Students at Michigan State University collected soil data
for a near by county. They took samples of soil, coordinates of vegetation and soil samples and classified each sample. They used GIS to compile
information. They were able to create boundaries of where each soil stopped and
started, as well as list areas where certain vegetation was popular.
This image shows how they were able to put the divisions of
different areas of soil on a map and predict where they are coming from. Because
they are able to predict where the sediment is from this could help predict
floods and water runoff of the area.
This study also shows how Southwestern can apply this to Eco
Lab. Because Eco Lab is already a small area it is possible to do a similar
study out there. If students in Eco Lab
did a similar study it could lead to many more projects with the foundation of their
hard work.
Hupy, J. P., Aldrich, S. P., Schaetzl, R. J., Varnakovida, P., Arima, E. Y., Bookout, J. R., ... & McKnight, K. P. (2005). Mapping soils, vegetation, and landforms: An integrative physical geography field experience. The Professional Geographer, 57(3), 438-451.
If we did use this type of research for Eco Lab, I wonder if we would study the same things or if we would use GIS differently. It seems that this specific use of GIS could definitely benefit the studies going on at Eco Lab.
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