GIS and Photo Simulations

SRI's Envirotechnical Program has been progressively using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to visualize, query, and analyze data geographically for more than 10 years. Project locations or candidate sites are mapped in relation to a wide range of attributes, including biological resources, census tracts, demographics, known locations of threatened and endangered species, prime farmland, floodplains, geology, historic properties, land use/zoning, mineral resources, recreational resources, soil types, transportation routes, wetlands, wild and scenic rivers, and solid/hazardous waste sites. Specific resource GIS data obtained from either local resources or federal agencies provide more detailed descriptions of site areas. GIS support identification of locations where development will not be significantly constrained by environmental regulations, or the need for more in-depth analysis.

Photo simulations of proposed facilities are used to analyze the visual aesthetics and light emission effects on the surrounding environment and nearby development. Photo simulations are carefully planned from key locations to analyze the visual effect on listed historic properties and designated scenic viewpoints or viewsheds, or from areas of public concern. These simulations may depict facilities with various colors, vegetation, or lighting to mitigate a prominent visual impact on nearby properties.

Preferred site for SDL ASR-11		Photo simulation of ASR-11 at preferred site