Using GIS to deepen knowledge of natural landscapes and show preferred development locations.

Carl Steinitz, trained as an architect and planner, is one of the earliest pioneers in the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) for analysis and modeling. He is based at Harvard University and combines teaching and consulting with his research work.

Steinitz and his colleagues create GIS maps displaying multiple layers of information such as soils, terrain slope, species diversity, hydrology, fire hazards, political jurisdictions, proposed development, and "visual value." The maps at the right are of the Camp Pendleton region, the largest unbuilt tract of land along the Southern California coastline, and one of the most biologically diverse places in the continental United States. But since it is located in one of the most desirable regions in the country to live, the area is under tremendous development pressure.

Steinitz and fellow researchers produced these maps to examine alternative futures that attempt to maintain the area's biodiversity. GIS maps help provide such guidance for intelligent growth.

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