Digital topographic maps are just one example of the new geospatial information accessible to you (and your software via API's). Mark L. DeMulder reports on The National Map of the United States, a collaborative effort to deliver downloadable data and maps, products and services. The geographic information includes "orthoimagery (aerial photographs), elevation, geographic names, hydrography, boundaries, transportation, structures, and land cover." Other types of information can be superimposed to create new types of maps.
Maps are useful for a variety of reasons, not only to find a destination, but to present geological information, conduct more accurate surveys and enact better plans in the event of an environmental disaster. Mark L. DeMulder of the States Geological Survey promotes a new online mapping project, supplemented with a variety of supplemental data sets, and also discusses why renewing national maps with new technology is an important endeavor.
Mark L. DeMulder returned to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) in September, 2008, after having served for more than two years at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. In his new role at the USGS, Mr. DeMulder, a member of the Senior Executive Service, has responsibility for the National Geospatial Program of the USGS, including its topographic mapping and digital data programs. He has also been selected by the U.S. Ambassador to the Permanent Mission of the Organization of American States (OAS) to serve as President of the US National Section to the Pan American Institute of Geography and History. Mr. DeMulder holds an M.S. Degree from George Mason University in Geography. He is a graduate of the Senior Executive Fellows Program at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. In 2007, Mr. DeMulder received the Open Geospatial Consortium’s Vision Award for his work to advance the international geospatial community.
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