: 2010

LAB 1 (GIS I)

LAB 1

By: Melissa Hackenmueller 

I am an Intern for Clear Vision Eau Claire and I used spatial data from City of Eau Claire and Eau Claire County 2013. I recently prepared a basic report of all important information dealing with the Confluence Project. I used ArcMap to do this. The goal of this was to use spatial data to become familiar with GIS within public land management, administration, and land use. Then, use these skills to prepare base maps for the Confluence Project in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Hopefully, this will help Clear Vision continue the development of the Confluence Project without worry.

During this lab I have learned how to layer and stack various features.I have learned how to adjust a map to make it look most desirable, as well as, easy to read. I used the symbols tab in properties to show population per square mile. I have found have to rearrange the different data frames and how to work efficiently on six maps. I have learned the basics of what makes up a map. Maps normally need a legend, scale bar, north arrow, and title. These help readers understand the map more clearly. I have learned how to use base layers and the advantages of using them, such as, making geographic location more apparent to readers. Most importantly I have learned more tips and tricks about using ArcMap.

My results were that the various aspects of the Confluence Project line up equally. It doesn't conflict with any important boundaries. It is in voting district 31 and in a more densely populated part of the city of Eau Claire. Also, the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire has bought two lots for the Confluence Project. They are on Eau Claire Street and on Graham Avenue. Most importantly my results show that the Confluence Project is in a good location. This can be seen more clearly using the maps that I have created below.

The sources that I used to create this data are the City of Eau Claire and Eau Claire County 2013.