The Development and Implementation of a Regional GIS for Land Use Planning and Hazard Mitigation-

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CARTERET COUNTY,
NORTH CAROLINA
The Development and Implementation of a Regional
Geographic Information System (GIS) for hand Use
Planning and Hazard Mitigation. A Stud in
Carteret County, North Carolina
DCM COPY — —A ` DCM COPY
lease do not remove!!!!!
Division of Coastal Management Copy
Submitted By.
Geographic Technologies Group, Inc.
1401 N. Berkeley Blvd
Suite G
Goldsboro, North Carolina 27532
Tel: [phone]
7599215
Fax [phone]
5540 Centerview Drive
Suite 315
Raleigh, North Carolina 27606
[phone]
FAX: [phone]
[e-mail]

Table of Contents
Executive Summary
Chapter 1 — Introduction to Geographic Technologies
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)................................................................1
Global Positioning System(GPS)...........................................................................8
Chapter 2 - Keys to a Successful Regional GIS Implementation..........................................14
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Chapter 3 — GIS Needs Assessment & Capability Analysis
Introduction.............................................................................................................35
NeedsAssessment...................................................................................................44
LandUse Planning..................................................................................................80
Hazard Mitigation and Emergency Response.....................................................87
Chapter 4 — GIS Implementation Strategy.............................................................................103
Chapter 5 - Data & Databases (CD ROM).............................................................................129
Chapter6 Training Education
— and .......................................................................................144
Chapter 7 — Custom MAPOBJECTS / VISUAL BASIC Application (CDROM) ..........146
Chapter 8 — External Entities and Organizations..................................................................151
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Professional Organizations and Periodicals ...................151
GISWeb Resources..............................................................................................154
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GIS Applications...................................................................................................156
Chapter 9 — Final Study Findings & Recommendations.......................................................157
Appendices
Glossary
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Executive Summary
Carteret County has graduated from a rural, sparsely populated region to an increasingly
urbanized area with higher population densities, with a corresponding increase in property
values. The influx of people and the attendant residential and commercial development
leaves the County needing more sophisticated tools to manage its resources. The County has
witnessed tremendous growth over the last decade, and population projects indicate that
growth will continue.
Towns, cities, and counties across the United States are taking more responsibility for the
effective and efficient management of their communities_ Geographic Information
Systems (GIS) have emerged as the most effective, powerful and sophisticated means to
manage the vast amounts of geographic data. The spatial organization, manipulation, and
analysis of geographic data is extending the analytical reach of all communities. GIS
technology has exploded into the market and is now recognized as one of the fastest
growing sectors of the information technology industry. The use of geographic
information tools has received overwhehning acceptance in local, state, and federal
government.
Many local governments have embraced GIS with high expectations. However, after
absorbing the cost of building large databases, only a few organizations have made GIS
available to all staff. The vast majority of local government officials are unable to take
advantage of GIS for their daily duties. Today, new technological developments and a new
approach to GIS will allow Carteret County and its municipalities to develop a more open,
user-friendly GIS environment that allows all staff to take full advantage. A true "County-
wide" GIS is now possible
The Geographic Technologies Group, Inc. were retained by the Carteret County for The
development and Implementation of a Regional GIS for Land Use Planning, and Hazard
Mitigation, The preparation of the report was &nanced in part through a grant
provided by the North Carolina Coastal management Act of1972, as amended, which
is administered by the ORrce of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National
Oceanic andAtmosphadcAdministtation. After extensive on -site interviews and
meetings the following results were determined:
General Findings:
L Yery Little Use of GIS Software
There is very little use of GIS in Carteret County and it's municipalities. A lack of digital
data and formal training was preventing any meaningful use of GIS. It was evident that
there was no spatial analysis or manipulation, query of decision support. of
programming and customization. Few meaningful mapping products existed at the
County and each community.
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2 No GIS Management or Coordination
Interviews with the County and each community indicate that there is a groundswell of
enthusiasm for utilizing GIS technology. However there is no GIS coordination or
management within the County. No inter agency /organization discussion or plans
have been formulated. No plans exist to fully utilize digital data available from the county
and other sources. No single person is responsible for spearheading the effective use and
implementation of GIS.
.3. Strong Community Desire to Use GIS Tools.
Our meetings and interviews indicate that each Community has at least one kcE person that
would spearhead the use of GIS technoloev. The County departments are also highly
enthusiastic. This will promote the use of GIS. Cost savings and improved efficiency
should be expected early in the implementation phase.
4. Carteret County Has Accurate, Up-to-date Digital GISData
Our research indicates that Carteret Countyhas accurate, up-to-date digital
information that will improve the management and decision making duties of all
municipalities within the County. The County Tax office must play a significant role in
database development and supply. The Bormouth Tax Appraisal System is currently an
impediment to accessing all important tax appraisal information. Carteret County are
intending on replacing this system next year and are in the process of hiring a data
processing manager
5. Good Computer Resources.
A survey of all hardware and software resources throughout the County indicates that there
is a good foundation of hardware. It is anticipated that the Countyand its
municipalities will need to invest only a minimal amount in hardware for the
successful implementation of GIS.
6. Internet/Intranet underutilized
Future developments and GIS applications will utilize Internet and Intranet capabilities. It is
anticipated that all communities within Carteret County and the public will access
important digital and attribute information about the County via the World Wide
Web.
6. Training and Education
The Geographic Technologies Group, Inc. organized two training workshops as part of the
regional project. Thirty individuals were trained and certified using ESRI's Arciew GIS. The
following is a list of students that completed the ESRI certified ArcView workshop:
1 1. FfhrM Wd is - T" offs
2 Qxidnp/xrA MM - Tice Offia

3.
MicGxlAdrkrrion - Emegenry Mangement
4.
Ivm Bearky-hlarrbead Gy Po&r
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Bar am L SJymn - Emergeng Management
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Akert Taylor, Jr. - Tax Office
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Pdsdlla W. BavUge - Plm n ng
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Kahin F. hlarrball - Alanniag/In peclront
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Harry G. Smitb - Tar Offer
la
Linda CarolFuklrr-Tax Office
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Barry Blackburn - Tax Office
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Robert Chamber - BdUng In.peaor-NesPort
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Stephen Smitb - Ca*mt County Plandng -Cmtent Count'
14.
DemurThompmn - Couxdbxmn-Morbead Gy
15.
Joyce Veh*an - Inpedonr and Plmrmng - hlorrhead dty
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Rrl6mm W. Walker- Fir Chef - Emerald Irk
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CaralAngur - Emerald Ink
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Joe Gaytan - Utility Dimaor, W&S Department-hlarlxad City
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JeryLsanard - Fir Chef-Morhead City
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MityOttrmmn-T"Colk"-MarrbeadGD,
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Imes Ii Buda - Tax Collector -Atlantic Bearb
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Tnxy Talky - Phxmjrg and InpaYiant Dept -Atlantic Beacb
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Gyrtal Falgout - Prudeaftal PrnderProperw-Atlantic&ach
24.
yhlmrin—Gtyhlarnager-hlorabeadCity
R. Rand
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CralSage -Torn ofArenpad
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Dod McCabe — Pub6c Workr Diraor-Morehead City
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Sbrhly Po"11- Caterer Caumy Economic Detelopment Council -Morehead
28.
James L Lenard - Fin GW-At4m4ic Beach
29.
Ands Frazier- Grterrt County Imp pions cord Nmrning
30.
Linda Staab - P4mning - Mort ead Gty
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Introduction to Geographic Technologies
Introduction
The task of managing a communities assets and resources is becoming more complex as we
witness escalating growth. It is by no accident that the use of geographic technologies has grown
commensurately. The complexity and cost of managing the vast amounts of data which County's,
City's, and Town's require to operate, along with the reality of limited financial resources, have
greatly increased the demand for automated information systems. Based upon both tabular and
graphic data, decisions must be made quickly and efficiently on a daily basis.
The use of geographic information tools has received overwhelming acceptance by local, state, and
federal government organizations as well as the private sector. This technology is enabling
organizations to consider more effective ways of doing business. Towns, cities, and counties are
now embracing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the Global Positioning System (GPS)
as a mechanism by which to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase productivity.
The organization, manipulation, and analysis of geographic information is extending the analytical
reach of all departments of a local government. Many local governments have embraced GIS with
high expectations. However, after absorbing the cost of building large databases, only a few
' organizations have made GIS available to all staff. The vast majority of local government officials
are unable to take advantage of GIS for their daily duties. Many examples exist of the technology
being too costly, accompanied by a lack of user-friendly software. GIS has therefore been arguably
restricted to a few specialists within an organization.
Today, new technological developments and a new approach to GIS are allowing organizations to
develop a more open, user-friendly GIS environment that allows all staff to take full advantage. A
true "enterprise -wide" GIS is now possible.
Digital mapping has come of age with the union of the Global Positioning System (GPS) and
Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Creating accurate digital maps and associated databases
from real world observations has long been the dream of utility companies, planners, and anyone
who needs up-to-date mapping. GPS mapping/ inventory grade tools are offering new and
exciting ways for collecting accurate, up-to-date data. The tools for capturing field data need to be
fast, flexible, efficient, and easy to use. Fast processing times, as well as real-time processing, and
flexible data collection techniques offer cost effective solutions for creating accurate and
meaningful data. Accurate field observations are now seamlessly uploaded and used in a GIS
environment.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
History
When Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were introduced in the 1950s its early use was
limited to a small group of researchers. Botanists, meteorologists, and transportation planners
began automating the process of thematic mapping. These researchers' efforts represent the early
attempts at computerized cartography.

Today GIS is one of the fastest growing technologies. It is estimated that GIS will be a $4 billion
industry this year. GIS has emerged as a powerful and sophisticated means to manage vast
amounts of geographic data. This growth of GIS over the last thirty years can clearly be linked to
technological advancements in the computer, digitizers, and plotters, coupled with an increasing
demand by interested parties for geographic information.
The spatial organization, manipulation, and analysis of geographic data are extending the analytical
reach of organizations around the world. The use of geographic information tools has received
overwhelming acceptance. This technology is enabling organizations to consider more effective
ways of doing business.
Definition
GIS has grown out of a number of technologies including cartography, information management,
computer science, photogrammetry, and remote sensing.
Advancements made in these fields correspond to advancements in GIS. This technology,
therefore, consists of computer software and hardware designed to organize spatial data for
' analysis, assessment, and cartographic depiction. It provides a mechanism by which information
on a feature's location, spatial interaction, and geographic relationship can be assessed and viewed
in moments. It provides an opportunity to efficiently view and access geographic data to improve
' the decision -making process.
Because of the very nature of GIS, and the rapid growth of associated disciplines, many definitions
of this technology exist. The following is a useful definition because it addresses functionality as
well as components:
`An or collection of computer hardware, software, geographic data and personnel
designed to e,§iciently capture, store, update, manipulate, analyze, and display all forms of
' geographically referenced information. "ESKI
Others have attempted to use the name itself to better understand the functions and components
of GIS. GIS can be viewed in this way:
Geographic: The system is concerned with data relating to geography and geographic
' scales of measurement. This is referenced by some coordinate system to
locations on the surface of the earth.
Information: The system allows for the storage and extraction of specific and meaningful
attribute information. These data are connected to some geography, and
are organized around a model of the real world. Spatial and aspatial queries
are made possible.
System: An automated system should include an integrated set of procedures for the
input, storage, manipulation, and output of geographic information.
GIS relies on the integration of three areas of computer technology. A relational database
management system to store graphic and non -graphic data; cartographic capabilities to depict,

graph, and plot geographic information; and spatial analytical capabilities to facilitate manipulation
and spatial analysis. Three distinct areas:
1. Graphic capabilities
Z. Relational database
3. Spatial analysis
How to Conceptualize a GIS
One of the world's leading GIS software vendors organizes data in such a way that they can be
envisioned as digital layers or coverages of information. Each coverage is registered to the same
common map base; each has a distinct type of feature, points, lines, or polygons. The GIS stores
the spatial data (location information - where something exists on the earth's surface) and attribute
data (characteristics of the feature; e.g., pavement condition). A coverage represents a single
theme, such as sons (polygon), streams (line), roads (line), land -use (polygon), and wells (point).
Basic Map Concepts
Maps are simplifications of the real world and are, therefore, models of reality. Cartographers
develop maps using a set of rigid rules and guidelines. Absolute geographic locations are specified
using a coordinate system such as latitude/longitude or universal transverse Mercator (UTM)
coordinates. The most familiar location reference system is that of the latitude and longitude. This
system can be used to identify the locations of points anywhere on the earth's surface.
Latitude and longitude are angles measured from the earth's center to a point on the earth's
surface. Latitude is measured North and South, while longitude is measured East and West, and
are traditionally measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds (DMS). Latitude/longitude, however,
is a geographic reference system - not a two-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system or Planer
system. Flat maps with a Cartesian coordinate system are essential to a GIS. Therefore, since the
earth is a spheroid, a mathematical conversion is used to create a flat map. This mathematical
conversion is commonly referred to as a map projection. Each coordinate system used is based on
a particular map projection. These coordinate systems allow both the mapmaker and the map user
to specify and define position for every location on both the earth and maps of the earth.
Coordinate Systems are the x, y location in a Cartesian coordinate system.
Coordinates are used to represent locations on the earth's surface relative to other
locations.
' Projection: A mathematical model that transforms the locations of features on the
earth's surface to locations on a two dimensional surface. Some map projections
preserve the integrity of shape; others preserve accuracy of area, distance, or
direction.
Scale: This is the mathematical relationship of real earth distance to that same
distance as it is shown on a map. The relationship is stated as the ratio of two
distances. Maps are models of the real world and, therefore, the ratio of ground to
map distance is normally much less than one. Maps stored in a GIS must be similar
in scale if they are to be manipulated together. Maps with large differences in scale

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(e.g., 1:400 vs. 1:100,000) cannot be registered and overlaid without serious
distortion.
Map Features Within a GIS
The following is a list of the three features used in a vector database model•
1. Point Features A single x, y coordinate that represents a geographic feature too
small to be depicted as a line or an area.
Points
• Represented by a single coordinate, no extent or area
• Also referred to as nodes
• Attributes linked to a point ID
• Examples include: Bus Stop Locations, Bridges, Signs, Houses, Endangered Species
Locations
2. Line Featruwe. A set of ordered coordinates that represent the shape of a geographic
feature too narrow to be displayed as an area.
Lines / Arcs
• Also referred to as arcs or segments
• Linear features. Length, no area
• Attribute linked to ARC ID
• Examples include: Roads, Streams, Power Lines
3. Area Feature: An area feature is a closed figure (series of arcs comprising its boundary)
whose boundary encloses a homogenous area, such as a state or water body.
Polygons
• Also referred to as areas or complex shapes
• Features attached to polygons: Area and Perimeter
• Attributes linked to Polygon ID
• Examples include: Political boundaries, Zip Codes, Land Use
Topology
Spatial relationships between map features are represented on maps. The map user can interpret a
map and estimate distances and perceive relationships. GIS builds spatial information which
facilitates an accurate data description of the relationship of features. In some digital representation
of maps spatial relations are depicted using topology.
`Topology is the spatial relationship between connecting or adjacent cowage features; e.g., arcs,
nodes, polygons, and points For example, the topology of an arr includes its from -and -to node and
its left and right polygons Topological relationships arr built from simple elements into complex

elements: points (simplest element), arcs (sets of connecting points), and areas of polygons (sets of
connecting arcs). "ESBI
Three major topological concepts may include:
Connectivity: (arc -node topology) the topological identification of the set of arcs that connect at
each node. Connectivity within a linear network is defined by recording the from -node number
and the to -node number for each arc. Arcs that share a common node are connected.
Area De&nition: (polygon -arc topology) a list of arcs that make up each polygon.
Conakz&y.- (left right topology) the topological identification of adjacent polygons by recording
the left and right polygons of each arc.
iComponents of a GIS
There are four integrated components of a GIS: (1) data and databases, (2) hardware, (3) software
including database management systems, and (4) users.
(1) Data and databases: The data in a GIS are by definition geographic. Spatial data being
specifically location information pertaining to where objects of interest are located, their
distribution and extent, adjacency, proximity, and connectivity, verses, attribute data or
observations about features.
(2) Hardware: A fully functional GIS must contain hardware to support data input, output,
storage, retrieval, display and analysis. Hardware essentials focus on the platform and the
peripheral devices. Rapid improvements in computer technologies have allowed the advent of true
desktop GIS functionality.
(3) Software: Many GIS software packages are on the market, each offering different levels of
functionality. Turnkey systems (ready for use directly out of the box) and customized installations
are all possible. Because GIS software packages are so numerous the trend is to perform a needs
assessment or requirements analysis prior to committing to a purchase from one vendor.
(4).Users: The true GIS professional needs to be well versed in many disciplines. Map reading,
database management, spatial analysis, computer cartography, computer science, programming,
and basic geography are disciplines in which a thorough grounding is required. A balanced
education in GIS theory, and practical experience (familiarity with GIS software) are essential.
However five categories of GIS users are developing. (1) FYagsho or ystem user, a technical person
with a formal education and training in GIS who has hands-on use of GIS, (2) Desktop query &
kvwser suer, a staff person with some software training, (3) Abplkation user, a non -technical person
using custom GIS software for specific tasks, (4) End users, people who make use of the end
product, and (5) Datagatbemr / generators, people who enter or capture data for analysis in the GIS.
IFunctions of a GIS
The following is a list and graphic depiction of GIS functionality:

IManipulation
1. Coordinate Change
Coordinates are used to represent locations on the earths surface relative to other
locations. It is possible to transform or convert digital coverages between coordinate
systems. For example, it is possible to transform from digitized units to UTM meters.
2.
PM, jection
A projection is a systematic representation of a round body such as the Earth on a flat
(plane) surface. Each map projection has specific properties that make it useful for specific
purposes. Some projections preserve shape; others preserve accuracy of area, distance, or
direction. GIS has the ability to transform geographic data on the fly to conform to a
variety of projections.
3.
Edge Matching
When a number of maps need to be merged together to create one single coverage, this
properly ensures that all features that cross adjacent maps are joined. In Arc/Info, up to
500 coverages can be joined.
4.
Windoxin
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Windowing allows you to display a section within a map in larger and greater detail.
Spatial
Analysis
1.
4&ggation
Digital coverages can be aggregated by the deletion or dissolving of boundaries sharing the
same values for a specified attribute.
2.
Claarftation
Classification is the process of assigning individual observations of features into groups,
categories, or classes.
3.
Mew=xent
GIS can perform complex measurements including length, location, area, and perimeter.
4. O1W&J
The process of combining spatial information from two or more maps from the same
geographic area to derive a map consisting of new spatial boundaries and entities or
themes.
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This process will introduce a zone of specified distance around the selected feature(s).
Constant and variable width buffers can be generated for a set of features based on the
features attribute values. These buffers can be used for proximity analysis (e.g. find sewer
pipes within 100 feet of a road).
1 6. Networks
A network is a number of intersecting arcs that show possible paths from one location to
another. Network analysis involves techniques used to conduct analyses on a set of point
(nodes) and lines that are connected to each other.
7. Map Algebra
Map algebra is the process of adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing maps by
applying mathematical operations to map themes. Map- algebra utilities allow the user to
specify mathematical relationships between map layers. For example, a new map can be
generated by determining the difference in elevation between a topographic map and the
corresponding map of the water table.
8. Query
Both spatial and aspatial queries can be performed on geographic information systems.
An aspatial query might ask, "What is the population of Carteret County, NC?' This does
not involve any attributes dealing with latitude and longitude.
A spatial query might ask "How many people live within two miles of Morehead City,
NC?" or "What is the shortest route between Public Works depot and 101 Smith Street?".
Spatial queries can deal with location, condition, trends, patterns, modeling, proximity,
boundary operations, and logical operations.
GIS Software
' GIS developers have provided effective software that has made the technology accessible to local
governments throughout the world. We focus our attention to one of the world's leading GIS
venders - ESRI.
ESRI - The Worlds Leading GIS Software Company
Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) is the world's leading GIS software company.
Governments, business, utilities, and educators throughout the world rely on ESRI software to
improve operational efficiency, increase profitability, and tap the true potential of their databases.
They have a suite of products that cover all imaginable uses of GIS.
Arc/Info: Arc/Info integrates graphic or "spatial" data in the form of maps with descriptive or
atmbute information from an organization's internal databases. Arc/Info does a variety of tasks

includingbut not limited to: Data automation and integration, open data management, spatial
analysis, advance cartographic productions, open development environment/object oriented
programming, and scalability. Arc/Info is infinitely more powerful then desktop mapping with its
ability to enable organizations to distribute access across the enterprise, incorporate relational
database technologies, implement multi-user systems, perform transaction management, and use
higher -level modeling tools that help people transform data into meaningful information.
ArWiew: There are currently more then 100,000 copies of ArcView worldwide, making ArcView
the most popular desktop GIS and mapping software. ArcView helps you create, visualize,
analyze, and present information better and more clearly. It allows you to work with maps,
database tables, and business charts all in a single view. The most appealing part of ArcView is its
user-friendly capabilities. ArcView makes it simple to create relevant and impressive information
and products in a matter of minutes. ArMew moves the power of GIS to the desktop of the
average user, throughout the enterprise, and out to citizens through Intranet and Internet
applications.
MapObjects: This package contains over thirty programmable automation objects that let
application developers add dynamic mapping and GIS capabilities to applications. This package is
also an avenue to web based mapping. MapObjects can be used with many programming
environments, including Visual Basic, Delphi, Visual C++, and many others.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
History
People have always wanted to know where they are? where they have been?, and where they are
going? At first, mankind guided himself by leaving piles of rocks, or by traveling by landmarks. As
people started traveling further more sophisticated methods of navigation were required. Celestial
navigation was used for guidance, but very careful measurements had to be made, and these could
only be done on clear nights.
With the advent of technology, boats were soon able to use navigation systems besides the stars.
Radio -based coastal systems, such as LORAN and DECCA proved successful. However, these
systems are limited and only cover small areas. Also, their accuracy is liable to variations depending
on electrical interference and geographic variations.
Another navigational system is the Transit System or "Sat-Nav". This uses a satellite system like
GPS, but it is of much poorer quality, and is difficult to get a true fix on. This system is based on
Doppler so very small movements on the receiving end can cause a great deal of error.
The Department of Defense (DOD) required an accurate navigational system that covered the
entire world. The DOD invested $12 billion into research and development of the Global
Positioning System (GPS). Today we have a fully operational GPS used extensively by the military
and increasingly being used by civilians.
Definition
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GPS consists of a base station, which is in constant contact with a group of 24 satellites in orbit of
earth, and hand units tracking satellites in the field.
"Glabalposidoning �' stems are space -based triangulation systems using satellites and computers to
measure positrons anysvherr on earth. GPS was originally a defense system created by the United
States Department of Defense. The advantage o. f this system and what sets it apad from others is
its extensivegeographic coverage, 24-hour coverage, and exceptional accuracy.':
Although 12 billion dollars is a vast amount of tax money, it was money well spent because the
GPS system really works. The satellites are very high in orbit so they avoid a large amount of
interference from the earth, and the technology is accurate enough to determine a position
anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day. As GPS was originally developed as a defense system, it
was designed to be resistant to jamming and interference.
GPS allows every square inch on the earth's surface to have a unique address in latitude and
longitude. To determine a location, the hand held units are taken into the field and are positioned
besides or on top of an object of interest, such as a manhole, a water meter or a fire hydrant, etc.
This processing of coordinates yields cartographic data with a high degree of accuracy. This
method is the best available for building GIS layers. Although GPS is accurate within 100 feet in
detecting location, there is a method that even surpasses normal GPS function. This is known as
Differential GPS and it can be accurate within less than a meter.
The GPS System
*' GPS is an effective mapping tool because line of sight between the unknown and a known location
is NOT necessary. You only need line of site to the sky. When operated properly, GPS satellites
provide accurate positioning, user mobility, and rapid data capture. While satellite based
positioning has revolutionized the GIS/mapping data capture industry, it is important to note that
GPS is only a useful tool. It is not a cure all to every mapping need. The GPS has three distinct
phases:
The Space Segment
The space segment, when fully operational, consists of 24 operational satellites in six circular
orbits, 20,200 kilometers above the earth at an inclined angle of 55 degrees with a 12 hour
period. The satellites will be spaced in orbit so that at any time a minimum of 6 satellites will
be in view to users anywhere in the world. The satellites continuously broadcast position and
time data to users throughout the world.
The Control Segment
The control segment consists of a master control station in Colorado Springs, with five
monitor stations and three ground antennas located throughout the world The monitor
stations track all GPS satellites in view and collect information from the satellite broadcasts.
The monitor stations send the information they collect from each of the satellites to the master
control station, which computes extremely precise satellite orbits. The information is then
formatted into updated navigation messages for each satellite. The updated information is

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transmitted to each satellite via the ground antennas, which also transmit and receive satellite
control and monitoring signals.
The User Segment
The user segment consists of receivers, processors and antennas that allow land, sea and
airborne operators to receive the GPS broadcasts and compute their precise position velocity,
and time.
The GPS concept of operation is based upon satellite ranging Users figure their position on the
earth by measuring their distance from the group of satellites in space. The satellites act as precise
reference points. Each GPS satellite transmits an accurate position and time signal. The user's
receiver measures the time delay for the signal to reach the receiver, which is the direct measure of
the apparent range to the satellite.
User Applications
• GIS Data Capture
• Vehicle Tracking
• Marine/Vehicle Navigation
• Surveying
• Emergency Services
• Aviation
• Precise Positioning
• Agriculture
• Photogrammetry
I• Recreation (hiking, etc.)
IGPS in Five Steps
There are five main steps that need to be conceptualized to understand how a GPS works.
1. Based on trilateration
2 To tulaterate, GPS measures distance from the satellites
3. To measure distance, you need good docks and four satellites.
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4. Once you know the distance, you need to know satellites position.
5. Differential correction
Triangulation from satellites forms the base of the system. To triangulate, GPS measures distance
from the satellites. The GPS system measures distance by timing how long it takes a radio signal to
reach us from a satellite, and then calculating the distance from that time. To measure travel time,
GPS has very precise, accurate clocks. They can detect time with nanosecond timing. That's
0.000000001 of a second. Once the distance to the satellite is known, GPS determines where the
satellite is located. GPS satellites are very high above the earth and travel in a very precise orbit.
These orbits are known in advance, and some GPS receivers on the ground have this information
programmed into their computer's memory. This lets the receiver know exactly where a satellite is
at a precise moment. The Department of Defense also monitors the satellites, and in the rare ease
of a minor variation, they have the satellite relay that information back to the receivers. GPS is
subject to a number of errors that are compensated for through mathematics and modeling.
In practice, normal GPS operation can tell you where you are within a hundred feet. This figure
decreases proportionally with the good quality of a receiver. GPS working in differential mode can
pinpoint your location to within less than a meter.
Differential GPS
GPS can achieve even greater levels of accuracy using a technique known as 'differential GPS'.
GPS can achieve measurements within one meter with this technique. The secret to this ideal
accuracy is based on knowing the exact location on a ground point. When a GPS receiver is placed
over this point, it can then figure out what errors the satellite data contain. It acts as a static
reference point. Once the GPS receiver corrects the error, the receiver can transmit the correction
factor to other receivers in the some locale. This will virtually eliminate all error in the
measurements.
The Potential of GPS
Now that GPS is in place, the applications that is allows are infinite. GPS receivers have become
small and cheap enough to be owned by anyone. Today, local governments are using GPS to build
GIS databases. The following is a list of realistic potential local government uses of GPS
I

List of Local Government Uses for GPS
1. Water
Valves
Fire Hydrants
Pipes
2. Sanitary Sewer
Manholes
Lift Stations
Pipes
3. Street Lights
4. Streets
• New Roads
• Pavement
Management
• Sidewalks
• Railroad
Crossings
• Bridges
5. Regulatory Signs
6. Meters.
7. Street Signs
8. Stormwater System
• Catchbasins
• Manholes
• Culverts
• Pipes
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o. •
MOM M M ■t M AIM M M- M M M M S m M OMM

I
Seven Keys to a Successful Regional GIS Implementation
Geographic Technologies Group, Inc. has worked with many clients nationwide and has studied
successful and unsuccessful GIS implementations. Although all of the sites are unique, there are a
few precepts that if followed, can guarantee success. Invariably, successful GIS implementations, at
all levels of government, have followed these precepts. Likewise, GIS failure has a strong
correlation to the failure of incorporating these precepts into implementation. These precepts can
be summed up in what Geographic Technologies Group, Inc. calls the Sewn Keys to a Suarssfri! GIS
r
Adhering to the "Seven Keys to a Successful GIS" is critical and will make or break a
i Project.
GIS implementation has the capability of completely changing the way that local government does
business. Properly implemented, GIS will have a positive effect on how all services are delivered
and how all employees perform their jobs. The twenty-first century will see GIS and information
processing serving as the backbone for all local government activities. Implementation of a
technology of this magnitude must not be taken lightly or implemented cavalierly.
What Is a Successful Enterprise -Wide GIS?
If reports from local governments are taken at face value, it would seem that no GIS
implementation has failed. A local government that has invested in a GIS will almost always
characterize it as successful. However, when pressed to qualify or quantify the success of the
system, many can identify little benefit. Too often a GIS becomes an expensive mapping system
fi 11y implemented in only one department Although mapping is an important part of a GIS, it is
s only one capability of GIS technology.
7" A truly successful GIS implementation harnesses the analytical power of the technoloAn
organization may have a wealth of compiled data but may not have an effective way of distributing
or using it. The successful GIS breaks down barriers between departments and uses a combination
of off -the -shelf and customized GIS applications -to enable staff with varying levels of skills to use
the technology to manipulate data.
For example, the city of Wilson, North Carolina, has more than 250 layers of GIS data. Trained
personnel in each department maintain their own GIS layers. The data are available throughout all
departments in the city. Products such as ArcView from ESRI are used in conjunction with
customized applications written to perform a specific set of tasks --crime analysis in the police
department, floodway management in planning, pavement management in public works.
Thus, the defining characteristic of a successful GIS implementation is participation and use by all
i d oar+tments of the GIS technology. For instance, before a building permit can' be issued, an
inspector needs to know the location of gas, sewer, water, and electric lines; and information about
historic properties, floodways, watersheds, zoning districts, etc. A GIS can pull this information
into one easy -to -use interface for the inspector, but each department must maintain pertinent data
in the GIS. Each missing layer of information makes the GIS less effective.
1 14

GIS is a unifying technology. Implemented properly, it wi1l break down traditional barriers
between departments. Louisville, Kentucky, has a GIS that has broken down these barriers and
enables staff to perform sophisticated analysis that would be impossible without the participation
of all departments.
To surnmari e, a GIS needs to be viewed as another tool available to each employee. It should not
be hoarded by one division or department but should be fully integrated within all departments, as
word processors are.
Key Number 1 4r44b
i
Have a Well Thought Out Master Plan
Many GIS projects have failed due to a lack of planning and f res' . Many municipalities have
looked at GIS as just another computer program and have given as much thought to its
implementation as they would a new word processor. These municipalities' lack of insight has
yielded them an unfruitful GIS and has cost their taxpayers dearly.
Successful municipalities have recognized the potential of GIS and have harnessed its power by
laying out a well thought out implementation plan. Any municipalities embarking on GIS should
,k consider some of the key ingredients:
r • A Steering Committee — political strrngtb
• Top -Down Leadership — securr funding
• A GIS Champion — at the policy keel
• A Technical Committee — interdepartmental success
• GIS Users Group — open forum
• An Independent GIS Coordinator and Staff — serving all departments
• Departmental GIS —everybody mp mibk for own databases
• Technical Standards — accuracy and compatibility
• GIS Staff development — expanding staff mles
• Systems Integration —linkage and aemsabifi'ty
• Common Spatial Data — interagency cooperation
• Unified Approach — a comprrbemitx departmental understanding
We have all heard, "A faflure to plan is a plan to fail." This was never truer than with the
implementation of GIS. Many organizations have been implementing GIS with little forethought.
A typical scenario goes as follows: A department head attends a conference and sees an impressive
GIS demonstration. This department head returns home and begins to stimulate interest in a local
GIS. Funds are allocated, hardware and software are, ordered, and a GIS is bona --but without a
detailed master plan. This is a recipe for failure.
1
I15

hi Technologies Group to stud
The master plan. Carteret County contracted with the Geographic gi p y
and identify GIS needs and uses. This study will serve as a master plan to guide your GIS
implementation.
A good GIS implementation study and master plan should address:
• Staffing
• Data needs
• Data acquisition and creation options
• Training and education
• Relationships with other organizations
• Hardware and software
• Infrastructure needs
• The role of the GIS within the organization
• Costs and benefits
• A three- to five-year implementation schedule
A detailed, step-by-step process will be outlined for each of these issues. For instance, the plan for
training and education will detail which classes each person needs to attend and when, what should
be taught in-house, what training should be out -sourced, the benefit of each course, costs, and a list
of trainers available to teach the classes. This plan should and will be specific.
Keep the master plan updated. Success mature GIS implementations
Updating the place. ep P P � P
continue to be guided by a master plan. It is wise for GIS staff to conduct or contract a new GIS
study every three years to evaluate the current status of the GIS and make recommendations for
y the next three- to five-year time frame. Any GIS can be unproved.
Survey GIS users anonymously to determine staff perceptions of its usefulness. No GIS is
successful unless staff, throughout the organization, recognize the usefulness of the technology and
consider it an indispensable tool in their own arsenal.
Sharing the plan. The master plan is of limited usefulness unless it is shared with all involved
parties. Organization leaders, elected officials, and other pertinent staff should have a copy of the
master plan. It will serve as a guide for everyone using the technology and will invigorate the
project. If the staff of one department see how other departments are using the GIS, they will be
more apt to make sure that their own department is not left behind
This document should be relied on to direct the day to day implementation of the technology,
especially for the first year. However, this study should be looked upon as a living document that
can be changed to incorporate the invariable changes that occur in local government. Also, new
and emerging technology will need to be considered as the phases of implementation unfold. It is
therefore important to regularly update your master implementation plan.
A copy of the implementation plan should be given to all parties. These parties should be
consulted for input into the plan. It is a good idea to get each department to sign off on the plan,
1 16

j especially those parts that relate to their department. This wi71 serve a two -fold purpose. First, each
department will see that they are an integral part of the GIS implementation team and have a vested
interest in its success. Secondly, each department will have a good idea about the direction of the
implementation.
Key Number 2: 4eth
LJ Have an Independent GIS Coordinator in Carteret County
In the last section we looked at the importance of having a master plan for the GIS program. This
master plan should clearly define the goals of the GIS project over a three- to five-year period.
Without this type of guidance, a GIS program can become like a rudderless ship, adrift and going
nowhere. The master plan serves as the rudder of the ship. However, the ship also needs a
knowledgeable captain on board. All of the most successful GIS programs have a full-time project
,,, leader. Having this person is the most important of the seven keys to GIS success because
leadership can make or break the project.
The project leader is often referred to as the GIS manager, GIS coordinator, or GIS director.
Whatever the position is called, you must have a person with the technical savvy to run diverse
operating systems, networks, and GIS software and the people skills to coordinate, sell, champion,
teach, and referee the implementation of this revolutionizing technology. Finding such a person is
no easy task.
Do we really need a new position to runour GIS? Can't we just use our existing staff? In which
department should we put our GIS coordinator? How much should we pay? These questions are
not to be answered lightly. Organizations have spent millions of dollars on GIS just to see the
project fail because these questions were not addressed properly.
°�- GIS projects are inherently complex. Decisions have to be trade about hardware, software,
networking, data standards, data sharing, data security, database design, data maintenance, data
f
creation, priorities of data layers, training, programming, etc. Managing these tasks is the role of the
• GIS coordinator and it is a full-time job.
Where to Locate the GIS Coordinator?
:1
It seems natural to put the GIS coordinator in the County department that seems to need GIS the
-1 most. In many city governments, this is the planning department; in counties, it might be the tax
assessor's office. However, if your organization is going to have a successful enterprise -wide GIS;
the GIS coordinator should not be in a department that is a major user of the technology.
1 When the GIS coordinator is in a user department, that department invariably gets much better
treatment than other departments. The GIS coordinator is faced with a dilemma: 'Do I work on
the project that will please my boss, or do I spend my time helping other departments?" More often
s than not, the coordinator will satisfy the boss. For example, a GIS coordinator in the planning
department will develop a comfort level with planning issues and will tend to gravitate to GIS
activities that further planning goals. Other departments will soon feel isolated, grow resentful, and
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Users need information about how the technology is being used specifically in their field
Although formal GIS hardware and software training is important, it is often less than effective for
educating an organization about the usefulness of GIS. Users need information about how the
technology is being used specifically in their field. Software training focuses on software
functionality, usually in generic terms. Trainees who attend software classes can get a good
understanding of how to make the software operate but still not understand how they can apply it
to their own tasks.
There are many teaching methods, in addition to formal training, that need to be used throughout
the life of a GIS project to educate an organization about the potential uses of GIS technology.
The education process is continual. Like all other technologies in the computer age, GIS is
changing rapidly. New functionality is being released every few months. GIS technology has
moved to the desktop. A few years ago a high dollar workstation was required to run a GIS. Today
anyone with a relatively new personal computer (166 MHz Pentium or higher, preferably 32 MB
RAM) can harness the power of a GIS.
The old paradigm of training an elite few GIS gurus is giving way to the need to train a majority of
the organization. The user friendliness of GIS technology has increased dramatically. Easy -to -use,
�j point -and -click, menu -driven interfaces are being implemented on PCs throughout organizations.
Now most if not all employees must be aware of an installed GIS and what it can do. In this article,
we will take a look at the various methods of educating your organization about GIS.
GIS Steering Committee
A GIS steering committee should be formed to guide the overall use of GIS throughout the
orea� Lion. Optimally, this committee is formed before the first piece of hardware or software is
ordered. The steering committee should consist of upper management and high-level GIS staff. A
person from each major department or division within the organization should be on the
committee. This committee ensures that the GIS is being implemented throughout the
organization and that the departments in greatest need are phased in first.
This committee provides the critical high-level commitment to the investment in GIS. Each
member will gain an understanding of the technology and feel some ownership in the project.
These high-level allies will be indispensable during budgeting, and each will serve as a champion of
the technology within his or her own department. They will see the benefits of the technology and
push for its implementation. At the onset of the GIS implementation, this committee should meet
at least every two months. As the project matures, twice a year should suffice.
Formal Training
Technical training on GIS hardware and software is critical, but hardware training is becoming less
of an issue as the UNIX workstations that were the main platform of the GIS industry throughout
most of the 1990s give way to the personal computer. Hardware maintenance and upkeep is falling
to the traditional personal computer support services group, usually in the data processing
department. The GIS user will only require training on the GIS software he or she will be using.
1 - 25

L
Tier GIS. GIS software has evolved into three tiers. Tier 1 is the full hi GIS
�—flagsluP flagship
product for the GIS power user. The Tier 1 product recommended for Carteret County is
Arc/Info. One copy of Arc/Info should be purchased. This software has all of the functionality
afforded by GIS. The cost of the software is $7,000. Only expert GIS staff need access to this
software. Training at this level is usually acquired from the GIS software company, ESRI. A one -
week overview of Arc/Info will cost $1,500.
Tier 2--desktop GIS. The second tier is the desktop GIS product. This product delivers many
of the often used functions of the flagship product. The desktop GIS product recommended for
Carteret County is ArcView. This software will run on a standard personal computer (166 MHz
Pentium or higher, preferably 32 MB RANI). This level of software is robust, provides much GIS
functionality, requires at least a moderate level of computer expertise, and requires the user to make
many decisions about how to derive a product. Although this level is much easier to master than
the flagship level, it still requires training. A two-day class describing the functionality of the
software is recommended. This class should give an overview of GIS and specifics about the
software. The cost of this class is $600 per person if taken off -site or can be taught on -site for a
cost of $3,500.
Tier 3—customized GIS. The third tier of GIS has just recently arrived on the market. GIS
technology has steadily moved to a more open environment. This means that standard
programming languages, like Microsoft Visual Basic, can be used to create customized GIS
interfaces that are project specific. The third tier product recommended for Carteret County is
MapObjects from ESRI. This tier is the easiest to use. The interface is designed to perform a
specific task. Intuitive push buttons and menus are used to make the application foolproof An
hour-long training session for one of these interfaces should suffice. A good user's manual could
substitute for formal training.
A programmer has to write the customized interface for a particular task. Many products are being
developed to meet the needs of local government. Organizations have the option of hiring a
programmer to create these interfaces, purchasing off -the -shelf products, or contracting with a GIS
consulting firm to create custom interfaces. It is recommended that Carteret County purchase
MapObjects programs from a consultant and utilize the MapObjects programs already written for
Mecklenbury County.
An organization -wide GIS will require that all three tiers of GIS software be deployed, depending
on the user and purpose.
Newsletters
An invaluable tool for educating an organization about GIS is a newsletter. The newsletter should
have articles describing how the GIS is being used within the organization, how it can be used
within an organization, and how other organizations are using the technology. This will give users
ideas about how they can use the technology. Highlighting successful uses of GIS within the
organization will make non -users ask how they can benefit. Also, a newsletter gives users
recognition for their hard work and ingenuity. Others want to create a noteworthy project of their
own so that they, too, can receive some notoriety.
26

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In addition, the lead GIS person should share with staff throughout the organization pertinent
articles from magazines, trade journals, and newspapers detailing the uses of GIS technology for all
aspects of local government.
Users Group
A GIS users group should be formed within the Town of Carteret County. The group should meet
at least once a quarter. A users group is an excellent way for users to share their expertise and
experiences. All users of GIS should attend these meetings. Each meeting should address the
following topics:
• Current projects —Each
roects— Each deP artment/division should share the details of any GIS projects
that are being worked on. Maps and data should be brought to show others.
• Upcoming projects—Ipcoming projects should be discussed. Ideas on how best to
accomplish the projects should be shared.
• Industry trends --New software releases, new hardware, and networking issues should all be
�( discussed. This forum allows all users to stay abreast of the latest technology.
• New databases or changes to existing databases
• Upcoming GIS conferences and/or training
• A brief technical session —A user might conduct a brief how-to seminar on an aspect of
GIS.
• Organizational and staffing issues
• joint project initiatives
• New funding sources
• Other issues.
A users group will provide an excellent opportunity for communication among all GIS users in the
area. It is a good venue for users to share their successes and failures. Duplication of effort will be
minimized, and sharing of ideas and data will be optimized.
Also, es from the Town of Carteret County should begin attending the GIS users
zmw megtinga conducted by Mecklenburg County. The contact for those meetings is Tobin
Bradley. He can be reached at 336-5755.
National Conferences
sa National GIS conferences are an excellent venue for staff to expand their base of knowledge.
Some are conducted by major vendors, with sessions ranging from very technical to general.
Software -specific training sessions, access to technical staff, and hands-on demonstrations make
these conferences invaluable.
Others are not specific to any one software company: all software companies are invited to show
their products. GIS experiences from all over the world are shared in various presentation formats,
' 27

and technical workshoP s are usually offered. These conferences give an excellent overview of the
GIS industry as a whole. The two major yearly GIS conferences are:
t' URISA rban and Regional Information Systems Association)
Contact URISA, Dept 77-6100, Chicago, IL 60678-6100; 847-824-6300; [e-mail];
http://www.urisa.org. This year's conference is being held in Charlotte, NC, July 19-23.
GIS/LIS
Contact: ASPRS, 5410 Grosvenor Lane, Suite 210, Bethesda, MD 20814-2160; 301-493-0200. This
year's conference is being held in Fort Worth, TX, November 10-12.
One -on -One Meetings
The lead GIS staff person should meet periodically with department and division heads to discuss
current uses and potential uses of the technology. Candid evaluations of progress will serve to keep
GIS on track for each department.
Key
Number 5:
Make it Useful and Easy to Use
The first GIS programs had to have a few gurus on staff just to get off the ground and couldn't be
accessed at all by most employees. However, GIS software developers were constrained by the
hardware from making GIS applications more accessible. Until just recently personal computers
did not have the processor speed to run a robust GIS package. GIS applications could only be run
on expensive Unix -based workstations. With much more powerful and affordable hardware now
available, the user interface can be customized to meet any need. Applications can be written to
address specific tasks.
Given the current state of technology, a GIS should be deployed in three tiers throughout an
organization (see previous section). Tier 1 is the flagship GIS product (e.g., Arc/Info from ESRI)
and should be purchased for the power users in an organization. The flagship GIS product is the
most expensive, robust, and complex. The flagship product is used for data layer creation, high -
quality map production, and sophisticated analysis. It serves as the foundation for the other two
tiers of GIS deployment.
Tier 2 is desktop GIS (e.g., ArcView from ESRI) and should be deployed for those needing an off -
the -shelf GIS package with an easy -to -use interface but some flexibility of operation. Tier 2
products contain the most popular functions of the flagship product in a menu -driven interface
' instead of the flagship command line interface. Tier 2 also requires a learning commitment from
users. This tier works well for mid -level GIS users who need to be able to create their own
customized products. This tier gives a user more flexibility than a casual GIS user.wants or needs...
The third tier of GIS has just arrived on the scene. To make GIS technology more "open; GIS
companies have re -engineered their software so that it can be embedded within mainstream
programming languages, such as MicroSoft Visual Basic. ESRI has released MapObjects as its Tier
1 28

3 product. This is not an off -the -shelf GIS package like Tier 2. Instead, an application developer
uses a product like MapObjects with the programming language (in this case, Visual Basic) to write
' programs for very specific tasks. These task -specific programs can be designed so that they are
extremely user-friendly, simple to use, and tailored to the needs of the organization.
' To summarize, Tier 1 is the workhorse, the backbone of an enterprise -wide GIS. Only the most
GIS savvy people in an organization will need access to this tier. Tier 2 is for the mid -level GIS
user. It gives a GIS user flexibility and a menu -driven interface and is not overly complex. Tier 3
' enables the organization to deliver very specific, easy -to -use GIS applications to anyone with access
to a computer.
ITier 1—Flagship Menu -Driven Programming
All flagship GIS products such as Arc/Info and Intergraph come with a built-in, proprietary
programming language that allows the creation of menu -driven interfaces. These interfaces can be
used to automate repetitive tasks, present data at a public access terminal, and deploy sophisticated
applications within an organization.
For instance, if a tax office wants to update the tax map on a daily basis, staff need the full
functionality of flagship GIS but it would be very inefficient to use commands to input the
changes. To automate this task, a menu -driven program is written.
Building in these programming languages was the product developers' first attempt at making GIS
more user friendly. A flagship GIS with a menu -driven interface is robust but does not have the
sophisticated look and feel that users have grown accustomed to in commercial personal computer
programs. For each person in the organization who uses the interface, the local government must
purchase a license for the full flagship GIS package, costs $7,000. Most users will not need access
to the full functionality of these flagship GIS packages.
Tier 2—Desktop GIS
Over the past few years the use of desktop GIS has increased dramatically, facilitated by
advancements in computing power and improvements in operating systems. Desktop GIS includes
m4ny of the more popular functions of the flagship GIS products but omits some of the lesser
used functions. Desktop GIS is much less expensive than the flagship product. Desktop GIS can
' be purchased for an average price of $1,000 per license. Products such as ArcView and MapInfo
have proliferated throughout local government and have allowed a new, larger group of employees
to use the GIS. If 5 people are using the flagship package, perhaps 30 will be using the desktop
version.
Desktop GIS products have their own programming languages that allow for customization. The
' standard off -the -shelf interface can be altered to fit the needs of a user. GIS staff can set up ready -
to -use snapshots of data for the casual user. For instance, the police department in Wilson, North
Carolina, uses a GIS for viewing crime data. Custom views of the data were created by the GIS
coordinator and icons for each view were placed on the desktop of each personal computer. An
officer clicks on icons to see various views of the data: drug -related crimes, part I crimes (more
29

1
' serious offenses), -related crimes within 500 feet of a school (which incurs a stiffer sentence),
case status, etc.. Officers are able to use this particular interface with just an hour of training.
Desktop opened ened the door for use beyond the GIS coordinator's office. The time required to
learn to use desktop products is a few weeks to a month. Instead of typing in commands, the user
' implements commands through a point -and -click interface. Still, the early desktop applications
offered more functions than many users needed, and their robust functionality often caused them
to run slowly -
Tier 3—Customized/ GIS
GPI
' The majority of potential GIS users need easy -to -use, intuitive interfaces that perform well-defined
tasks. Thus, the third tier of GIS software was born: customizable/open GIS. GIS software
companies have moved GIS functionality to common, widely -used programming languages such as
C++ and Microsoft Visual Basic. The result is that application developers can create very user-
friendly interfaces that have the look and feel of other personal computer applications. Only the
GIS functionality needed for a specific program is used. Thus the overhead of non -used
' functionality is not slowing down the applications. Custom applications can be created and
distributed throughout the organization. The Tier 3 product has a price tag of $3,000 to $4,000,
which includes all.the necessary programming software and 10 deployment licenses. For each
' additional deployment, a $100 fee is paid to the software company.
Cities like North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, are deploying a GIS using all three tiers and
concentrating on custom applications. North Myrtle Beach will be deploying a "generic data
browser" that will allow citizens, elected officials, and anyone with a personal computer to access a
wealth of information.
The interface for open GIS applications is very specific. The user has very few decisions to make
and can get to data contained in the GIS quickly and efficiently. Narrow applications can be written
for each department. For instance, in North Myrtle Beach, one application is being written to allow
employees to track and query business licenses through an easy -to -use interface.
' The open programming interface opens the GIS door for any application developer in any industry.
No longer is GIS development the domain of an elite few GIS gurus. Now any programmer adept
at a standard programming language can embed GIS functionality in applications to be used by
' anyone throughout the organization.
The Internet and Intranet s
' As part of this push to open GIS, GIS software companies have developed tools that allow
organizations to put their GIS data on the Internet. Cities and counties throughout the U.S. and
' the world are deploying GIS applications on the web, giving citizens access to the investment made
in data. All local governments will, soon feel the pressure to put GIS data on the web if they have
not felt it already. The city of Greenville, North Carolina, is deploying a web interface jointly with
' Pitt County to give citizens access to a variety of data layers.
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A local government that has an intranet can deploy applications to be used by everyone on the
network. GIS staff should be using these new tools for GIS deployment and should be moving
geographic -based data to employees and citizens alike.
I£ it is not easy to usethey won't. This maxim holds true for any computer technology and
especially GIS. The GIS software being suggested for Carteret County includes: Arc/Info,
ArcView, and MapObjects applications. The software recommended for North Myrtle Beach will
facilitate three specific users: The advanced GIS expert, the desktop query and browse user, and the
non -technical, application specific users.
Arc/Info: Arc/Info integrates graphic or "spatial" data in the form of maps with descriptive or
attribute information from an organization's internal databases. Arc/Info does a variety of tasks
including but not limited to: data automation and integration, open data management, spatial
analysis, advance cartographic productions, open development environment/object oriented
programming, and scalabii ity. Arc/Info is infinitely more powerful then desktop mapping with its
ability to enable organizations to distribute access across the enterprise, incorporate relational
database technologies, implement multi-user systems, perform transaction management, and use
higher -level modeling tools that help people transform data into meaningful information.
ArcView. There are currently more then 100,000 copies of ArcView worldwide, making ArcView
the most popular desktop GIS and mapping software. ArcView helps you create, visualize, analyze,
and present information better and more clearly. It allows you to work with maps, database tables,
and business charts all in a single view. The most appealing part of ArcView is its user-friendly
capabilities. ArcView makes it simple to create relevant and impressive information and products
in a matter of minutes. ArMew moves the power of GIS to the desktop of the average user,
throughout the enterprise, and out to citizens through Intranet and Internet applications.
MapObjects: This package contains over thirty programmable automation objects that let
application developers add dynamic mapping and GIS capabilities to applications. This package is
also an avenue to web based mapping. MapObjects can be used with many programming
environments, including Visual Basic, Delphi, Visual C++, and many others.
GIS Technology will allow Carteret County to embrace three tiers of GIS, (a) Flagship
Arc/Info, (b) Desktop — query & browse ArcView, and (c) Custom applications developed
in MapObjects.
oil
Delegate - Don't Do All the Work
Thus far we have examined the necessity of creating a master plan, appointing an independent
GIS coordinator, showing results early and often, explaining the capabilities of the technology,
and making GIS useful and easy to use. All of these are important for the success of an
enterprise -wide system. Many organizations address these issues but ignore the critical issues
of staffing and work loads associated with the implementation of GIS. Too many organizations
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it
1
fl
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0
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have made the mistake of thinking that existing staff can integrate GIS into their daily routine
without the leadership of a GIS Coordinator. As we noted in Key #2 the absence of a GIS
Coordinator makes the creation of an enterprise -wide GIS a veritable impossibility. However,
the presence of a GIS Coordinator, no matter how talented, does not ensure the viability of GIS
throughout the organization. All too often the GIS Coordinator is seen as the only person that
needs to be doing GIS for the organization. This erroneous view can be brought on by the
traditional mindset of the organization or a self-imposed view established by the GIS
Coordinator. In either case, the GIS Coordinator soon finds that doing all GIS related work is a
much bigger task than one person can handle. The workload becomes overwhelming and
unmanageable. Internal and external customerssoon learn that GIS requests are being filled
slowly or not at all. Support for GIS begins to erode and/or the GIS Coordinator leaves to find a
job where the workload is not so imposing. This is the inevitable result if one person is
expected to implement, manage, and do the work for an enterprise -wide GIS. Under these
circumstances the enterprise -wide GIS will never become a reality. In order for the enterprise -
wide GIS to flourish the organization and the GIS Coordinator must realize that some GIS
responsibilities must be delegated to other staff.
You Cannot Do It Alone
One person cannot create and maintain an organizational wide GIS alone. One person may be able
to create a rudimentary GIS that functions reasonably well for one department with other
departments deriving minor benefits. However, a fully functional GIS pervades the entire
organization. Every staff person should utilize GIS data and products. Some staff will need GIS
more than others. A wise GIS coordinator will realize immediately that various levels of GIS
expertise have to be developed throughout the organization.
Many organizations have erroneously looked upon the GIS Coordinator as the sole GIS provider.
They have established and promoted the GIS Coordinator's office as where GIS takes place. This
is not surprising. Local government has traditionally been very regimented. Public Works took
care of water and sewer, Finance took care of billing, Planning took care of zoning, etc. Everyone
had their own tasks and there was very little overlap. Even Data Processing was given the specific
task of keeping the computers and computer programs running. Data Processing often became
one of the most isolated groups. GIS cannot function properly if forced to fit into this traditional
structure. GIS is a unifying technology that has at its core, cooperation by departments throughout
the organization. GIS can serve to bring down traditional barriers as departments rely on each
other for up-to-date information and the sharing of expertise.
Having an organization that relies on the GIS Coordinator for all GIS work is not always the fault
of the organization. Occasionally the problem is with a territorial GIS coordinator. Some GIS
Coordinators find it hard to loosen the reins on a GIS project. They feel slighted if GIS activity
occurs outside of their realm. Some GIS coordinators become like an overprotective parent. They
guard the GIS jealously and resist growth beyond their control. This will stifle the growth of the
project and the GIS Coordinator will be seen as non -progressive and uncooperative.
Make Sure That Each Department Has GIS Expertise
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Each department that will be utilizing GIS frequently (more than once a month) will need to train
s af. The GIS Coordinator may conduct this training in-house and/or it may be done in formal
training sessions. It is imperative that each department develops their own expertise. GIS should
be seen as another tool for existing staff to utilize to assist in their daily tasks. It should be looked
upon as an indispensable tool, like a word processor or a spreadsheet. It will be the responsibility
of the GIS Coordinator to get the proper level of GIS tools to each staff person. There are a
variety of GIS software products available that range in user sophistication from the GIS novice to
the GIS expert (see Key 4 and Key 5 for discussion on the three tiers of GIS). Appropriately
deployed, these products will allow GIS work to be conducted and GIS products to be produced
by each department. Some departments will embrace the technology immediately and train staff
accordingly. Other departments will hold out and try to push their own GIS work and needs onto
other departments and/or the GIS Coordinator. There comes a time with these resisting
departments that they must operate on their own. It may require the GIS Coordinator to draw a
line in the sand and let the offending department know that any further GIS work specific to their
department will require participation by their department for the work to be done. The coordinator
needs to make it clear that he/she has to serve all departments equally and doing all project work
for one department severely limits service to other departments.
Utilize Existing Staff
It is not reasonable to think that each department could or should hire their own GIS staff person.
erefore . is imperative to utilize existing staff to do the GIS work. The initial outcry from many
departments is that their staff is already overworked and cannot possibly do any more. There may
' or may not be any truth in this assertion. Regardless, it is important to point out that after the
initial time investment in learning the software that productivity should increase and decision
making should improve. GIS should be sold to these departments in terms of how it can save time,
fives, and money. GIS should be presented as an indispensable tool that staff must utilize to do
their job properly.
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Share Success With Users
One sure way to build momentum for and adoption of GIS is to share success with users. It is
certainly enticing for a GIS Coordinator to accept praise for the success of a GIS program and not
give credit for the hard work that has gone on behind the scenes. However, that would be a
mistake. Users will begin to resent the GIS program if their hard work goes unnoticed. Creativity
should be applauded and highlighted in meetings and the GIS newsletter (See Key #4). This is the
kind of reward that most staff seek. Recognition also serves as the catalyst for the competitive
spirit. If one department or user gets some notoriety for GIS work then it may prod others to try
to make their own GIS project noteworthy.
Be Able to Explain and Quantify Costs vs. Benefits
GIS implementation is not inexpensive. However, GIS has the capability of saving a municipal
government much time and money, as well as potentially saving lives and property. GIS will usher
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in an age where decisions are much more informed and proactive. Layer after layer of GIS data will
allow managers to plan city projects and activities much more effectively. Projects can be analyzed
' in ways that were impossible before GIS. City tasks that were taking weeks and months can be
done in a matter of minutes with GIS. Police and fire personnel will be able to more effectively
deliver their services, thus potentially saving property and lives. However, the GIS team must be
' prepared to quantify these cost and time savings and highlight examples of how the GIS is
positively impacting the lives of Carteret County citizens.
It is imperative that Carteret County incorporates all seven of these steps into GIS
implementation. Ignoring one of these steps will have an adverse impact on the GIS.
Successful GIS sites have implemented these steps whether they realize it or not.
Invariably, those GIS sites that are failures have not followed on or more of these steps.
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CARTERET COUNTY: "WHAT TYPE OF ENVIRONMENT?"
INTRODUCTION
Carteret County was established in 1722 and contains 1,049 square miles, of which 534
square miles are land. Carteret County also offers 80 miles of beaches. This community is
centrally located along North Carolina's coast. Major highways serving Carteret County
include U.S. Highway 70 and N.C. Highways 24 and 58. Transportation in Carteret County
also includes rail service, airport, and port & barge. Because of its unique east -west
orientation, you can see both the sunrise and sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. This feature
also ensures that the waves break softly on the coast.
POPULATION
Carteret County is one of the state's fastest growing counties. The North Carolina State
Data Center (NCDC) information indicates that Carteret County was the sixth fastest
growing Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) -regulated county, and the 24" fastest
growing county in the entire state. A large percentage of the growth has occurred in the
incorporated beach communities and in areas near the extraterritorial jurisdiction of existing
municipalities. This population growth has occurred due to a national trend of migration to
non -metropolitan areas, expansion of military facilities and activities, industrial development,
tourism, and the migration of retirees.
POPULA77ONPROJEC-HONSFOR CARTERETCOUNTY
1995
11996
11997
11998
11999
12000
12001
57400
158385
159370
160360
161300
162280
163210
2002
12003
12004
12005
12010
12020
64170
165110
166040
167000
170648
178091
(U.S. Census Bureau/State Data Center, Office of State Planning)
80000
75000JIL
70000
Pop 65000
60000
55000
50000
S 8 9
N N N N
Year
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POPULATIONBYMUNICIPALn YIN 1996
Atlantic Beach
I Beaufort
Ca a Carteret
I Cedar Point
Emerald Isle
2,267
4013
11179
688
2798
Indian Beach
I Morehead City
Newport
I Bove
I Peleder
I Pine Knoll Shores
177
7560
2784
465
336
1543
(1996 NCLM Directory of North Carolina Municipal Officials Buyer's Guide)
The population in Carteret County increases dramatically in the summer due to tourists and
vacationers. During summer months, coastal communities experience growth of up to
several times the normal year-round population. The peak population for the municipalities
of Atlantic Beach, Beaufort, Indian Beach, Morehead City, Pine Knolls, Newport, Cape
Carteret, Emerald Isle and Cedar Point is 105,786. This figure is based on 1995 estimates.
The normal population for these municipalities is 23,009.
Source: The figure of 105,786 was provided by the Economic Development Council.
EDUCATION
The county's public education system contains approximately 8,050 students from pre-
kindergarten through 12s grade. Carteret County schools provide both innovative and
traditional programs.
There are two high schools (9-12), three middle schools (6-8) and eight elementary schools
(pre -kindergarten — 8). In addition, there is an alternative school for students who need or
choose special programs. There is also a year round school that has been very successful.
"The mission of Carteret County Schools is to ensure that all students graduate with the
knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to reach their potential and become responsible
citizens in a changing world, this mission is accomplished through out accountable site -
based decision making, high expectations, and motivated people in a caring, community -
owned system".
Collenes. Universities and Research Facilities
Carteret County Community College (CCC)
` Duke University Marine Laboratory
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA)/National Marine
Fisheries Service, Beaufort Laboratory
•-;::;`National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) Weather Forecast Office
• ; ; N.C.'State University Seafood Laboratory
•: `.UNC-CH Institute of Marine Sciences
• 13NC"Sea Grant
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n
ENumberschools:13
n County: 508acher Ratio:16:1
EMPLOYMENTAAD INCOME
Carteret County has experienced a noticeable shift towards a non -basic (service and retail)
economy over the last twenty-five years. This increased retail trade and growth in the service
industry are the result of seasonal demand and migration of retirees.
Industry Group Workforce
3% - Agriculture: 300 workers
6% - Trans/Com/Pub Utilities: 877 workers
8% - Finance/Insurance/Real Estate: 1032 workers
11% - Construction: 1,200 workers
14% - Manufacturing:1631 workers
17% - Service: 3733 workers
19% Government — 3968 workers
22% - RetaiVWholesale Trade: 6071 workers
Source: Employment Security corwrdssiorr, excludes urinsured workers
Lartaest Emplovem
• Carteret County Board of Education (Education) —1135
employees
• Carteret General Hospital (Health Care) — 775 employees
• Atlantic Veneer Corporation (Manufacturing) — 568 employees
• County of Carteret (County Government) — 426 employees
• Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (Retail) — 331 employees
• Carteret Community College (Education) — 263 employees
• Henry's Tackle Co., Inc. (Distribution) — 258 employees
• Cross Creek Apparel (Manufacturing) - 251 employees
Source: NC Employment Security Ccrivnission
Gross Retail Sales
1990-1991 -
$461,754,600
1991-1992 -
$479,075,621
1992-1993 -
$514,776,640
=,j
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Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station
The largest employer of Carteret County residents is Naval Aviation Depot and Cherry Point
Marine Corps Air Station. 1,940 civilian employees at Cherry Point (32%) reside in Carteret
County. Out of a total payroll of $265,332,500 for the quad -county region of Carteret,
Craven, Jones, and Pamlico Counties, Carteret County employees earn approximately
$84,108,668. 621 active military employees reside in Carteret County. This accounts for
7.5% of the total active military population on base. 2,555 retired military people reside in
Carteret County.
Per Capita Income
1994-16,392
1995 - 17,924
2005* - 29,000
*Projection
Source: Office of State Planning
Unemployment Rate
Median Family Income
1"0 - 30,241
1994 - 34,900
1995 - 37,200
Source: Office of State Planning .
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
Jan
10.8
8.9
8.6
7.9
7.9
Feb
10.0
10.3
9.1
7.9
6.2
Mar
9.6
7.6
6.5
6.0
4.6
Apr
7.4
4.8 15.9
3.8
3.2
May
6.1
3.8
4.3
2.9
2.9
June
6.3
3.3
3.7
11
3.2
July
4.9
3.7
3.3
3.3
2.6
Aug4.0
4.6
4.1
3.3
3.5
Set
3.8
4.4
14.3
3.8
3.3
Oct
4.8
4.7
4.0
4.0
3.9
Nov
5.7
5.2
5.4
6.0
5.2
Dec
6.3
5.4
7.4
4.9
Avg.
6.4
5.5
5.5
4.7
Source: NC Employment Security Commission
MUNVICIPAL=S
Atlantic Beach - Population 2267
Atlantic Beach, chartered in 1937, is located at the east end of Bogue Banks and bordered by
the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Sound. Atlantic Beach was named for Atlantic Beach
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Incorporated, a business that charged admission to the beach through a toll bridge and
rented swimsuits to guests.
Atlantic Beach began as a resort town in the 1920's and has continued this tradition to this
day. It has many amusement parks and beach clubs mingling with hotels and
condominiums. Thousands of sunbathers come to this beach each season. Atlantic beach
has become North Carolina's most populous seaside resort. This popularity has caused an
explosion of development.
This town hosts many fishing tournaments and is the site of Fort Macon State Park, which
features a restored Civil War fort and miles of public shoreline. It is a favorite spot for many
who visit the Crystal Coast. Atlantic Beach has shopping, fishing, boating, and water
activities.
Atlantic Beach's government follows a council/manager style.
Beaufort — Population 4013
Beaufort (pronounced Bo-furt by natives), the county seat of Carteret, was founded in 1709
and surveyed in 1713, making it the third oldest town in North Carolina. It was established
as a seaport with the right to collect customs in 1722. Beaufort was originally a fishing
village and port of safety dating from the 1600's. It has a unique history involving patriots,
privateers and pirates. Beaufort today is a friendly, unspoiled historic part of North
Carolina. It is a vital little town that first prospered as a supplier to the whaling trade.
Early trade in Beaufort also centered on lumber products. These were shipped from the rich
Newport River area plantations to the West Indies in exchange for glassware, cloth,
furniture, coffee, and rum. Beaufort continued to prosper into the nineteenth century as a
port and agricultural, commercial, and government center.
Beaufort was relatively unhurt during the Civil- War, due to early occupation by Union
Forces. Trade was strong afterwards. Lumber, barrel staves, rum, and molasses were some
of Beaufort's exports. However, soon the port declined as a trade center while commercial
fishing increased. Beaufort served as a homeport for a large fishing fleet and as a site for
processing plants for the menhaden trade. In the 1970's, Beaufort became a summer resort
town as the historic infrastructure and waterfront were restored. There are many historic
structures located in this municipality.
With its protected banks along the Intracoastal Waterway and proximity to the ocean,
Beaufort is a popular yachting and boating center. It is also a popular pastime in Beaufort to
stroll along the boardwalk by the docks. Across the water from the boardwalk is the Rachel
Carson National Estuarine Sanctuary, a series of low islands which are home to a herd of
wild ponies. Beaufort is the site of many historic homes and has a 21 block historic district
divided by a traditional boardwalk with boats on one side and unique shops and restaurants
on the other. The North Carolina Maritime Museum and Watercraft Center is located here.
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Beaufort was recently highlighted in national and international press as the wreckage of the
pirate Blackbeard's flagship was found in 20 feet of water about two miles from the Beaufort
inlet.
Government consists of a Mayor and a Board of Commissioners. The mayor is elected
every two years and commissioners are elected for staggered four-year terms.
Cape Carteret — Population 1179
Cape Carteret is a quiet residential resort community chartered in 1957. This town was
named after Sir John Carteret, who became Earl Granville, one of the eight Lord
Proprietors. It is adjacent to the Intracoastal Waterway. Many championship golf courses
with public access are located here. This town is a popular residence for retirees and has
emerged as a commercial center for western Carteret County.
Government is composed of a Mayor and a Board of Commissioners. Municipal elections
are held every two years on odd numbered years.
Cedar Point — Population 688
Cedar Point was chartered in 1988 and is named for the cedar trees that line HWY 24.
Cedar Point is bounded on the south by Bogue Sound and on the east by HWY 58. Cedar
Point is a small residential community. Several large waterfront subdivisions have recently
been developed in the town.
Government is composed of a Mayor and a Board of Commissioners. The mayor is elected
every two years while commissioners are elected every four years.
Emerald Isle — Population 2798
Emerald Isle is a well-known, quiet resort town with family oriented beaches. It was
chartered in 1957. It is named for large areas of maritime forest. Emerald Isle is located at
the west end of Bogue Banks and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Sound.
The original occupants of Emerald Isle were Indians and whalers. Eventually, a man from
Philadelphia by the name of Henry Fort bought most of this land. He planned to create a
large resort by linking this land to Cape Carteret with a bridge. He was unable to find
enough money to complete this project. However, years later, a ferry was created and then a
high rise bridge was built.
Emerald Isle contains beautiful homes and condominiums as well as a growing commercial
1 district. Emerald Isle is ranked among the top ten small towns in North Carolina. Emerald
Isle hosts two very popular festivals throughout the year. St. Patricks Day and the Beach
Music Festival.
The government is composed of a mayor and Board of Commissioners. Municipal elections
are held in odd -numbered years.
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Indian Beach — Population 177
Indian Beach was incorporated in 1973 and named for the Indian burial mounds found in
the area. The amount of land area is 1.314 square kilometers and the water surface comes to
3.97 square kilometers. It is located on Rogue Banks and surrounds the fishing village of
Salter Path. Indian Beach offers tourists and fishermen seasonal vehicle access to the beach.
Its government is composed of a mayor and a Board of Commissioners. Municipal elections
are held in odd numbered years.
Morehead City — Population 7560
Morehead City is the most populated municipality in Carteret County and is well known for
it's famous waterfront restaurants. Morehead City has a land area of 6.808 kilometers and
surface water of 1.048 kilometers. Morehead City is home to the NCDO'rs ferry division.
Morehead City was incorporated in 1861, largely through the efforts of John Motley
Morehead who wanted to establish a deep -water port and railway on the parcel of land that
was, at that time, called Shepard's Point. He purchased the land from the Arendell Family in
1853, and began selling lots in 1857. The area was well planned and carefully laid out,
consisting of sixteen -lot blocks with alleys. The city has expanded west over the years,
stretching beyond the narrow confines of the peninsula.
Many factors have contributed to Morehead City's growth. The first factor involved a series
k of storms in the late 1800's that forced the inhabitants of Shaddeford Banks to relocate their
homes to the mainland. Another factor involved the development of nearby military bases.
During World War II, the U.S. government sponsored the construction of houses to provide
housing for the influx of military personnel.
Morehead City features a renovated waterfront lined with specialty shops and restaurants.
Many of the area's headboats and charter boats dock here. Morehead City is the county's
commercial and industrial center and is home to one of North Carolina's two deep -water
ports and several large manufacturing firms.
Government is composed of a council-manager system. The town council consists of a
mayor and five council members. The mayor is elected every two years and council
members are elected for staggered four-year terms.
Newport — Population 2784
Newport is surrounded by the Croatian National Forest. Newport is known as "the town
with old-fashioned courtesy". It is a residential community adjacent to U.S. Highway 70.
Newport was also recently ranked among the top ten small towns in North Carolina.
Government consists of a Mayor and a Board of Commissioners. The mayor is elected
every four years and commissioners are elected for staggered four-year terms.
IPine Knoll Shores — Population 1543
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Pine Knoll Shores is located in the center of Bogue Banks and is surrounded by the Atlantic
Ocean and Bogue Sound. Pine Knoll Shores was chartered in 1973 and is named for the
Theodore Roosevelt family's Pine Knoll Shores subdivision. This town is home to the
North Carolina Aquarium. The heirs of Theodore Roosevelt developed this planned
' community. This community is popular among retirees and second -home owners.
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The government is composed of a Mayor and a Board of Commissioners elected every two
years.
Bogue - Population 465
Peletier - Population 336
GOVERXALU T
Carteret County has a commissioner/manager form of government. Carteret County's
seven commissioners are nominated by district and voted on countywide. Carteret County
has eleven municipalities, each of which has its own town council The type of government
structure varies from town to town. As of December 31, 1997, the political registration for
Carteret County included 16,077 Democrats, 13,499 Republicans, 5135 Unaffiliated, and 17
Libertarians.
This area is a paradise for both residents and vacationers with mild winters and breezy
summers. The daytime temperatures range from the low 50's in the winter months to the
high 80's in summer.
Carteret County beaches face south rather than east from the southern point of Core Banks
at Cape Lookout to the west end of Bogue Banks. Therefore, the sun rises and sets on the
ocean, and the north wind calms the sea close to the beaches.
Climate (Average Annual. Air
and Water "
Temperatures in Degrees Fahrenheit):
Low High
Low
Jan
32
53
50
Feb
48
75
59
Jul
89
88
78
Oct
52
75
70
Average Rainfall in inches -- 46.45'
Annual Average Temperature — 64
degrees
Number of Freeze Free Days - 332
:Direction of Prevailing Winds -.SW:
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IHurricanes
North Carolina ranks third in the United States in terms of hurricane frequency. Florida and
Texas are the only states with more. There have been 25 hurricanes in or near the North
Carolina since 1940. In recent memory, the strike of Hurricane Bertha and Hurricane Fran
(CAT 3) made a hard season of 1996.
Hurricane Fran was the most destructive storm in North Carolina history, leaving a trail of
destruction behind it totaling 4 billion dollars. Hurricane Hugo (CAT 3) struck through
South Carolina and then western North Carolina in September 1989. This caused 1 billion
dollars of damage in North Carolina and 7 billions dollars of damage overall. In North
Carolina, over 68,000 acres of forest were completely destroyed and 2.7 million acres of
forest were damaged. Hurricane Hazel (CAT 4) in 1954 did not match the dollar damage of
Fran and Hugo, but it was a more powerful storm. It had winds up to 150 mph and a 17-
foot storm surge. 19 people were killed and over 200 were injured. 15,000 homes and
structures were completely destroyed and 39,000 were damaged. An unnamed
hurricane in 1883 killed 53 people, more then any other hurricane in North Carolina. So far,
no category 5 hurricane has been known to make landfall on the North Carolina Coast.
Some other hurricanes of interest include the following.
1985 Hurricane Gloria (CAT 3) - $8,000,000 of damage on the Outer Banks. Severe
erosion/flooding and one death.
• 1984 Hurricane Diana (CAT 2) - $80,000,000 of damage, one-third being agricultural, in
Southeast North Carolina. Widespread tree and power line damage. 3 deaths.
• 1971 Hurricane Ginger (CAT 1) - This hurricane is noted for its longevity. The storm
was tracked for 31 days, 20 of which it was at hurricane strength. $10,000,000 of damage
to agriculture.
• 1960 Hurricane Donna (CAT 3) - 8 people died and over 100 had injuries. Millions of
dollars of damage. Two tornadoes were observed in connection to this hurricane.
• 1955 - Hurricane Ione (CAT 3) - This hurricane occurred after two earlier hurricanes
that season, Connie (CAT 3) and Diane (CAT 2). Ione caused 7 deaths and $88,000,000
of damage. The rainfall was without precedent in North Carolina. This caused massive
flooding, and inundation of the greatest area of eastern North Carolina ever recorded.
At New Bern, the depth of water was 10.5 feet over mean low water, with 40 city blocks
flooded. Thousands of acres of farmland were flooded and thousands of homes were
invaded by water up to 4 feet. Several hundred homes washed away.
Carteret County has graduated from a rural, sparsely populated region to an increasingly
' urbanized region of higher population densities, with a corresponding increase in coastal
property values.. The influx of gMple and the attendant residential and commercial
develo men often in locations with a higher risk of severe storm impact, leaves
Carteret county and its munici, palities i71 krrepared for the level of risk it now faces
from repetitive weather related natural hazards
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GIS NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND
CAPABILITY ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTIONAND PURPOSE
Carteret County has a unique opportunity to develop and implement a regional GIS. The
impetus of this study is to develop implementation strategies for the successful utilization of
GIS for land use planning and hazard mitigation.
This report is a compilation of the information gathered from an on -site assessment
performed by GTG in February of 1998. The needs of each organization have been
identified and prioritized. Each organization has been listed alphabetically.
DATA SHARING
The success of a regional GIS will be determined by how effectively all government agencies
share data and coWerate. It has been proven that the most successful GIS implementations
are those that have a policy of data sharing between agencies. In Carteret County, agencies
have indicated a willingness and a commitment to an open flow of geographic information.
It is critical that all entities strive to maintain a good working relationship.
GIS Success and Organization Participation
.L<" S4
t+�t(yeYf(��1;„A 34E� rlax i„a x ^r2.
s r:
3 F � �tf X �r,i1.. ✓J?' }, � r,7 x1��?1:4. tfi9rT, f,'1�'.. *' � f :F,.. N �-->,2 'i .4 "TTI�t jS'�7 � Iy, 15 .; �t r�; 1 ,�
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� i �,� �.� J Si $� ' a5� Ydr t; � .v�" . di`o yd� �aa,'���..�r•.�+;�,�..
��` ,� �rF rjj. �u?' .' y _ 4; a � e'� 'WSJ' .' *�.�•�
Pee rcentofOrganizational Oardclpadon
DATA STANDARDSAND TRANSFER
Forging partnerships and deciding to share data across agencies and other organizations is
the first step. The next step can derail even the best data sharing plans. Often willingness to
share data is present but incompatibilities in hardware and software make data sharing
virtually impossible. This is currently the case in Carteret County. 'There is an incompatible
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mixture of commuter hardware, computer software, and data storage devices throughout the
different government agencies and departments.
• Software Standards
Transferring between GIS software products can be time consuming, cumbersome, and
expensive. Often this painful process leads organizations to abandon data sharing efforts.
The most prudent way to overcome this obstacle is to utilize the same GIS software. There
are two GIS software companies providing software to Carteret County: MapInfo
Corporation and Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI). Both companies
provide good GIS software solutions. MapInfo provides software called MapInfo and ESRI
provides a family of software products, most notably, Arc/Info, ArcView, and MapObjects.
It is highly recommended that all entities in Carteret County adopt the ESRI GIS software.
This is recommended because Carteret County Tag Department has adopted Arc/Info and
ArcView as their GIS software platform. Carteret County Tag Department is one of the
most critical organizations in this regional GIS effort as they have a need to collect and
maintain many GIS data layers. These data layers will serve as the base for all GIS activities
throughout the county. The cadastral (tag garcel/proper ) layer is the most critical digital
Ja r. Therefore, Carteret County Tag Department will be the de -facto data clearinghouse.
Figure 1- Carteret County Tax Department as Clearinghouse
Compatibility with Carteret County makes GIS affordable and much more accessible. Also,
the ESRI products have emerged as the standard in North Carolina. Almost all state,
federal, and local government agencies in North Carolina are utilizing ESRI products.
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Going to ESRI products makes data sharing with these agencies much easier and
inexpensive. Of the 62 counties that responded to a survey by the Land Records
Management Division of North Carolina, most were utilizing ESRI products. ESRI
products offer the most robust and full -featured GIS products worldwide.
GTG, INC has negotiated with ESRI on behalf of Carteret County. They have stated that
they are willing to =lace, free of charge, any exisf= non-ESRI GIS products with a
new copy of ArcView GTG, INC will provide ArcView training for all interested parties
in Carteret County as part of this effort. It is recommended that all users of non-ESRI
software acquire ArcView immediately and begin using it. GTG_ INC will facilitate the
procurement and installation of replacement copies of ArcView.
Figure 2 -
North Carolina County GIS Software Use by Software
Type
® ESRI
■ Mapinfo
• Mapinfo and ESRI
• Strings
■ Outer
Organizations that do not have any GIS capabilities should purchase a copy of ArcView for
approximately $1200. Arc/Info is more complicated software that is used for detailed
analysis and data entry needs. This would only be necessary for Carteret County
departments. Carteret County departments currently have five copies of Arc/Info.
• Data Format Standards
GIS data has numerous formats. Data format depends on how information is created and
how it is stored. The combination of software, Arc/Info and ArcView, being recommended
for this project gives users a great deal of flexibility for data formats. There are few data
formats that this software cannot read. However, there are formats that are much easier to
use than others. The following is a list of common data formats, their derivation, their ease
of use, and whether they can contain tabular (attribute) data as well as geographic data.
1 46

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Tahle 1 _ Data Formats
Data Format: -
Derivatron _ . `
Ease of Use " .: `
Tabular
Notes
Arc/Info Coverage
Arc/Info
High
Yes
Native Arc/Info file
format. Is comprised
v
of many files tabular
r
f�
and geographic. All
a
files must be copied if
this type of file format
is to be used.
AreJlnfo Export Y "
Arc/Info
High
Yes
Contains all of the
e04 4� y RYxr��r,
r,y
data in an Arc/Info
as eY'
f r
coverage in one ffic.
This file format has to
be imported but
makes transport of
data very efficient.
View Sbape}
ArcView
High
Yes
Format of choice.
Native ArcView file
format. Easily
converted to an
Arc/Info CovcraRe
r s
CAD Products
Medium
Yes
Hard to Transfer
3`
Tabular Data Usually
{ F
Gotten From
Engineering Firms
and Surveyors
Intergraph
Low
Yes
Can be viewed in
ArcView but is
1 r �
difficult to convert.
USGS
Medium
Yes
Digital Line Graph
�z
Data Used by the
USGS. Often DLG
t r'
files have been
converted already into
a more usable format.
Census Bureau
Low
Yes
Contains valuable
a=w r-
demographic data.
3`n� " " .
Should be acquired
But the native tiger file
format is cumbersome
and difficult to
translate. Try to find a
y
state agency that has
done the conversion
already.
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DEM 'Digital ;:
Various Sources
Low
Very Little
Used for the
Elevation ModeC.,'f
generation of elevation
contours.
Cumbersome to use
but often necess
TIFF,'SunRaste4 s
Various Sources
Low
No
Vaious image formats
IF, BMP, gII,
that can be displayed
t x
directly in Arc/Info.
Useful for display
d
aerial imagery and
_lphotographs.
,It is recommended that the ArcView shave file format be adopted as the data format
standar . This will be the easiest to transfer and use. A shape file can be large and will
require data transfer by tape, compact disk, or the Internet. Surveyors and engineers usually
use a computer aided drafting (CAD) product. The best way to transfer this type of data is
to utilize the Digital Exchange Format or DXF. Usually DXF files can be transferred by
diskette. ArcView has a CAD reader that can interpret DXF files and AutoCad DWG files.
I• Transfer Media Standards
One of the most significant stumbling blocks in data sharing is the way data is exported
from one computer and imported into another. One computer may have data that is in the
appropriate format and coordinate system but there is no common way to transfer the data.
There are many ways to bridge the gap between computers. However, very few transfer
media standards exist. The floppy disk has always been the traditional method of data
transfer for years. However, the sheer size of data has outstripped the usefulness of
diskettes. For instance, an average size GIS file can easily fill up thirty diskettes. Therefore,
other alternatives are a must.
A tape drive has allows for the transfer of much larger data sets. Unfortunately there are
hundreds of different types of tape drives. There are a few tape drives that surfaced as
pseudo -standards for UNIX and VAX/VMS based GIS. These tape drives are the 8mm
and the 4mm (a.k.a. DAT Tape). Almost all serious GIS installations had access to one or
both of these drives. To complicate matters GIS has recently moved to the desktop PC.
Standards here are non-existent Now the trouble is not only how to move from Unix/VMS
to Unix/VMS but how to move between Unix/VMS and a PC or from PC to PC. The
following table has information on various tape drives and their characteristics.
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Table 2 - Storage Devices
Tape.3�rm�e
Platform
�Sto.*v Capacity :
Notes
8mm
Unix/VMS and
2GB - 20GB
Is used extensively on
PC
Unix computers.
Stores much data.
Also, used on PCs but
backup methods vary
by drive. Backup
speeds are fast.
4mm
Unix/VMS and
2GB - 20GB
Same as the 8mm.
PC
Only difference is
cartridge is physically
smaller.
1/4" Cartridge
Unix/VMS and
100MB - 2GB
This option is slow.
PC
No standards exist in
the Unix/VMS and
PC environment.
Diskette
Unix/VMS and
1.4 MB
Excellent for small
PC
files. Standard drives
allow for data sharing
between all types of
computers. Not good
for big files.
Ditto or Jaz
PC
100 MB - 2 GB
Good for PCs but no
standards exist. Data
sharing between
machines is difficult
ZIP Drives
PC
100 MB
As standard as comes
with a PC. Good for
data transfer with
other PCs
Compact Disk
Unix/VMS and
1 GB -10 GB
Excellent media for
PC
transferring large files.
Standards are
emerging -
It is recommended that Carteret County utilize two tvnes of storage devices as a
sUmdm& ZIP drives and compact disks. ZIP drives will be used for PC to PC data
sharing. Each organization that will be utilizing GIS should purchase a ZIP drive. ZIP
drives can be purchased at most retail stores and mail order. PC Connection is a reliable
mail order company that sells the new ZipPlus drives for $199.95. They can be reached at 1-
800-800-5555. Carteret County should purchase a writeable compact disk drive for data
sharing and publishing. This drive should be attached to the Windows NT workstation
currently in use by GIS staff. A large amount of data could be quickly written to the drive
and shared with any PC that has a CD-ROM drive. The writeable CD can be used for data
sharing between all types of computers. The cost of this drive is $550 and can be purchased
Ifrom PC Connection via mail order.
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Bottom Sediment
Unknown
APES Study
Albemarle -Pamlico Estuarine
Sampling Sites
Stud
County Boundaries
1:100,000
USGS
Carteret County has a more
accurate layers
Municipal Boundaries
1:100,000
USGS
Carteret County has a more
accurate layers
Municipal Boundaries
Various
Powell Bill
Derived from submissions
from various agencies
Census
1:126,720
Bureau of Census
Good for Demographics
Boundaries/Population
1970
Census
1:126,720
Bureau of Census
Good for Demographics
Boundaries/Population
1980
Citizen Water Quality
1:100,000
Various
Taken Weekly by Citizens
Monitoring Sites
Closed Shellfish
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Conditions from 1994 to
Harvesting'Areas
Present
Coastal Area
1:100,000
NCDEHNR
Location of all permits in
Management Act Major
LAMA areas
Development Permits
Coastal Marinas
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Secure moorings for
sailboats, motorboats, and
yachts
Coastal Reserves
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Protected areas for stud
Digital Orthophoto
1 meter ground
USGS
Digital Image of Aerial
Quarter Quadrangles
resolution
Photograph
Digital Raster Graphics
1:24,000
USGS
Not available for Carteret
County
Federal Land
1:250,000
USGS
Federal land in NC
Ownership
Fisheries Nursery Area
1:24,000
NC Division of
Primary, secondary, and
Marine Fisheries
special secondary areas
Geodetic Control
First or Second
NC Geodetic Survey
- Horizontal and vertical
Points
Order Positional
control points
Accuracy
Geology
1:250,000
NC Geological
Geologic formations, dikes,
Survey
and faults
Groundwater
1:100,000
NCDEHNR
Areas where groundwater
Recharge/Discharge
continually feeds into streams
during periods
Hazardous Substance
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Locations of uncontrolled
Disposal Sites
and unregulated hazardous
waste sites
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Hazardous Waste
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Locations of treatment,
Facilities
storage, and disposal facilities
Heavy Metals and
Loran Accuracy
East Carolina
Pamlico River, Neuse River,
Organic -Rich Mud
+/- 50 feet
University
and the Albemarle Sound
Pollutant Sample Sites
High Quality and
1:100,000
NCDEHNR
Waters identified as having
Outstanding Resource
excellent water quality
Water Management
Zones
Historic Sites and
1:24,000
NC Dept. of
Historic sites and districts
Districts - National
Cultural Resources
Re ' ter Sites
Historic Sites and
1:24,000
NC Dept. of
Determined eligible status
Districts - Study List
Cultural Resources
Hurricane Storm Surge
1:100,000
Division of
Based on the Eastern North
Inundation Areas -1987
Emergency
Carolina Hurricane
Management
Evacuation Study, 1987
Hurricane Storm Surge
1:24,000
US Army Corps of
Based on Slosh Models
Inundation Areas -1993
Engineers
Available for Pender,
Onslow, New Hanover, and
Brunswick Counties
Hydrogeology - NC
1:500,000
NCDEHNR
Western Part of the State
Piedmont and Blue
Ridge
H dro h
1:24,000
USGS
All surface waters
H dro h - Major
1:100,000
USGS
Not as Detailed as 1:24,000
Hydrologic Units - NC
1:24,000
USGS
Hydrologic Units
Hydrologic Units - NC
1:24,000
Various
Riverbasins
Riverbasms
Jurisdictional
1:24,000
USGS
Various political boundaries
Boundaries
Land Use / Land Cover
1:100,000
APES Study
Available for Eastern NC
-Military Air Space
1:250,000
NCDEHNR
Special Use Air Space
National Pollutant
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Surface water discharge
Discharge Elimination
locations as recorded on
System Sites
permits for NPDES sites
National Wetlands
1:24,000
US Fish and Wildlife
Not Complete
Inventory
Service
Natural Areas
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Ecologically significant
communities of rare species
Natural Heritage
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Endangered species and
Element Occurrence
occurrences of exemplary or
Sites
uni ue natural ecos terns
Peat Deposits of the
1:24,000
Various
Thickness of peat deposits
Pamlimarle Peninsula
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Potential Wetland
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Not yet available
Restorations Sites
Proposed Critical
1:100,000
NC Wildlife
Extent of endangered or
Habitat Areas
Resources
threatened aquatic species
Commission
Recreation Projects -
Distance Bearing
Various
Boundaries of Recreation
Land and Water
Collection
Projects
Conservation Fund
Shellfish Strata
1:12,000
NC Division of
Areas depicting presence of
Marine Fisheries
underwater habitat of
different species
Shoreline
1:24,000
USGS
1948-1990 Sources
Soils - Detailed
1:24,000
USDA
Various attributes
Solid Waste Facilities
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Active municipal solid waste
landfills
Spiny Mussels
1:100,000
NCDEHNR
Known locations of
freshwater spiny mussels
State-owned
Various
State Property Office
Boundaries of state-owned
Complexes
complexes
State Parks
1:100,000
NCDEHNR
Boundaries
Stream Gaging Stations
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Point Layer
Submersed Rooted
Various
Various
Vascular Plants
Vasculars
Surface Water Intakes
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Locations where
communities draw raw water
Tiger/Line Census
1:100,000
Bureau of Census
Demographic Data
Files,1990
Topography - Contours
1:24,000
USGS
Only small part of the state
covered
Topography - DEM
1:24,000
USGS
70% of NC Covered
Transportation - Pipe
1:242000
USGS
From Topo Quads
and Transmission
Transportation - Pipe
1:100,000
USGS
From Topo Quads
and Transmission
Transportation -
1:126,720
NCDOT
County Road Maps
Primary Roads
Transportation -
1:24,000
USGS
From Topo Quads
Railroad Grade
Crossings
Transportation -
1:24,000 and
USGS
From Topo Quads
Railroads
1:100,000
Transportation - Roads
1-24,000 and
USGS
From Topo Quads
and Trails
1:100,000
Water Supply
1:24,000
Various
DEM Classification Schedule
Watersheds
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Wildlife Resource
Various
Wildlife Commission
Publicly Owned Game Lands
Commission Game
Lands
The ultimate success of GIS throughout Carteret County is in the hands of the county
government. They are the providers of many services for the entire county. Municipalities
rely on the county for information. Carteret County has already started to compile a wealth
of high quality digital GIS data. The next phase for the county is to empower the
municipalities and citizens by sharing. data. There are a variety of ways to facilitate data
sharing. Many of these are inexpensive.
Carteret County's Tax Department is comprised of twenty-three full-time employees and
four part time employees (Figure 3).
Figure 3 -
carterit county TaX
Administration
ar.ax
Aaerwa.w.
AtNWM
M+rP�O Foes T1urLWbp
QIS Tiro tuff.' I �I�_ I
These people are responsible for tax collections, appraisals, listings, mapping, and GIS. Mi
department is and will be the lead for GIS throughout the count. The most important GIS
layer in any local GIS iuMlementation is the tax p ra cel layer. Many other GIS layers rely on
an accurate tax parcel layer to serve as a base map. The full tax appraisal database needs to
be linked to the GIS tax parcel digital coverage.
I• Tax Appraisal Software
1 55

Carteret County utilizes Bormuth software for its tag appraisal. Bormuth became one of the
leading tax appraisal software systems in North Carolina in the 1980s and early 1990s. These
systems provided a solid, cost effective software solution that allowed tax departments to
carry out billing and collections of tag efficiently. However, with the implementation of
GIS, data sharing from the tag appraisal Bormuth system was found to be cumbersome, if
not impossible. The Bormuth system does not provide an easy way to download the tax file
for mergine_�into GIS files. Al Bormuth, the owner of the Bormuth software company, has
stated that by the end of March,1998 a download utility will be provided to his clients. This
utility will allow the county to download the tag file into a fixed length or comma delimited
file. This file can then be transferred to the GIS and merged with the GIS parcel layer. The
common attribute for merging is the tax identification number or pin number. Once
accomplished, the GIS tag parcel layer will have all of the tax appraisal information. This is
critical for the county as well as all of the munidpalities.
Figure 4 -
rProcess of Transferring Tax File to GIS
1
11
The Bormuth system is currently configured so it resides on hardware that utilizes
VAX/VMS operating system. Digital Equipment Corporation was one of the leading
companies in the 1980s. They provided hardware solutions that utilized VMS as the
operating system. Digital Equipment Corporation was left behind in the fast changing
computer market and teetered on the edge of dissolution. The VMS operating system,
although quite powerfiil, was abandoned by the market and eventually by Digital Equipment
Corporation. ii puty software companies f er ESRI,.lhc provider of Carteret County's
GIS software) abandoned all support of VMS. Bormuth was slow to convert their software
to a mainstream operating system such as Windows NT. Therefore, clients like Carteret
County are having to deal with an operating system that is archaic and unsupported.
Carteret County has begun to move to Windows NT. It is highly recommended that
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Carteret County abandon all VMS based machines as soon as is feasible. The best =grade
path would be a continual move to Windows NT.
The Carteret County Tax Administrator is not satisfied with support and upgrades of the
Bormuth software and intends on purchasing another system next fiscal year (1999-2000). It
is recommended that any new tax appraisal system meet basic open systems criteria. The
system should be able to export attribute data into an ASCII file, network easily with other
computers, and reside on a mainstream hardware/software platform such as Windows NT
or Unix.
The tax department utilizes MS Office software. They also utilize Arc/Info and ArcView
software. Carteret County should continue to utilize these products. Recently. Carteret
County Tax Department has developed a plan and a vision for the effective and efficient use
of GIS. Vicki Landingham, Tax Administrator, is devel�ing conceptual plans that
address Qpera ' tem9, the ESRI Suite of GIS products, the tax appraisal system.
timb9ng and education, and the sharing of data between the county an d
ThpaP mane mmnliment the vision of a regional GIS.
• Hardware and Networking
The Bormuth tax system resides on Digital Equipment Corporation computers and runs an
obsolete operating system (VMS). Traditionally, the tax department utilized dumb ASCII
terminals to gain entry to the Bortnuth system. This type of terminal allowed users access to
information. System users cannot perform any sophisticated analysis. The tax department
has begun to move to Windows 95 as a replacement to the ASCII terminals. Also, they have
be n to =lace the VMS based systems with Windows NT based systems.
The tax department currently leases its GIS and tax hardware. These are all Digital
Equipment Corporation computers and are leased from Bormuth. There is no comp lung
reason to continue to buy -Digital Fquipment computers as the ugaade to Windows
NT continues. There are many vendors that provide Windows NT hardware solutions
other than Digital Equipment. Dell, Gateway; IBM, Compaq, etc all offer flexible NT
solutions. All of these companies offer leasing arrangements.
The current tax system requires the use of an expensive and obsolete networking solution.
To exchange data, the use of PathWorks networking from Digital Equipment is required.
The networking cards cost $450 apiece and are not compatible with any other hardware.
The county is now starting to utilize Ethernet and should strive to replace the PathWorks
connections as soon as possible. Ethernet cards are less than $100 apiece and are the
industry standard
• Data Processing Manager
Currently, the county is relying on outside vendors to provide all computing and networking
setup and support. The county government is now at the size where they need to hire a
Data Processing Manager. This manager could help the county purchase compatible
equipment and handle all the installation and maintenance. The manager could help make
software decisions for the new tax appraisal system. A Data Processing Merger should
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be hired as soon as possible. The savings in support, installation, and other outside
computing fees would justify the position. Other intangible issues support this decision such
as expertise that would address the issues of uniformity and compatibility of computers,
software purchases, and hardware purchases.
e GIS/Mapping
GIS and Mapping are separate divisions within the tax department. However, since the
work they do is closely related, they will be discussed as one in this report. Hereafter, GIS
and Mapping will be referred to as GIS. The GIS division has excellent and knowledgeable
staff and many useful GIS databases. Tbev are currently constrained by the
hardware/operating sys_ t Vlatform.
e System Configuration
Carteret County's GIS is based on a cluster of VMS based Digital Equipment (DEC)
workstations and one Windows NT based workstation. The GIS group is committed to a
gradual move to Windows NT as the operating system for GIS. However, this will require
some hardware replacements. GIS has a mix of Alpha workstations and 4000 workstations
all from Digital Equipment. The 4000 series workstations can only run VMS and will
require replacement. The Alpha series can run VMS or NT. Windows NT should be
implemented on these workstations.
Figure 5 -
It
Carteret County GIS Layout
BectroStatic Plotter PC Running PathWorks HP InkJet Plotter
58

The GIS section has three digitizers for updating and creating data layers. This quantity is
sufficient for updating the GIS. For map plotting they have a Versatec eletro-static plotter
and a Hewlett-Packard Designjet 750C. These two devices should be able to handle any
plotting needs of the county.
The network is comprised of 10-baseT Ethernet and the proprietary PathWorks. Currently,
plot files are created on the VMS based machines, are transferred to a PC running
PathWorks, and then sent to the plotter. Once the upgrade to Windows NT is complete, the
PathWorks connectivity should be discarded. Direct plotting to the devices will be available.
• Software
Carteret County is utilizing Arc/Info and ArcView GIS software. GIS data should continue
to be created and maintained using Arc/Info. Other users will be able to access and use the
data with ArcView and MapObjects programs. ArcEdit is used to update the tag parcel and
' other layers. ArcEdit is a standard part of the Arc/Info software package and has very
robust editing tools. ESRI has droWed support for the VMS operating system. eref r
any new upgrades to the software cannot be utilized. This is another reason to move swiftly
�. away from VMS to Windows NT. For any novice data entry person, it may be usefiil to
1 ut laze th Land—ecords menu drim system for updau= ttax parcel data (Figure 6).
LandRecords is a standard application that is supplied with Arc/Info.
The crucial missing component in the tag mapping GIS effort is the link to the full appraisal
i �
database. As discussed in the last section, Bormuth and Associates have promised an easy to
use download utility by the end of March. As soon as this becomes available, the full tag
Y assessment database should be linked to the tax parcels and updated once a week. Arc/Info
can easily import this data once it is converted to an ASCII file. The Arc/Info upload task
should be automated within an AML (native programming language of Arc/Info). Once
accomplished, GIS users can then query any parcel and obtain a number of useful attributes
(Figure 7)•
j Figure 6 - Utilizing Land Records for Parcel Update
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' Another critical data layer maintained by GIS is the street centerline database (Figure 8).
This layer contains centerlines and relational attributes of all streets within Carteret County.
' These attributes typically include street name, and block numbers, prefix, suffix, and address
ranges. This layer is very detailed and extremely useful. This information is critical for
emergency services and law enforcement. Timely maintenance of this layer is very
important. This layer will be one that needs to be shared on a regular basis. Emergency
services should have direct connection to this layer.
1
Figure 8 - Sample Street Centerline Layer
tee:
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• Current Data Layers
Many data layers have been created or purchased for use in Carteret County. They reside on
the current VMS based GIS at the county. They can be accessed and distributed by the
county's Windows NT GIS workstation. The following data layers are available:
Table 4 - Data Layers Available from Carteret County
GISb�
ka ,. matesy �r�*..���yi
_ . ,d. :✓1 ti..w} � i r�
4F ::� _�'!'Y .'SP�-4., �� .f�• F'l? r.-LTr "�3: �v
Tax Parcels
Parcel Polygons with Owners, Pin Number,
Dimensions, and Other Data for Each Parcel
Other Parcel Lines
Easements, Land Hooks, Subdivision Corners, Ellipse,
and Original Lot Lines if Two Lots are Combined
Core Banks
Core Banks Property Lines
Index
Grid System for Mapping
Commissioner Districts
County Commissioner Districts
Pipe Line
Water Lines for Cape Carteret, Cedar Point, Bogue, and
lHwy 24
Water
Water Lines for SR 1300 East Carteret High School
North to Water Tank
61

m m m m m m ! I� 'm -lam i m m M� m M � m
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City
City Limit Lines
County
County Boundaries
Fire
Fire District Lines
Miscellaneous
Condo Unit Numbers, Easements, and Utility Rights of
Way
Original Lot
Original Lot Lines When Began GIS
Rescue
Rescue District Lines
Soil
Soil Coverage
Tiger File
US Bureau of the Census Tiger Line Files
Township
Township Boundaries
S3rnkbols
Land Hooks and Symbols
Waterl
Water Lines on Bogue Banks
Water2
Water Lines Western Part of County
Water3
Water Lines Eastern Part of County
Newlul
Land Use on Bogue Banks
Newlu2
Land Use Western Part of County
Newlu3
Land Use Eastern Part of County
Zoning
County Zoning
Sheriff
Sheriff Districts
Shellfish
Shellfish Leases in County Waters With Owners,
Addresses, Township, Lease and Location
Vofingcen
Voting Precincts per Census and NC General Assembly
Atbeach t2
Atlantic Beach E911 Addresses
Adanticpt2
Atlantic E911 Addresses
Bfiptl
South River Area of Beaufort E911 Addresses
Bftpt2
Downeast area of Beaufort E911 Addresses
Bftpt3
Remainder of Beaufort E911 Addresses
Cedatpt2
Cedar Island E911 Addresses
County Rd
County Roads and Roads Names
Dotquad2
Original Road Coverage Before Corrections and
Additions
Emisle t2
Emerald Isle E911 Addresses
Harkpt2
Harkers Island E911 Addresses
Other E911 Layers
Various other E911 Address Layers
ZIPCode
Zip Code Layer
Nbrhd
Carteret County N ' hborhoods with Codes
Emerald
Emerald Isle Zoning Codes
BFHIS
Beaufort Historical Sites with Owner Names
Underground Tanks
Carteret County Underground Tanks with Addresses,
Capacity and Material
Mobile Home Parks
Carteret County Mobile Home Parks
Hog Farms
Coverage Depicting Location of Hog Farms
Wetlands
Unrecorded Surveys that Designate Wetlands for
Westem Carteret County
62

Wetlands East
Unrecorded Surveys that Designate Wetlands for
Eastern Carteret County
Wetlands Corps
Recorded or Unrecorded Surveys Certified by the Corp
of Engineers of Designated 404 Wetlands for Bogue
Banks
Wetlands Corps 2
404 Wetlands for Western Carteret County
Wetlands Corps 3
1404 Wetlands for Eastern Carteret County
• Hardware and Software
Carteret County Emergency Services has had access to GIS for the last few years. The first
GIS system in place was Emergency Information System (EIS). This system was not user
friendly. The software was Disk Operating System (DOS) based and when Emergency
Services moved to Windows they decided to stop using the software.
The dispatch system currently uses LogiSYS software. LogiSYS runs on a Unix based
hardware platform. This platform allows networking with Windows 95 and Windows NT.
LogiSYS has a GIS component. Dispatch operators can display the location of any address
in the county. However, LogiSYS GIS does not have a simple link to the Arc/Info
databases created by the GIS division. Therefore, 911 personnel have to input the street
centerline and address information into the LogiSYS system separately. In effect, this is
requiring that the same information be entered into two different GIS databases. The
County is considering acquiring a new 911 system. It is recommended that this new system
have the capacity to utilize Arc/Info layers.
Emergency Services purchased MapInfo to facilitate improved analysis and mapping.
Although MapInfo is an effective GIS product, it cannot directly utilize Arc/Info. MapInfo
runs on a personal computer and has similar functionality to ArcView. However, ArcView
would be the software of choice for emergency services because it ufflizes native Arc/Info
files. No conversion is required. It is recommended that Emergmgy Services immediately
rcpla�pInfo with ArcView. ArcView will allow staff to accomplish all of their tasks
with more ease then MapInfo. Emergency Services has six personal computers. They utti1ize
Windows 95, two of which have MapInfo. Each of these computers should eventually be
networked to access GIS data.
' • Access to GIS Data
' Emergency Services is responsible for assigning addresses within Carteret County. The
current process is as follows:
1
63

Figure 9 -
I
Process of Assigning Addresses and Entering Data
4
t f f � •� L.F
1 9
Emergency Services need timely, accurate, and up-to-date data. There is no physical link to
the County's GIS system. There are no compatible tape drives between Emergency Services
and GIS. Therefore, no method exists to transfer data between the two systems.
Due to lack of access to GIS data, Emergency Services hired a consultant to convert the data
into a useable MapInfo format. Taylor Technics of Hillsborough, N.C. was contracted to
provide this service. However, by the time the data gets converted and is delivered back to
Emergency Services, the information is outdated. The contract is for one conversion a year.
This does not satisfy the need for up-to-date data.
Option I
The best solution for Emergency Services is to have a direct connection to the GIS network.
The Emergency Services building should be networked by fiber optics to the Tag
Dcpartment/GIS. This would require the purchase of the following.
1

Table 5 - Network Solutions
Hardware Needed
Mom Reside
Cost
10 Base T Hub
Emergency Services
$1,000
Emergency
Category 5 Cable 200 Feet
ServiceslGIS
$20
Emergency
Fiber to UTP Converter x 2
Services/GIS
$1,000
Emergency
1000' of Fiber
Services/GIS
$500
Installation and Testing
NA
$1,000
Setup of Data Sharing Drive
GIS
$500
Can be Done In
House or Outsourced.
Running of Fiber Between
If outsounced will
Buildings
INA
need a site su
Total Cost if Cable Run In -
House
1
1 $4,2
It is recommended that the materials and installation be purchased from Benchmark
' Network Solutions of Raleigh. Their phone number is 919-781-6545.
Option 1 is the recommended solution. This would continually give current information to
Emergency Services. Data sharing is critical in GIS. A comprehensive network should be
systematically installed throughout the county. As mentioned earlier, a Data Processing
Manager could facilitate and oversee these tasks.
If this network option is adopted it would make assigning of addresses much more efficient.
As Emergency Services adds new addresses they could enter this information directly. It
would eliminate the need to pass the data back to the GIS section for data entry. The GIS
section should still input the street centerlines and some attributes. However, it makes sense
for the address ranges on the centerlines to be maintained by Emergency Services. These
' updated GIS layers will be available for use in the 911-dispatch application.
Option 2
It is recommended that the GIS division acquire a writeable CD drive. The GIS division
could copy up-to-date data to this CD at a specified interval (weekly is suggested). A
"sneakemet approach" (manually walking the CD over to another building) would facilitate
upload of current data The data would then be loaded on the PC in Emergency Services.
Needed Layers
Emergency Services need access to a variety of GIS layers. They need as much information
' as possible to assist in their decision making. They have identified the following layers as a
priority:
ITable 6 - Data Layers Required by Emergency Services
65

1
I
1
I,]
1
1
GIS Layer Needed -
Notes
Tax Parcels
Parcel Polygons with Owners, Pin Number, Dimensions, and
Other Data for Each Parcel
FEMA Flood Zones
New Zones Have Been Distributed on CD
SLOSH (surge data
From National Weather Service
Street Centerlines
With Address Ranges for Address Matching
Hazardous Chemical Storage
Underground Tanks, Dry Cleaners, etc. Sara Title III Data
School Locations
Good to see in relation to flood and sure data
Vital Facilities
Police Stations Fire Departments, Schools, etc.
Pipe Line
Water Lines for Cape Carteret, Cedar Point, Bogue, and Hwy 24
Water
Water Lines for SR 1300 East Carteret High School North to
Water Tank
City
City Limit Lines
County
County Boundaries
Fire
Fire District Lines
Miscellaneous
Condo Unit Numbers, Easements, and Utility Rights of Way
Rescue
Rescue District Lines
Waterl
Water Lines on Bogue Banks
Water2
Water Lines Western Part of County
Water3
Water Lines Eastern Part of County
Sheriff
Sheriff Districts
Atbeach t2
Atlantic Beach E911 Addresses
Atlantiqpt2
Atlantic E911 Addresses
Bfkptl
South River Area of Beaufort E911 Addresses
Bftpt2
Downeast area of Beaufort E911 Addresses
Bftpt3
Remainder of Beaufort E911 Addresses
Cedaipt2
Cedar Island E911 Addresses
County Rd
County Roads and Roads Names
Emisle t2
Emerald Isle E911 Addresses
Harkpt2
Harkers Island E911 Addresses
Other E911 Layers
Various other E911 Address Layers
Nbrhd
Carteret County Neighborhoods with Codes
Underground Tanks
Carteret County Underground Tanks with Addresses, Capacity
and Material
Mobile Home Parks
Carteret County Mobile Home Parks
Hog Farms
Coverage Depicting Location of Hog Farms
Wetlands
Unrecorded Surveys that Designate Wetlands for Western
Carteret Co!!Ety
Wetlands East
Unrecorded Surveys that Designate Wetlands for Eastern
Carteret Coup
Wetlands Corps
Recorded or Unrecorded Surveys Certified by the Corp of
En ' eers of Designated 404 Wetlands for Bogue Banks
Wetlands Corps 2
404 Wetlands for Western Carteret County
Wetlands Corps
1404 Wetlands for Eastern Carteret County
66

1
1
I
1
Emergency Services should use ArcView to display these layers. A simple click of a check
bog would turn this information on or off (Figure 10).
Figure 10 - Using ArcView to Display Data for Emergency Services
PLanning Department
Planning Departments nation-wide utilize GIS technology in some of the most diverse and
extensive ways. Almost all tasks carried out in Planning relate to geography. Therefore, GIS
is the logical tool for Planners and Planning Departments. Carteret County's Planning
Department oversees zoning issues, planning activities, building regulations, floodway
notification and regulation, and development activities.
Carteret County's Planning Department is comprised of thirteen employees, four
administrative, two planners, six inspectors and the director. All of these employees have a
need for GIS and could benefit from immediate access to the system.
• Hardware and Software
Planning has one workstation linked to the GIS Department on the first floor. This
a re eun
Figure 11- o.
Carteret County
Planning
Department
1 - 67

C�
workstation Vie Version 1. This is one of the VAX VMS systems discussed in the
ksta on runs ArcView Vr / y
1 GIS section of this document. The VMS based workstations are obsolete and should be
systematically replaced. Planning should strive to acquire Windows 95 based PCs to run
ArcView3 and any custom GIS applications. The specifications for such a system are as
' follows:
Recommended Configuration
o Windows 95 or NT
0 32 MB of Ram
0 15" Screen
0 200 MHz or greater
' 0 200 MB of Unused Disk Space
o CD-ROM Drive
o Diskette Drive
0 10 MBPS Ethernet card
Planning has one new PC that meets these requirements. It is recommended that this
' should be linked to the GIS network as soon as is possible.
Networking
The Planning Department does not have easyaccess to GIS data. The County as a whole
should begin networking its computers. This will prepare for the eventual upgrades of
systems as well as GIS utilization. Planning_ should purchase a small 10 base T hub. Each
newer PC should be attached to this hub. The hub should be connected with the existing
hub in the Tax Administration Department. This would facilitate data sharing and access to
GIS. Once this link has been established, GIS data will be available to the Planning
Department. A Data Processing Manager should help with these tasks.
• Applications
After connectivity has been established, Planning can start performing GIS analysis.
Customized programs should be written for many of the Planning Department's tasks. Staff
should attend training in ArcView and for customized programs.
Nod6cation ofZonrng Change
Planners spend a great deal of time creating mailing lists. Whenever a rezoning is proposed,
residents within a few hundred feet need notification about the proposed change. This
requires a time consuming process of checking tax maps and determining addresses. A
zoning change notification system should be implemented with GIS. This program will
allow the user to generate a search radius around a proposed rezoning and create standard
form letters and mailing labels. A program exists that utilizes ArcView to accomplish this
task. Carteret County Planning should acquire this program. The program is called
AvNotify and AvReports. The cost is $1,100 and can be purchased from:
IDigital Engineering Corporation
1
68

1
9841 Broken Land Parkway
Suite 106
iColumbia, MD 21046
410-290-5244
r
Figure 12 - Zoning. Notification Program
Flood Plain Query Program
The Planning Department has a great deal of difficulty in the management of the floodway.
It is the responsibility of the Planning Department to keep citizens aware of their flood plain
status. Having an accurate inventory of properties located in the flood plain can lead to
substantial cost savings and can ultimately save lives. Automated flood plain management
will increase the level of Carteret County's Community Rating System (CRS). A flood plain
query program should be written utilizing MapObjects or ArcView. This application would
allow a user to zoom to a piece of property by tax id number, address, or owner. A detailed
map and report could then be printed. A GIS generated list of all residents in the flood plain
would be invaluable for notification purposes.
Generic Data Browser
n
1 69

1
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1
Western Office
The Western Office needs access to GIS data. '1'E+is can be accomplished by utilizing the
writeable CD drive that has been recommended for the GIS division. Data would be written
to the CD at set intervals and sent to the Western Office for use on a PC with a CD drive.
Sheriff Dcpartment
Sheriff and Police Departments throughout the United States are adopting GIS for a variety
of tasks. GIS is invaluable for decision making and can save time, lives, and money. The
Sheriffs Doartment should adopt the technology over the next few years. GIS connectivity
should be a priority when evaluating any new dispatch or incident reporting software. The
Sheriffs Department should network with the other County departments. They could
benefit from a similar scenario to the one presented for Emergency Services. A fiber optic
line run from the Sheriffs office back to the main County building will allow direct access to
tax records, GIS, and Emergency Services.
Incident Analysis
Currently, LogiSYS is used for dispatch and incident reports. The possibility of moving to
another system is being analyzed. A useful application would tie the data on the system to a
computerized map. This will assist in visualizing crime patterns and locating resources.
Incident data should be downloaded at a set interval and address matched to the street
centerline database to create a point layer of crimes. ArcView can then be used to display
these crimes in a variety of ways.
Figure 14 - Using GIS for Crime Analysis
Other Public Safety Applications
The uses for GIS in Public Safety are numerous. Other potential uses of GIS in Public
Safety include:
71

The abilityto view data in a quick and easy format is important for local government and
especially planning. A generic data browser is being recommended for use throughout the
' county and by the smaller communities. This will allow for quick viewing and printing of
GIS data. The generic data browser is discussed in more detail later in the smaller
communities section. A program like this could be deployed on each personal computer in
Planning.
fl
1
117
FAI
Figure 13 - Generic Data Browser
BuMingPermit Veri&cadon Program
There are many variables and restrictions that stand in the way of a building permit.
Consideration is given to zoning, watershed restrictions, flood plain, rights -of -way,
easements, historical structures, and many other factors. Often it is difficult to verify this
information in the field. Infrastructure may be underground or hard to determine. Unifying
this information into one GIS interface wM enable visual checking for any restrictions on a
building permit before issuance. Restrictions possibly overlooked in the field become
obvious on the screen. This application should be written in MapObjects have a similar look
to the Generic Data Browser discussed in the last section. Contact has been made with
SBCCI, the supplier of Planning's building permit data base program. They stated that their
Idata could be linked to a GIS by exporting the files into ASCII format.
I - 70

F,
• Weekly Pin Map
• Hot Spot Analysis —Locates areas of abnormally high crime
• Court Case Support
' • Logistical Support
• Optimal location and creation of response areas
• Optimal siting of facilities
2.5.6 Other Departments
All departments can benefit from access to GIS, data. A systematic networking and
dissemination of GIS data should begin immediately. Each department would benefit from
a simple to use generic data browser interface to GIS data. This type of interface can be
deployed on a Windows 95 PC for a few hundred dollars.
• Internal Data Sharing
There are two recommendations for sharing data between County departments. The first
recommendation involves writing the data to CD-ROM. This can be accomplished by
adding a writeable compact disk drive to the Windows NT GIS terminal. A systematic
automated conversion of Arc/Info coverages to ArcView shapefiles is recommended.
These files would then be written to the CD-ROM and distributed to the appropriate
departments.
The second recommendation, a network, is the best option for departments located in close
physical proximity to the GIS division. Emergency Services, Planning, and the Sheriff
Department should all access data by this method.
• External Data Sharing
External data sharing will be accomplished with the writeable CD drive in the GIS division.
Each organization that requires updates of data should establish a mutually agreeable update
schedule for supply of this data.
Carteret County's GIS data should be accessed via the Internet. Carteret County Tag
Department has ex...pressed an interest in establishing an Internet server and serving a variety
of data to the public. ESRI provides two products for serving GIS data on the web. These
are MapObjects Internet Server and ArcView Internet Server. Either product would suffice
and should be strongly considered for the 1999-2000 budget cycle. Again, having a Data
Processing Manager to oversee these tasks would be beneficial.
Matrix #1 graphically illustrates County departments and associated GIS capabilities.
1 72

' The abilityto view data in a quick and easy format is important for local government and
especially planning. A generic data browser is being recommended for use throughout the
' county and by the smaller communities. This will allow for quick viewing and printing of
GIS data. The generic data browser is discussed in more detail later in the smaller
communities section. A program like this could be deployed on each personal computer in
Planning.
u
17
t�
r
L
Figure 13 - Generic Data Browser
Bur7ding Pcm:it Vcrrfication Program
There are many variables and restrictions that stand in the way of a building permit.
Consideration is given to zoning, watershed restrictions, flood plain, rights -of -way,
easements, historical structures, and many other factors. Often it is difficult to verify this
information in the field. Infrastructure may be underground or hard to determine. Unifying
this information into one GIS interface will enable visual checking for any restrictions on a
building permit before issuance. Restrictions possibly overlooked in the field become
obvious on the screen. This application should be written in MapObjects have a similar look
to the Generic Data Browser discussed in the last section. Contact has been made with
SBCCI, the supplier of Planning's building permit data base program. They stated that their
data could be linked to a GIS by exporting the files into ASCII format.
I - 70

M M M M M M M m M M M M M M M M M
MATRIX #1- GIS IN CARTERET COUNTY DEPARTMENTS
TYPE OF GIS
OPERATING
MEDIA
NETWORKING
NUMBER OF
USED
SYSTEM
CAPABILITIES
TRAINED GIS
STAFF
TAX
Arc/Info
VAXfVMS
4 mm tape
DEC PathWorks
2 GIS staff
DEPARTMENT
ArcView
Migration to
Migrating to Ethernet
4 mapping staff
(Bormuth for tax
Windows NT
a raisal
PLANNING
ArcView 1
VAXNVMS
3 % disk
One workstation
No GIS staff
DEPARTMENT
linked to GIS
EMERGENCY
MapInfo
Windows 95
3 '/Z disk
None
1 Mapinfo user, no
SERVICES
Dispatch uses
formal training
* Sheriff's Department
LogiSYS
does not utilize GIS
* Data sharing between ArcJInfo and Bormuth System is not possible at this time.
73

m m= m m m m -m m _m m am m m i m r m m
MATRIX #2 - GIS IN MUNICIPALITIES
POPULATION
TYPE OF GIS
OPERATING
MEDIA
NETWORKING
NUMBER OF
USED
SYSTEM
CAPABILITIES
TRAINED GIS
STAFF
MOREHEAD
7560
MapInfo
Windows 95
3 Yz disk, CD-
No
1
CITY
ArcView 3
ROM
BEAUFORT
4032
None
N/A
N/A
No
0
NEWPORT
2784
MapInfo
Windows 95
3 % disk
No
1
EMERALD
2798
None
N/A
N/A
Yes
0
ISLE
ATLANTIC
2267
MapInfo - Not
Windows 95
3 % disk
N/A
0
BEACH
Used
PINE KNOLL
1586
None'
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
SHORES
CAPE
1179
None
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
CARTERET
CEDAR POINT
688
None
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
BOGUE
465
None
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
PELETIER
336
None
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
INDIAN
177
None
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
BEACH
74

1
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r_J
MUNICIPALI77ES OF CAR TERET COUNlY
Carteret County municipalities are in the early stages of utilizing GIS. Matrix #2 graphically
illustrates the extent to which each community is using GIS.
Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach has an unused copy of MapInfo. This was purchased by the city but has not
been utilized for any planning or hazard mitigation tasks. It is recommended that ArcView
replace MapInfo.
The following GIS needs were identified for Atlantic Beach:
• Create their own zoning maps
• Accurate map book of fire stations
• Tracking fire hydrant inspections
• Accurate maps of water system
• Accurate maps of storm water system
• Tracking fire history
• Land use planning
• Flood plain management
Beaufort is not currently using GIS. It is recommended that Beaufort purchase a copy of
ArcView. This will facilitate access to important GIS data.
The following GIS needs were identified for Beaufort:
• Creating zoning maps
• Track all infrastructure; hydrants/sewer lines, water lines, catchbasins, lift stations, etc.
• Flood plain management
• Land use planning
• Citizen notification for board of adjustment meeting. Geographic search radius for
generating mailing labels
• Accurate digital dispatch mapping for emergency services
Morehead City has a strong desire to expand the use of GIS throughout City departments.
The City has been using GIS for a few years. They have been using MapInfo to create maps.
Little GIS analysis has been performed
Obtaining access to existing data layers has been the major problem in recent years. They
need frequent parcel updates from Carteret County. Without an updated parcel layer, any
75

GIS updates at the municipal level are fiuidess. Morehead City needs access to the
cartographic representation of the tax parcel and the full host of atinbutes on the county's
tax appraisal system.
Data transfer from the county has been a difficult process due to the incompatible hardware
and software platforms of the city and county. However, the county has adopted Windows
NT as the platform of choice for upgrading their equipment. The county's GIS division has
a Windows NT personal computer now. Data sharing from this platform is much easier. It
' has been recommended that the County purchase a writeable CD drive to publish GIS data
for use intemally and externally. A less expensive option would be to share data via ZIP
drives form IOMEGA. However, this format does not store as much data as a CD and is
not used universally throughout Carteret County.
Another stumbling block to data sharing has been that the county and city have different
GIS software packages. The city has MapInfo products and the county has ESRI products.
ESRI has agreed to replace all copies of MapInfo free of charge. Morehead City has taken
advantage of this and is now utilizing ArcView.
• Morehead City Fire Department
The Morehead City Fire Department understands the benefits afforded by GIS. They have
been utilizing the GIS capabilities and expertise of the Morehead City Planning Department.
The Fire Department also needs access to a variety of GIS data layers. They have identified
the following as a list of priorities:
0 Continued improvement of E911 mapping and dispatch. Optimal routing capabilities
o Optimal fire department location or relocation
o Map books for all streets
o Maps depicting accurate locations of fire hydrants
o Having laptops for field inspectors with an accurate digital map of system and a field
inspections tracking program
v Flood way management. Optimal routing especially during floods
Nmort
Newport uses MapInfo with a link to Arc/Info for planning tasks. The GIS is used for
zoning and for FEMA Q3 Flood Data. The Q3 data is used to calculate vulnerability in the
event of a flood. Newport currently has an older copy of a parcel/cadastral database but no
copies of 911 or centerline databases. Newport is willing to change over from MapInfo to
the ESRI products. Currently, there is one Pentium PC that is available for GIS.
Emerald Isle. Bogue, Pine Bnoll Shores, Indian Beach, Cape Carteret. Cedar Point.
Peleti r
A large proportion of municipalities in Carteret County have limited access to GIS or GIS
data. All of these communities would benefit from at least a basic mapping and visualization
GIS application. These organizations could benefit by utilizing ArcView and acquiring data
1 76

F
Tier 1 PC to run Arc/Info (Carteret County)
❑ 1 Windows NT Server and 1 Windows NT Workstation Operating System
❑ 233 MHz Pentium PC or greater
❑ 64 MB or RAM or greater
❑ 17" High Resolution Screen or greater
❑ Diskette Drive
❑ Iomega Zip Drive
u 24x CD-ROM Drive
❑ 8 Gigabyte Hard Drive for Workstation 16 Gigabyte or greater for Server
❑ 100 MBPS Ethernet card
Tier2PC to tun ArcYiew
Minimum Configuration
o Windows 3.1
❑ 16 MB of Ram
a 15" Screen
❑ 100 MHz
0 100 MB of Unused Disk Space
❑ Diskette Drive
❑ 10 MBPS Ethernet card
Recommended Configuration
❑ Windows 95 or NT
❑ 32 MB of Ram
0 15" Screen
0 200 MHz or greater
0 200 MB of Unused Disk Space
o CD-ROM Drive
v Diskette Drive
❑ 10 MBPS Ethernet card
Tier 3 PC to Run MapObjects Custom Applications (Generic Data Browser)
Mu imum Configuration
Cl Windows 95 or NT
u 32 MB of Ram
❑ 15" Screen
0 133 MHz
0 100 MB of Unused Disk Space
v Diskette Drive
Recommended Configuration
o Windows 95 or NT
0 32 MB of Ram
0 15" Screen
0 200 MHz or greater
❑ 100 MB of Unused Disk Space
o CD-ROM Drive
1 - 78

o Diskette Drive
0 10 MBPS Ethemet card
1
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1 79

LAND USE PLANNING: GIS NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND
CAPABILITY ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
Land use planning is a type of development management policy used to influence the
amount and type of development or redevelopment in order to achieve public interest
objectives. Land use plans act as guidelines for orienting growth of a community by
identifying community objectives and providing desirable patterns of development. These
plans may designate high hazard areas and establish certain standards for development in
them. Land use plans are required for local governments within the twenty coastal counties
as mandated by the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) of North Carolina. CAMA
requires that a community's land use plan be updated every five years to ensure that current
issues that are faced by each community are considered and included. A review every five
years also serves to show what development strategies have or have not been successful.
Land Use Plans typically include an analysis of existing conditions, including population,
economy, land use, and current plans and regulations effecting land use. The suitability of
the land for development is discussed, as well as any constraints on development. Existing
community facilities and municipal services are also reviewed and evaluated to see if they are
sufficient to handle all of the community's current and projected needs.
Policy decisions are based on land use trends, constraints to land development and citizen
input. Day-to-day local, state, and federal decisions for the community will be based upon
these policies for funding, projects, project consistency, project funding, and permits.
Having good information about the people, places, and things in the community is
invaluable for producing a good Land Use Plan. Many people use a GIS to obtain accurate,
detailed, up-to-date information about their community in the form of digital maps.
CAR7ERET COUNTYAND LAND USE PLANNING
Carteret County's Land Use Plan is designed to comply with the requirements of the
subchapter 7B of the North Carolina Coastal Management Act (CARA). These guidelines
define the intent of the land use plans:
"Local governments, through the land use process,address issues and
g � � Pig
adopt policies that guide the development of their community. Many decisions
affecting development are made by other levels of government, and local policies
must take account of and coincide with established state and federal policies. Most
decisions, however, are primarily of local concern. By carefully and explicitly
addressing these issues, other levels of government will follow local policies that deal
with these issues. State and federal agencies will use the local land use plans and
policies in making project consistency, funding and permit decisions. Policies which
consider the type of development to be encouraged, the density and patterns of
development, and the methods of providing beach access are examples of these local
policy decisions."
1 80

Carteret County's land use plan specifically provides for the following.
1. An analysis of existing conditions, including a land use map;
2. A projected land development analysis;
3. A summary of public interests and participation;
4. A land classification system;
5. A detailed section of policy statements;
6. An analysis of the carrying capacity of public facilities with a demand/supply
analysis
7. A discussion of the issue of ailing septic tanks and permitting;
8. An analysis of the issues concerning the development of the NC 24 Corridor,
9. A discussion of the US 70 corridor annexation by Morehead City;
10. A summary of 404 wetland areas and issues;
11. An analysis of maritime forest issues;
12. A discussion of the preservation of dune area; and
13. An explanation of the relationship of the policies to the land classification
Source: Carteret County, NC 1996 Land Use Plan
Carteret County has experienced a great deal of growth since 1970. This population growth
has put a great deal of pressure on the city's infrastructure and the environment,
necessitating an appropriate land use plan. This population pressure has come from a
variety of sources including military expansion, the development of recreation centers,
retirement centers, and industrial decentralization. The highest pressure has occurred on the
waterfront communities. These communities attract the greatest amount of tourists during
the summer season (May through August), which greatly adds to the current population.
The greatest growth rates between 1980 and 1994 occurred in Atlantic Beach, Emerald Isle,
Cape Carteret, Pine Knoll Shores, and Indian Beach.
The main functions of the planning department include:
u
Subdivision development
o
Zoning/Rezoning
ca
Handle existing Trailer Parks / RV Parks as well as their development
rf o
Handle Group Housing Cie Condos) / ordinances
■ o
Billboard ordinances
o
Some permitting
v
Budding inspections
The county planning department has a staff of 13, four of which are administrative. There is
1 director, 2 planners, 6 inspectors, and 4 clerks.
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Carteret County planners currently use Pin Books to manage their data. These are updated
annually. To locate information about the properties within Carteret County, a name is
entered into computer software. A list is produced of the pin and map number. To obtain
zoning for this location, the County Planner needs to refer to maps that date back to 1980
and look for the relevant information. A digital coverage is available, but only through a
very outdated copy of a GIS, which is too slow to be useful.
The following is a list of potential GIS applications that would assist Carteret County's
Planning Department.
Notr&cation ofZoning Change
Planners spend a great deal of time creating mailing lists. Whenever a rezoning is proposed,
residents within a few hundred feet need notification about the proposed change. This
requires a time consuming process of checking tax maps and determining addresses. A
zoning change notification system should be implemented with GIS. This program will
allow the user to generate a search radius around a proposed rezoning and create standard
form letters and mailing labels. A program exists that utilizes Arcriew to accomplish this
task. Carteret County Planning should acquire this program. The program is called
AvNotify and AvReports. The cost is $1,100 and can be purchased from:
Digital Engineering Corporation
9841 Broken Land Parkway
Suite 106
Columbia, MD 21046
410-290-5244
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Figure 12 - Zoning Notification Program
IFlood Plarin Query Program
The Planning Department has a great deal of difficulty in the management of the floodway.
It is the responsibility of the Planning Department to keep citizens aware of their flood plain
status. Having an accurate inventory of properties located in the flood plain can lead to
substantial cost savings and can ultimately save lives. Automated flood plain management
will increase the level of Carteret County's Community Rating System (CRS). A flood plain
query program should be written utilizing MapObjects or ArcVl-ew. This application would
allow a user to zoom to a piece of property by tax id number, address, or owner. A detailed
map and report could then be printed. A GIS generated list of all residents in the flood plain
would be invaluable for notification purposes.
GenerrcData Browser
The ability to view data in a quick and easy format is important for local government and
especially planning. A generic data browser is being recommended for use throughout the
county and by the smaller communities. This vM allow for quick viewing and printing of
GIS data. The generic data browser is discussed in more detail later in the smaller
communities section. A program hike this could be deployed on each personal computer in
Planning.
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Figure 13 - Generic Data Browser
Bur7dingPermit Verigcation Program
There are many variables and restrictions that stand in the way of a budding permit.
Consideration is given to zoning, watershed restrictions, flood plain, rights -of -way,
easements, historical structures, and many other factors. Often it is difficult to verify this
information in the field. Infrastructure may be underground or hard to determine. Unifying
this information into one GIS interface will enable visual checking for any restrictions on a
budding permit before issuance. Restrictions possibly overlooked in the field become
obvious on the screen. This application should be written in MapObjects have a similar look
to the Generic Data Browser discussed in the last section. Contact has been made with
SBCCI, the supplier of Planning's budding permit data base program. They stated that their
data could be linked to a GIS by exporting the files into ASCII format.
Carteret County performs some planning duties for the following communities. These
include: Cape Carteret, Cedar Point, Bogue, and Indian Beach.

UIPALITIES US P G 11III1Vl AND LAND E LAIVIVIIY
GIS is underutilized by Planning Departments in Carteret County.
Morehead City
Morehead City has already begun to use GIS in its planning activities. MapInfo is used, and
ArcView 3.0 is being phased into the planning department. In the past, MapInfo has been
used mostly for mapping in zoning, land use, and an E911 project instead of for GIS
analysis. Currently, zoning, annexation, and Special Use Permits/Variances are being input
into ArcView 3.0.
Beaufort
Beaufort currently works with hard copy information. No data exists in digital form.
Beaufort relies on the county for zoning and parcel data and occasionally obtains a scroll
from the county with information on parcels including owner, PIN, and address. Cross-
referencing the scroll information with the PIN map can be time consuming. Beaufort is
using hard copy maps that date back to the 1920s.
The city of Beaufort is very interested in GIS and would like to obtain desktop
software. Beaufort currently has a Magellian GPS 2000 receiver. The GPS receiver is to
be used in a storm water program for locating catchbasins, starting and discharge points, and
elevations. This information will then be put on hand drawn maps. It is recommended that
GPS data be uploaded into ArcView.
"' Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach communicates all land use planning to Carteret County but does not utilize
the County's data. Atlantic Beach contracts out its land use planning to McGee Drafting
Company. This company created Atlantic Beach's zoning maps. Any revisions to the map
since then have been done manually by using different colors of tape. Atlantic Beach has
one copy of MapInfo, but it is not utilized.
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iA consulting firm in Wilmington currently does Newport's Land Use Plan. Although this
firm does not have any GIS capability, Newport uses MapInfo with a link to Arc/Info for
other planning tasks. The GIS is used for zoning and for viewing FEMA Q3 Flood Data.
The Q3 data is used to calculate vulnerability in the event of a flood. Newport currently has
an older copy of a parcel/cadastral database but no copies of 911 or centerline databases.
Newport is willing to change over from MapInfo to the ESRI products. Currently, there is
one Pentium PC that is available for GIS.
Unlike many other municipalities in Carteret County, Newport does not utilize Southern
.. Budding Software. Instead, they have an in-house program written in COBOL.
Other Municipalities in Carteret County
Cape Carteret, Pine Knoll Shores, Emerald Isle, Cedar Point, Bogue, Peletier, Indian
Beach
Municipalities in Carteret County generally utilize a consulting firm to develop their 5-year
land use plans. Our research indicates that little or no GIS technology is used for the
development of these land use plans. Municipalities and consultants do not effectively
utilize any digital information stored at the county. Carteret County Planning Department
assists a few of the smaller municipalities with zoning or building inspections. It is apparent
that GIS is not used by these communities for land use planning activities.
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HAZARD MITIGATION, EMERGENCY RESPONSE: GIS NEEDS,
ASSESSMENTAND CAPABILITYANALYSIS
INTRODUC77ON
In the aftermath of hurricanes Fran and Bertha, the state of North Carolina has recognized
it's heightened vulnerability to damage inflicted by a steady barrage of weather events, such
as hurricanes, tornadoes, and heavy rains. Even less severe weather events such as the
Northeasters and Southeasters that consistently batter the Outer Banks and the barrier
islands are a common hazardous event.
North Carolina ranks third in the United States in terms of hurricane frequency. Florida and
Texas are the only states that rank higher. There have been 25 hurricanes in or near North
Carolina since 1940.
Hurricane Fran (CAT 3) was the most destructive storm in North Carolina history, leaving a
trail of destruction behind it LQ1WitM 4 billion dollars and 24 deaths. Hurricane Bertha,
combined with the passage of a frontal system that saturated the ground, allowed Fran to
become especially destructive.
Hurricane Hugo (CAT 3) struck through South Carolina and then western North Carolina in
September 1989. This caused 1 billion dollars of damage in North Carolina and 7 billion
dollars of damage overall. Hurricane Hazel (CAT 4) in 1954 did not match the dollar
damage that Fran and Hugo did, but it was a more powerful storm. It had winds up to 150
mph and a 17-foot storm surge. 19 people were killed and over 200 were injured. 15,000
homes and structures were completely destroyed and 39,000 were damaged. An
unnamed hurricane in 1883 killed 53 people, more then any other hurricane in North
Carolina. So far. no cateeorv-_ hurricanes have been known to make landfall on the North
Carolina Coasl. Some other hurricanes of interest include the following.
• 1985 Hurricane Gloria (CAT 3) - $8,000,000 of damage on the Outer Banks. Severe
erosion/flooding and one death.
• 1984 Hurricane Diana (CAT 2) - $80,000,000 of damage, one-third being agricultural, in
Southeast North Carolina. Widespread tree and power line damage. 3 deaths.
• 1971 Hurricane Ginger (CAT 1) - This hurricane is noted for its longevity. The storm
was tracked for 31 days, 20 of which it was at hurricane strength. $10,000,000 of damage
to agriculture.
• 1960 Hurricane Donna (CAT 3) - 8 people died and over 100 had injuries. 1 t ions of
dollars of damage. Two tornadoes were observed in connection to this hurricane.
• 1955 - Hurricane Ione (CAT 3) - This hurricane occurred after two earlier hurricanes
that season, Connie (CAT 3) and Diane (CAT 2). Ione caused 7 deaths and $88,000,000
of damage. The rainfall was without precedent in North Carolina This caused massive
flooding, and inundation of the greatest area of eastern North Carolina ever recorded.
At New Bern, the depth of water was 10.5 feet over mean low water, with 40 city blocks
flooded. Thousands of acres of farmland were flooded and thousands of homes were
invaded by water up to 4 feet. Several hundred homes washed away.
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Information on the natural hazards the community faces. How frequent and Intense are they?
Where are the areas ofpotential impacts?
• Infortnation on the developed areas in the community. Wbat is the population and what are
the types and locations of the structures?
rA GIS is an excellent tool for performing a vulnerability analysis. To prepare a GIS for a
vulnerability analysis, maps that illustrate the factors that determine vulnerability to natural
hazards should be obtained. These would then be entered into the computer generated
modeling system. The resulting maps can be layered to show the geographic areas that are
most vulnerable to natural hazards within the community.
The county tax map is one of the most important layers. This gives information on the
location, tax value, and date of construction of p�buildiap as well as the current use of
each parcel of land. Other important maps include boundaries, major roads, natural areas,
and zoning districts. Armed with this information, a town, city, or county can analyze vacant
and undeveloped parcels, by zoning district, by tax value, and by pre- and post -FIRM
construction. Additional data can be joined to these maps, including hazard identification
data, flood zones, and areas subject to hurricane storm surge.
The vulnerability of a community is assessed by parcel size, as well as for the entire
community. Vulnerability will be the least for vacant land, while the most vulnerable
properties will be those parcels with the following attributes:
• Structures that have a significant tax value (This would represent large financial losses in
the event of their destruction),
• A date of construction prior to the implementation of the FIRM (The building may not
be built to comply with standards for coastal construction)
• Located in the most hazardous areas for storm surge and flooding.
Natural hazards do not need to
occur more
frequently in the years to come to cause
substantial damage. Explosive development
and
increasing population density in the coastal
areas will make communities more
vulnerable.
Risk Factors
During a natural disaster, the community is faced with a variety of problems and risks. Some
of the more serious ones are as follows:
.Public Health
Contaminated water
:> Food spoilage
increased exposure to communicable
diseases
interruption and access to health
facilities:`
- "Sanitation and sewage treatment
�' ;disruptions
:` ::Exposure to dangerous animals

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Lost Property values
- Flooding and wind damage to residences, and
businesses
- Looting
- Displaced populations
- Lost business revenue
- Wages
- Increased unemployment
- Future Insurance costs
- Resettlement
Social and political disorganization
Hazard Mitigation
Hazard mitigation involves a number of actions that will reduce or eliminate the damage
from a disaster. Hazard Mitigation is defined as am sustained action taken to reduce long term risk
to human life and AwAtM fmm natural— By developing sufficient Hazard Mitigation
eak Plans, planners can bror minimize the cycle of damage, reconstruction, and repeated
damage. Structural mitigation involves dam and levee projects, retrofitting existing
structures to withstand the event, and other similar measures. Non-structural mitigation
activities include appropriate Land Use Plans, education, and other actions along those lines.
The recovery after Hurricane Fran and Hurricane Bertha should be viewed as an important
window of opportunity for discussing and implementing mitigation techniques. This requires
a comprehensive strategy that begins with local planning. Municipalities are strongly
encouraged to identify and implement good mitigation projects. These plans should also be
tied to their long-term redevelopment and daily operation plans. The state of North
Carolina will provide sound guidance and technical assistance whenever necessary regarding
plan development.
• Hazard Mitigation Begins with Local Government Planning
Local governments are most familiar with their local hazards, so they should be the ones to
define mitigation strategies. The North Carolina Division of Emergency Management
PEN) mitigation staff can assist local governments. The DEM group administers
Mitigation Planning Workshops and general technical assistance visits.
Local governments should become involved in hazard identification, risk assessment, and
the development of a mitigation plan. This will help to reduce damages from future natural
disasters, as well as contribute to public safety, and preserve the economy. These mitigation
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plans should be compatible with the State's Hazard Nfi ' lion Plan and the local
P P �
jurisdictions overall comprehensive planning process.
• Examples of Mi ' tion Techniques
P �
' L Retrofitting for High Wind Loads
Retrofitting existing structures to increase stability against winds is often an inexpensive
procedure. A simple but effective way to prevent glass breakage is to install shutters.
These can be as simple as plywood or as technical as motorized metal panels. Garage
doors can be reinforced as well. Attics can have transverse braces installed to reinforce
end walls, and connections running from the roof to the foundation can be added to
transfer force to the structure to the ground.
For more information on retrofitting buildings against natural hazards, Project Blue Sky
can be contacted. This is a program that provides technical assistance in this area. They
have a demonstration house near completion in Southern Shores.
2. Electrical Transmission & Distribution Lines
Poles and lines often sustain damage from high winds and falling vegetation. It is
important to keep the right-of-ways well maintained. This will limit the amount of
vegetation that can be a falling hazard.
3. Fallen Timber
Besides the obvious damage that falling timber can inflict on property, downed timber
adds to the potential for large and destructive forest fires. The downed timber also
increases the likelihood of Southern Pine Beetle infestation. Forest Service personnel
can find their movement impeded, which delays the creation of fire lanes and breaks.
Following Hurricane Fran, 144,990 miles of fire access roads were blocked by forest
debris. This reduced the ability of fire fighters to respond, leaving 223,000 structures at
risk. Lane clearing and removal of downed timber is very important in this regard.
The areas where development mingles with forests are known as urban wildfire
interfaces. These are areas that are particularly at risk during a natural disaster. In these
areas, wind -resistant species should be planted, trees should be pruned regularly, and
property owners should be informed of the risks.
1 4. Mitigation of Historic Structures
Historic structures are particularly vulnerable to high winds and flooding generated by
natural disasters. Historic structures are defined as buildings, structures, objects,
districts, and archeological sites. The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966
requires that every federal agency consider the impact of its actions on historic
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properties. � � ) reuires that q
Also the National Environmental Policy Act EPA
proposed projects be reviewed for adverse environmental impacts. Therefore, an
environmental assessment may be required before restoration is implemented. Also to
be considered is that the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and -the Advisory
Council for Historic Preservation must be consulted prior to the funding of any
mitigation projects involving historic properties. In 1996, a Programmatic Agreement
for Public Assistance and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program was ratified between the
Emergency Management, State Historic Preservation Office, FEMA, and the Advisory
Council on Historic Preservation. These terms should be included in all mitigation
activities that effect historic properties. Local communities should include a historic
preservation element in their mitigation plans. This should include a listing of all historic
properties, a list of the property owners, basic construction materials used, the structures
existing condition, and their location within the community.
5. Updating Flood Insurance Rate Maps
Accurate flood maps are invaluable in calculating vulnerability prior to a natural disaster
and for regulating construction. Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are produced by
FEMA for this purpose. However, these are not always accurate due to the dynamic
nature of a coastal community. Erosion is a primary concern in this matter. These
inaccuracies cause a serious problem in that structures may not be constructed or insured
to the appropriate standards. Therefore, it would be wise to use the best available data
while waiting for the updated FIRM maps. Best available data can be constructed by
tagging high water marks following a significant flood event. These can be used to
determine floodplain management decisions.
6. Storm Surge and Coastal Flooding
During Hurricane Fran, structures were particularly vulnerable to storm surge due to the
destruction of the sand dunes by Hurricane Bertha. For future protection, coastal storm
surge modeling studies are necessary. The results of these studies should be combined
with revised FIRM maps to encourage more stringent building codes, subdivision
ordinances, and improved land use practice.
There are a number of land use planning policies that are used to control the
' development along coastal communities. These include the Coastal Zone Management
Act (CZMA), Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA), and Coastal Barrier Resources
Act. CAMA also identifies Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) that are coastal
locales where uncontrolled development may cause irreversible damage to property,
public health, and the natural environment. AECs cover almost all coastal waters and
3% of the land area found in the 20 North Carolina counties. There are special planning
rules for development in these areas.
CAMA also decrees that each of the 20 coastal counties must develop a land use
classification plan. Municipalities within each county have the option of developing their
own land use plan as well. The county's land use plans must be updated every five years.
These plans must also include a hazard mitigation plan. Although CAMA provides a
' good template for a land use plan, this can be strengthened in two ways:
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o Require the implementation of local plans
o Require consistency between municipal zoning and subdivision ordinances and the
adopted plans.
These changes would guide development to more suitable areas and improve the
standards between CAMA and local planning.
Other Natural Disaster Mitigation Techniques Include:
- Acquisition/Relocation or Demolition
- Elevation / Flood Proofing
- Storm Drainage Improvements
- Dune Stabilization
- Formation and Implementation of Local Hazard Mitigation Plans
- Education and Training
- Purchase of Undeveloped Special Flood Hazard Area Property
CARTERET COUNTYAIVD FLAZARD MITIGATION
Hazard Mitigation Policies
Carteret County has graduated from a rural, sparsely populated region to an increasingly
urbanized region of higher population densities, with a corresponding increase in coastal
property values. The influx of pMple and the attendant residential and commercial
development, often in locations with a hiffher risk of severe storm L=a-ct, leaves
Carteret county and its municipalities r7l�rre�ared for the level ofrd kit now faces
from =etidve weather related natural hazards.
Hurricanes pose the largest disaster threat to Carteret County. Hurricanes can cause damage
in four ways: High winds, flooding, wave action, and erosion. Carteret County has hazard
mitigation policy statements in their Land Use Plan for the two variables that they are most
at risk for: flooding and wave action.
High Winds: Carteret County supports enforcement of the North Carolina State Building
Codes. The design standards on buildings are meant to withstand wind of 110 mph.
Although all areas in Carteret County are subject to wind damage, the area most at risk is the
eastern part of Carteret County. This area could have 50% inundation during a Category 3
hurricane.
Flooding. Carteret County is an active participant in the National Flood Insurance
program. Carteret County is enforcing CAMA and 404 Wetlands development permit
processes in the areas that are subject to flooding. Carteret County is also discouraging high -
density development in the areas that are prone to floods. The County encourages public
purchase of flood -risk lands with state and federal funds.
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After a hurricane has hit Carteret County, there are also policies that cover the
1 reconstruction. First, buildings that are destroyed more then 50% will have to conform to
new budding standards if and when they are rebuilt. This is mandated by the North Carolina
Building Code. Also, the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance requires that if buildings are
' improved upon, they must be floodproofed and have elevations above the 100-year
floodplain elevation.
Three Categories of Mitigation Opportunities
• Preparedness
Preparedness activities are undertaken to improve the ability to respond after the hurricane
and to reduce the damage sustained during a hurricane. Typical preparedness activities
include design and installation of warning systems and extensive training of emergency
personnel.
' Before a storm hits Carteret County, the progress of the hurricane is tracked very carefully
Emergency Operations officials using the Weather Channel and a weather Dopler
' station based in Newport. There are also 20 different weather sites available on the Internet.
An attempt to gain access to the Hurricane Center is made, but this web site is often
jammed. The Hurricane Center is currently working on their web site to provide a backdoor
with a password to town managers and emergency managers. The most important web site
is the Marine Forecast. This predicts the center of the hurricane 72 hours in advance.
Information is generated at 5am, 11am, 5pm, and 11pm. In addition, Carteret County also
has subscriptions to weather forecast products including Hurrivac and Hurritrap. Data is
entered into this program, which then models estimates and evacuation times.
Control Groups in Carteret County
Control groups are assembled for each municipality in the county. These include
' two members, one of which is the mayor. The control groups monitor hurricane
activity. Meetings are held at the command center and evacuation options are
discussed.
Evacuation
' Carteret County Emergency Management Service (EMS) is responsible for
coordinating all evacuation plans within all of its agencies and municipalities.
Carteret County does not have mandatory evacuations, although they might be
' strongly recommended. All motels/hotels/visitor facilities are encouraged to post
evacuation routes, and an evacuation route is updated annually. Copies are kept at
the County Administration Building in Beaufort for free distribution.
' 36 hours before a storm is predicted to hit landfall, control groups are assembled
from each municipality. These groups are presented with the available information
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and a decision is made on whether to recommend evacuation. If evacuation is
decided upon, it is announced on the news that all visitors and tourists should leave.
Nest, low-lying areas are evacuated. These areas are not currently delineated. Other
residents are then encouraged to leave. The current evacuation routes are HWY 101,
HWY 70, and HWY 58.
GIS Opportunity
GIS would be the ideal tool to develop the methodology and creation of evacuation
zones. An application similar to the notification application in planning could apply.
The following is a list of opportunities for utilizing GIS in preparedness:
PREPAREDNESS
• VULNERABILITY ANALYSIS
• GIS INVENTORY
1. Flooding & storm surge information (FIRM)
2. Storm drainage
3. Water & sewer infrastructure
4. Electrical transmission and distribution lines
5. Vital facilities (Police and fire stations, schools, etc)
6. Urban wildlife interfaces
7. Historic structures
8. Demographics
• BUILDING STANDARDS/CODES
• HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
• EMERGENCY SERVICE LOCATIONS AND DISTRICTS
• Response
Responding to a hurricane includes activities that occur during or immediately following a
disaster. These include search and rescue operations, emergency medical care, and shelter
programs.
The Carteret County Land Use Plan details specific steps to be followed in the aftermath of
a hurricane:
Local damage assessment teams survey storm damage within the community. For the
unincorporated areas of Carteret County, several damage assessment teams must be formed
from County agents. The Emergency Management Coordinator should also recruit and train
volunteers for damage assessment. The assessment teams will determine the number of
structures damaged, the magnitude of damage by structure type, the estimated total dollar
loss, and the estimated total dollar loss covered by insurance.
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If the damage is quite extensive, two assessments are performed. The first should consist of
only an external visual survey of damaged structures. A more detailed second assessment
can be done after the initial reports are filed.
Due to the damage and loss of landmarks, the Emergency Operations Center will need to
utilize the following information.
- Property tag maps and aerial photographs
- County maps delineating areas assigned to each assessment team.
- Copies of all county property tag records. These records should show the value
of all structures on properties within the county.
Damage information is compiled from each municipality and unincorporated area and the
data consolidated into a single county damage assessment report. The nature and extent of
damage is then reported to the appropriate state officials.
STANDARDIZATION OF SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE CALCULATIONS
In a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), substantial damage is defined by the National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP) as a repair cost of at least 50% of the fair market value. This
damage does not have to occur from flooding. When repairs are made, the structure must be
brought up to current flood ordinance standards for new construction. Due to a new mitigation
insurance rider on policies, costs associated with bringing the shwture up to code will not have
to be bome by the homeowner. A value assessment/damage estimation tool based on the
Marshall & Swift Residential Estimator Program allows repair estimates to be created from
building specifications and general descriptions. This should be incorporated into the States
early recovery efforts when requested by local building inspectors following a natural disaster.
After a hurricane, the municipalities do a damage assessment and report to Emergency
Services Director, Mike Adderton. The number of people involved with this depends on the
municipality re Emerald Isle has 20 people do the assessment, Beaufort uses 4). North
' Carolina Emergency Management requests the following information every 24 hours after a
storm. FEMA uses this to decide whom to visit first.
• Number of people homeless.
• Number of people killed.
• Number of residences damaged.
• Number of residences destroyed.
• Number of businesses damages.
• Number of businesses destroyed.
After the storm, the Health Department checks septic and well systems. Fire departments
check with Mike Adderson after a storm to let him know they are up and running.
Recove
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Recovery actions put a community back together by repairing the damage and restoring
power, water, and utilities.
North Carolina state guidelines recommend a Recovery Task Force to the community
back together after a disaster. Recommended members include the Chairman of the Board
of County Commissioners, County Manager, Emergency Management Coordinators, Chief
County Tag Appraiser, County Finance Director, County Code Inspections Director, and
County Planning Director. The responsibilities of this group will be as follows:
1. Establish an overall restoration schedule
2. Define restoration priorities
3. Determine requirements for outside assistance and arrange for such when appropriate.
4. Keep the state officials informed using Situation and Damage Report.
5. Keep the public informed.
6. Keep everything documented and filed on standard forms with the Emergency
Operation Center.
7. Proclaim a local "state of emergency" if warranted.
8. Commence with cleanup, debris removal, and utility restoration in coordination with
private utility companies.
9. Repair and restore essential public facilities with regards to pre -arranged priorities.
10. Help private businesses and property owners obtain the information they need to receive
assistance from state and federal agencies.
Ema=gy Response In The County
In Carteret County there are 23 fire districts (6 city, 17 private/non-profit), 25 fire stations, 8
police departments, 14 ambulance districts, 15 ambulance houses (one is a hospital) and 1
sheriff.
• E911
In 1993, Carteret County installed and implemented an enhanced 911system. This system
allows callers to dial 911 to access emergency services, while also providing the dispatcher
with information about the caller. This information includes name, address, and telephone
number of the caller's phone. The E-911 system will pre -route the incoming calls to the
appropriate dispatch agency.
' There are four dispatch centers within Carteret County. These are located in Morehead City
Police Department, Atlantic Beach Police Department, and Emerald Isle Police Department.
These centers receive and dispatch requests for emergency service within their own city
' limits. The fourth dispatch center is located at the Carteret County Sheriffs department.
This agency handles the rest of the municipalities and non -incorporated areas.
The dispatch centers are staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by law enforcement
personnel. The centers are equipped with E-911 receiving equipment and computer aided
dispatch systems (CAD).
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The Sheriff Dispatch Center is currently using LogiSYS for their Computer Aided Dispatch
(CAD). It is expected that this is being replaced by Visions Software. Mapping capability is
available via LogiSYS, but this is not utilized.
' In November 1997, a study of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Carteret County
identified five areas for improvement.
' 1. The inconsistent levels of service throughout the county. The citizens of Carteret
County rely on 16 separate organizations for delivery of EMS service. There is no
standard of care between these organizations. Some squads have additional training and
' equipment, others are at a lower level of care due to various problems with manpower,
avoidance of additional training and regulations, or low call volumes. Therefore, the
level of care that a citizen will receive is based on where they live instead of their medical
situation. As a solution to this, it was recommended that the standard level of care be
paramedic. The delivery of this care on a countywide basis could be accomplished with
a combination of a placement of a new paramedic responder system and existing
upgraded squads. During a call for assistance, both the existing units and the paramedic
units would simultaneously be dispatched. The appropriate unit would treat the patient.
2. The inconsistent accountability of the EMS providers. Squads are able to operate
with minimal accountability because there is no defined person that the squad reports to.
Squads therefore set their own goals and priorities. Carteret County recommended a
system be established that would increase a squad's accountability to the local
governments and Carteret General Hospital. It was also recommended that each squad
be required to submit a document outlining their goals and priorities. All of these would
be compiled into an EMS master plan document. Carteret County also recommended
that a performance -based contract be drawn up between the tax district EMS squads and
Carteret County.
3. The decline in volunteerism in the EMS system: Over the last ten years, the EMS
system has lost 35% of its volunteers. This is due to increased training requirements and
' the increased time required to maintain certifications. Also, an increase in the numbers
of paid EMS staff has absorbed volunteers into their ranks. Carteret County
recommended that a program should be established that recognized the work of EMS
' volunteers. A countywide program should also be established for attracting new EMS
volunteers.
4. The EMS education program. The current education programs are not consistent
throughout Carteret County. The Continuing Education Division of Carteret
Community College provides the current system. This system is hampered by the
logistics of providing courses to ten -twelve remote sites each month. This results in
under -qualified instructors delivering inconsistent course content with inadequate
material to EMS personnel. It was therefore recommended that the number of sites
used for education be reduced. The coordinator of the Fire/EMS training programs
should be a dedicated position for fire and EMS training only. Also, the instructors of
the EMS courses should be constantly evaluated on their performance.
I� J
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17
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5. Manpower issues. There is uneven distribution of manpower throughout Carteret
County. This is due to the decline in volunteers. A municipality can only hire as many
EMS staff as its tag base allows. Therefore, large municipalities have adequate number
of increased staff, but squads who cannot afford to hire additional staff have to rely on
' neighboring squads for assistance. The frequent trips to neighboring districts has caused
animosity between some squads and has forced many squads to redefine their abilities to
respond to other districts. Carteret County recommended that a program should be
established that recognized the work of EMS volunteers. A countywide program should
also be established for attracting new EMS volunteers.
MUNICIPALIMS, HAZ Afl MITIGAT70NAND EMERGENCYRESPONSE
' Matrix #4 illustrates the distinct lack of utilization of GIS for hazard mitigation and
emergency response. The following is a summary of general procedures and technological
uses by municipalities in Carteret County.
' • Hazard Mitigation
' When preparing for a hurricane, most municipalities utilize the software Hurrivac or
Hurritrap. These are state -designed programs used for hurricane tracking. This program
also allows city officials the opportunity to anticipate areas that will be affected by flooding.
Emerald Isle and Atlantic Beach also have damage assessment software by FEMA,
"Residential Substantial Damage Assessment Software'.
GIS software is not used for any hazard mitigation options, except by Newport. Newport
has a copy of MapInfo that they use to check Q3 flood data. Q3 flood data is digital
information that contains a subset of FIRM maps.
Once a hurricane gets close enough, control groups from each municipality meet with the
county to discuss evacuation options. One member of each control group will be the mayor
' from each municipality.
In the aftermath of a hurricane, all municipalities send out teams to assess the damage. This
information is delivered to Emergency Services Director, Mike Adderton. In turn, he sends
this information to state officials.
' Prior to a hurricane, Beaufort estimates its population by multiplying the number of active
water meters (2,450) by 2-3 people, depending on the time of year. Beaufort Police
Department also contacts the disabled people in town 2-3 times during the hurricane.
• Emm-gncy Response
' Three of the municipalities have their own dispatch centers, located in their police
departments. These are Morehead City, Atlantic Beach, and Emerald Isle. The rest of
the municipality's 911 calls are routed to the County Sheriffs dispatch center.
' 99

Morehead City, Atlantic Beach, Beaufort, Emerald Isle, Newport, Cape Carteret, and
' Pine Knoll Shores all have their own fire and EMS service. Peletier, Bogue, and Cedar
Point are all served by Cape Carteret's EMS and fire service. Indian Beach receives their
EMS and fire service from Salter Path.
Morehead City currently has two fire stations. Due to added pressure from annexations, a
third station will be constructed in the future. GIS can be used to determine the optimal
location. GIS has many other uses within the municipalities of Carteret County.
rj
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0
0
0
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H
PREPAREDNESS
• VULNERABILITY
ANALYSIS
• GIS INVENTORY
1. Flooding dt storm surge
information (FIRM)
2. Storm drainage
3. Water & sewer infrastructure
4. Electrical transmission and
distribution lines
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.
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5. Vital facilities (Police and fire
stations, schools, etc)
6. Urban wildlife interfaces
7. Historic structures
8. Demographics
• BUILDING
STANDARDS/CODES
• HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
• EMERGENCY SERVICE
LOCATIONS AND
DISTRICTS
RESPONSE
1. Evacuation
❑
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[3
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2. Shelter locations and information
(up to date)
3. Emergency medical care
4. Search and rescue
RECOVERY
1. Damage assessment inventory and
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reporting
2. Debris removal planning
D
3. Public access - dissemination of
information (Internet)
EMERGENCY
OPERATIONS
❑
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❑
❑
❑
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❑
❑
❑
❑
❑
I. Routing
2. Districting
3. Historic patterns
4. Optimal siting of facilities
S. Vegetation inventories
GIS
❑
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[]
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■
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■
■
TRAINED STAFF
GIS
SOFTWARE
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IGIS Implementation Issues: Communities in Carteret County
The main reason for the failure' of regional GIS implementations is the lack of standards
and coordination. Organizations make GIS decisions independently of one another. This
leads to incompatibilities of hardware, software, and computer networks. Incompatible data
and duplication of efforts often results. Carteret County has an opportunity to overcome
these stumbling blocks. If followed, the recommendations in this document will ensure that
each government organization in Carteret County will be able to utilize and share GIS data
and expertise.
Forrnatron ofa GIS Users Group for Carteret County
Carteret County would benefit from the formation of a GIS users group. This users group
should contain at least one representative from each organization. The larger organizations,
' such as Carteret County, should have representatives from each GIS using department. The
user group should meet once a quarter (four times a year). The meeting places should rotate
between participating organizations. A representative from the hosting organization should
' facilitate the meeting. Each meeting should address the following topics:
•
Current projects — Each organization should share the details of their GIS projects.
Maps and data should be brought to show others.
•
Upcoming projects — Upcoming projects should be discussed. Ideas on how best to
•
accomplish the projects should be shared.
Industry trends — New software releases, new hardware, networking issues should all be
discussed. This forum allows all users to stay abreast of the latest technology.
•
New databases or changes to existing databases.
•
Upcoming GIS conferences and/or training.
•
A brief technical session — allow a user to conduct a brief how-to seminar on an aspect
of GIS.
•
Organizational and staffing issues.
•
joint project initiatives.
•
New funding sources.
•
Other issues.
' A users group will provide an excellent opportunity for communication between all GIS
users in the area. This will be a good venue for users to share their successes and failures.
Duplication of efforts will be minimised and sharing of ideas and data will be optimized. A
' teamwork approach will make GIS in Carteret County a model implementation and well
ahead of other similar regions.
Levels of GIS Use
Each organization within Carteret County has different GIS needs. Carteret County needs
to have access to GIS on a daily basis to perform a variety of tasks. Other organizations
need access a few times a week or month to produce custom GIS products or view data.
Each of these levels of need requires different types of hardware, software, networking, and
1 103

staffing. GIS users in Carteret County can be grouped into one of three categories. The
categories are as follows:
Flagship GIS User
The flagship GIS user needs all of the capabilities GIS has to offer. These organizations are
heavy users of the technology. This type of user seeks to deploy GIS throughout the
organization. A full set of data entry, data editing, map making, and analysis tools are
required. The flagship user organization will deploy a combination of hardware and
software products depending on the sophistication and needs of each department. Carteret
County is considered a flagship GIS User.
Desktop GIS User
A desktop GIS user needs GIS to perform a variety of tasks from data entry to mapping.
However, many of the more sophisticated tools offered by the flagship GIS are not needed.
The cost for the desktop GIS user is significantly less than that of the flagship GIS user.
Sometimes the desktop GIS user may have an occasional GIS project that requires the full
power of a flagship GIS. It is more cost effective to outsource these projects than to
purchase the flagship products. Morehead City, Atlantic Beach, Newport, Beaufort, and
Emerald Isle qualify as desktop GIS users.
Casual GIS User/Data User
The casual GIS user or data user needs to view GIS data but does not need to create new
data sets or conduct any sophisticated GIS analysis. This is the least expensive of the three
GIS user levels. As with the desktop GIS user, if sophisticated GIS analysis is necessary, it is
more cost effective to outsource the project than to buy the hardware and software to do the
project in house. Smaller organizations such as Indian Beach, Peletier, Bogue, and Cedar
Point qualify as a casual GIS user.
These three levels of GIS use are distinct. However, there can be crossover between the
' levels. For instance, Carteret County will need to deploy the flagship, desktop, and casual
user solution within the county government. Some of their departments will need access to
the full flagship solution while others will find that the desktop solution is adequate. Also,
an organization may initially deploy the desktop or casual user solution and find that they
need to upgrade to a higher level solution as demands on the system increase.
The following sections will address specific needs as they apply to the flagship user, desktop
user, and the casual user. These should be used as a guide for implementing GIS in each
organization or department. Further specific recommendations relating to organizations are
' discussed in Chapter 4 of this document.
' 104

11
rl
Hardware
Flagship GIS User
The flagship GIS User should acquire a powerful personal computer to run the GIS
software. This personal computer should utilize the Windows NT operating system from
Microsoft. Only a high -end personal computer can run the current generation of GIS
software at an acceptable speed. Even a high -end personal computer can yield poor
performance if not configured correctly. Careful attention should be paid to random access
memory (RANI), processor speed, and video RAM. Each of these will determine the speed
of your flagship GIS. GIS data inherently requires a great deal of disk space. Therefore,
ample disk space should be acquired to store GIS data.
Preferred Personal Computer Configuration for Flagship GIS User
Processor
Memory
Hard Drive
Monitor
Video
CD-ROM Drive
Sound
Speakers
NIC
Storage
Operating System
333 MHz Pentium II Processor with MMX Technology
128MB SDRAM
8.4 GB Ultra ATA (9.5ms)
1600HS 21" Trinitron
8MB 3D Video Card
32 Max Variable Speed
Integrated Sound Card
Altec Lansing ACS-295 or Comparable
3 Com 3C905 Fast Etherlink XL 10/100 PCI Card
Iomega ZIP 100MB Internal Drive
Windows NT
Cost of This Confguradon
$3,500 $3,700
Dell* Gateway 2000*
1-888-616-3355 1-800-846-2000
www.dell.com www.gw2k.com
*Dell and Gateway are suggested vendors. However, another personal computer
manufacturer can be used if preferred.
Desktop GIS User
The desktop GIS User should acquire a powerful personal computer to run the GIS
software. This personal computer should utilize the Windows 3.1, Windows NT or
Windows 95 operating system from Microsoft The desktop GIS user can be stand-alone or
on a network. The personal computer should have access to the Internet. This can be
accomplished on a local area network or through a modem.
1 105

1
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U
11
Preferred Personal Computer Configuration for Desktop GIS User
Processor
Memory
Hard Drive
Monitor
Video
CD-ROM Drive
Sound
Speakers
NIC
Storage
Operating System
333 MHz Pentium II Processor with MMX Technology
64MB SDRAM
6.4 GB Ultra ATA (9.5ms)
1200HS 19"
8MB 3D Video Card
32 Max Variable Speed
Optional
Optional
If on a network
Iomega ZIP 100MB Internal Drive
Windows 95 or Windows NT
Cost of This Configuration
$2,600
Dell*
1-888-616-3356
www.dell.com
$2,700
Gateway 2000*
1-800-846-2000
www.gw2k.co
*Dell and Gateway are suggested vendors. However, if another personal computer
manufacturer can be used if preferred.
Minimal Personal Computer Configuration for Desktop GIS User**
Processor
Memory
Hard Drive
Monitor
Video
CD-ROM Drive
Sound
Speakers
NIC
Storage
Operating System
233 MHz Pentium II Processor with MMX Technology
64MB SDI AM
4.3 GB Ultra ATA (9.5ms}
800HS 15"
4MB 3D Video Card
32 Max Variable Speed
Optional
Optional
If on a network
Iomega ZIP 100MB Internal Drive
Windows 3.1, Windows 95 or Windows NT
Cost of This Configuration
$1,700
Dell*
1-888-616-3357
www.dell.com
$1,700
Gateway 2000*
1-800-846-2000
www.gw2k-.com
1 106

*Dell and Gateway are suggested vendors. However, if another personal computer
manufacturer can be used if preferred.
**GIS software can run on a lesser PC but a significant performance decrease will occur.
Casual GIS User
The casual GIS User should acquire a powerful personal computer to run the GIS software.
This personal computer should utilize the Windows NT or Windows 95 operating system
from Microsoft, The desktop GIS user can be stand-alone or on a network. The personal
computer should have access to the Internet. This can be accomplished on a local area
network or through a modem.
Preferred Personal Computer Confgumtion for Casual GIS User
Processor
Memory
Hard Drive
Monitor
Video
CD-ROM Drive
Sound
Speakers
NIC
Storage
�1
7
'J
Operating System
333 MHz Pentium II Processor with MMX Technology
600 SDRAM
6.4 GB Ultra ATA (9.5ms)
1200HS 19"
8MB 3D Video Card
32 Max Variable Speed
Optional
Optional
If on a network
Iomega ZIP 100MB Internal Drive
Windows 95 or Windows NT
Cost of This Configuration
$2,600
Dell*
1-888-616-3358
www.dell.com
$2,700
Gateway 2000*
1-800-846-2000
www.gw2k.com
*Dell and Gateway are suggested vendors. However, if another personal computer
manufacturer can be used if preferred.
M.:nimal Personal Computer Configuration for Casual GIS User**
Processor
233 MHz Pentium II Processor with MMX Technology
Memory
64N B SDRAM
Hard Drive
4.3 GB Ultra ATA (9.5ms)
Monitor
800HS 15"
Video
4MB 3D Video Card
CD-ROM Drive
32 Max Variable Speed
Sound
Optional
Speakers
Optional
IVIC
If on a network
Storage
Iomega ZIP 100MB Internal Drive
1 107

IOperating System Windows 95 or Windows NT
Cost of This Configuration
$1,700 $1,700
Dell* Gateway 2000*
1-888-616-3359 1-800-846-2000
www.dell.com www.gw2k.com
1 *Dell and Gateway are suggested vendors. However, if another personal computer
manufacturer can be used if preferred.
**GIS software can run on a lesser PC but a significant performance decrease will occur.
GIS Software
The software recommended for Carteret County is from the ESRI software suite. ESRI has
been the leader in GIS since the inception of commercial GIS software. Standardizing
around ESRI software makes sense for Carteret County. It provides all organizations ease in
data sharing, a common software product for sharing of expertise, the most robust software
available, ease of integration with existing GIS data, and access to a large user community.
The software recommended for Carteret County will facilitate three specific users: The
advanced GIS expert (flagship GIS), the desktop query and browse user (desktop GIS), and
the non -technical, application specific users (casual GIS/data user).
Flagship GIS User
Arc/Info: The flagship GIS product from ESRI is Arc/Info. Arc/Info integrates graphic or
"spatial" data in the form of maps with descriptive or attribute information from an
organization's internal databases. Arc/Info does a variety of tasks including but not limited
to: Data automation and integration, open data management, spatial analysis, advance
cartographic productions, open development environment/object oriented programming,
and scalability. Arc/Info is infinitely more powerful then desktop mapping with its ability to
enable organizations to distribute access across the enterprise, incorporate relational database
technologies, implement multi-user systems, perform transaction management, and use
higher -level modeling tools that help people transform data into meaningful information.
Desktop GIS User
AtcView. The desktop GIS product from ESRI is ArcView. There are currently more then
100,000 copies of ArcView worldwide, making ArcView the most popular desktop GIS and
mapping software. ArcView helps you create, visualize, analyze, and present information
better and more clearly. It allows you to work with maps, database tables, and business
charts all in a single view. The most appealing part of ArcView is its user-friendly
capabilities. ArcView makes it simple to create relevant and impressive information and
products in a matter of minutes. ArcView moves the power of GIS to the desktop of the
average user, throughout the enterprise, and out to citizens through Intranet and Internet
applications.
1 108

Casual GIS User
MapObjects. The casual GIS user does not need the power afforded by Arc/Info or
ArcView. They need a user-friendly, simple GIS interface customized for their needs.
MapObjects allows this type of interface to be created. This package contains over thirty
programmable automation objects that let application developers add dynamic mapping and
GIS capabilities to applications. This package is also an avenue to web based mapping.
MapObjects can be used with many programming environments, including Visual Basic,
Delphi, Visual C++, and many others.
Networks
Computers were originally designed to perform one task for one user and to store all the
information needed internally or on tape. As computing expanded, the need for centralized
computing surfaced. Centralized computing allowed many users access to the same large
mainframe type computer.
Centralized Computing Environment
Terminal
Terminal
Terminal
All users utilized the processor of the centralized computer. Centralized computing is still
commonplace and viable for many computing tasks. GIS technology demands a different
type of networking scheme. Data needed to be stored on multiple computers all accessible
through a common network. This type of computing environment is called distributed
computing or client/server computing.
109

Flagship users need access to a digitizer to input data. A digitizer allows a user to input
existing paper maps into the computer by electronically tracing features on the map.
Recommended Digitizer
Item Cost
Calcomp Drawingboard III 36" x 48" $1,855
Large Format Table with 16 Button Corded or
Cordless Cursor.
A plotter is used for printing out high quality maps of various sizes. All flagship users need
access to a plotter.
Recommended Plotter
Item Cost
HP DesignJet 755CM A-E Size Color $8,995
Inkjet Plotter, with 72 MB of memory,
ArcPress, Postscript
LowEnd Printer
Every GIS user should have access to a low-md color printer. This is an inexpensive way of
producing small format quality maps.
Optional Low End Printers
Item Cost
Epson Stylus Color 600 4ppm color $249
Epson Stylus Color 1520 5ppm color $799

1 17,, x =»
High End Printer
If an organization or department needs high speed, high volume, and/or high quality color
printing then a low -end color printer will not suffice.
Recommended High End Printer
Item Cost
Lexmark Color 960 Printer $4,900
20 pages per minute color, postscript
32 MB RAM
storage Devices
One of the most essential peripherals is a good backup device. All computers are prone to
failure and data loss. Having good backup of data is essential. Also, storage devices are
essential for data sharing.
j� Recommended Backup and Data Sharing Device
Item Cost
Philips Omm'Writer External CD-RW $529
Item# DR6625
This device lets you write to the same CD over and over. It comes with drivers for
Windows 3.1, Windows 95, and Windows NT. Also, you have the option of ordering a
parallel or SCSI device.
Item Cost
Iomega ZIP Drive 100 MB $135
Suggested for all organizations in Carteret
County for data sharing
Desktop GIS User
The desktop GIS User needs access to a reliable printer and a ZIP drive. A plotter may be
necessary for some desktop GIS users.

' Plotter
A plotter is used for printing out high quality maps of various sizes. All flagship users need
access to a plotter.
Recommended Plotter
Item Cost
HP DesignJet 755CM A-E Size Color $8,995
Inkjet Plotter, with 72 MB of memory,
ArcPress, Postscript
LowEnd Printer
Eve GIS user should have access to a low -end color printer. This is an inexpensive way of
Every p � y
producing small format quality maps.
l Optional Low End Printers
Item Cost
Epson Stylus Color 600 4ppm color $249
Epson Stylus Color 1520 5ppm color $799
17" z 22"
High End Printer
If an organization or department needs high speed, high volume, and/or high quality color
printing then a low -end color printer will not suffice.
Recommended High End Printer
' Item Cost
Leamark Color 960 Printer $4,900
20 pages per minute color, postscript
32 MB RAM
Storage Devices

Item Cost
Iomega ZIP Drive 100 MB $135
Suggested for all organizations in Carteret
County for data sharing
ICasual GIS User
The casual GIS user should only need access to a low -end printer and a ZIP drive.
LowEnd Printer
Every GIS user should have access to a low -end color printer. This is an inexpensive way of
producing small format quality maps.
Optional Low End Printers
Item Cost
Epson Stylus Color 600 4ppm color $249
Epson Stylus Color 1520 5ppm color $799
17" x 22"
Storage Devices
Item Cost
Iomega ZIP Drive 100 MB $135
Suggested for all organizations in Carteret
County for data sharing
Trau:ing
Trained staff are essential for a successful GIS. Each user should be given software training.
The local GIS users group recommended earlier in this chapter, statewide user groups, and
national user group meetings are good ways of keeping abreast of changes in the technology.
Magsbip GIS User
Flagship organizations need to have training in Arc/Info, ArcView, and any customized
MapObjects Applications that are written.
Arc/lnfo Training
Training on the flagship GIS product Arc/Info can be attained from a few sources. The
course is requires a week and goes into detail about all aspects of Arc/Info.
Provider Cost per person Location
ESRI $1,500 Charlotte
GTG $1,000 Goldsboro
1 114

I
ArcView Training
The ArcView Course is a two-day in-depth look at ArcView desktop software. This course
will be provided by GTG as a part of this study.
Provider Cost pet Person
Location
ESRI $600
Charlotte
GTG $500
Goldsboro
1
MapObjects Custom Software
Training on custom software should be provided with the
software. Many of these
applications are self-explanatory and do not require training.
Desktop GIS User
Desktop GIS users will need training in ArcView and customized MapObjects applications.
ArcWew Training
The ArcView Course is a two-day in-depth look at ArcView desktop software. This course
will be provided by GTG as a part of this study.
Provider Cost pet person
Location
ESRI $600
Charlotte
GTG $500
Goldsboro
MapObjects Custom Software
Training on custom software should be provided with the
software. Many of these
applications are self-explanatory and do not require training.
Casual GIS User
MapObjects Custom SoRwam
Training on custom software should be provided with the software. Many of these
applications are self-explanatory and do not require training.
I
1 115

I Recommended GIS Strategies
Implementation P �es
We have all heard, "A failure to plan is a plan to fail." This was never truer than with the
implementation of GIS. All successful GIS implementations utilize an implementation plan.
However, most communities utilizing GIS have no plan. Without an implementation plan, a
GIS program is like a rudderless ship, adrift going nowhere. An implementation plan will
serve as the rudder of the ship. All organizations in Carteret County should utilize this
document as their master plan. Following this plan will assure compatibility with other
organizations in Carteret County.
Carteret County — Recommended GIS Configuration
Tau Administration (Flagship GIS User)
Carteret County Tax Administration encompasses tax administration, mapping, and GIS.
eThis is the most important department to the overall success of GIS in Carteret County.
�1 They act as the data clearinghouse for the county. Also, they maintain the cadastral (tax
parcel) layer. This layer serves as the basis for all other GIS layers. It must be kept up-to-
date, linked to the tax appraisal data, and distributed to all other organizations in the county.
The current hardware configuration is comprised of Digital Equipment Computers utilizing
VMS as the operating system. Various output devices, input devices, and networks are
Carteret County GIS Layout
weambtanc Pioner PC Running PathWorks HP InMet Plotter
116

utilized.
It is highly recommended that the VMS based computers be replaced with Windows NT
based computers. Carteret County has utilized Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) for
most of its hardware needs. DEC sells a version of Windows NT that runs on its
workstations. However, many reports note compatibility problems with this version of NT.
Some hardware and software is not compatible with the DEC Windows NT
implementation. Therefore, the county should utilize the standard Microsoft version of
Windows NT workstation and Windows NT server operating systems.
A high -end PC should be purchased with Windows NT server software. This PC will act as
the central clearinghouse for data in tag administration and will allow optimal management
of the NT network. Each VMS based machine should be replaced with a PC running
Windows NT workstation.
PathWorks networking software is needed to transfer data in the current hardware
configuration. As the upgrade to Windows NT progresses PathWorks should be jettisoned.
A network consisting of 10/100 baseT cabling, hubs, and switches should serve as the
county's backbone. Windows NT will serve as the networking operating system and
Carteret County Reccommended GIS Layout
11 NT GIS Workstation
[MMMMLTAV
NT GIS Workstation
Elec Static Plotter
I
Digitizer /44T GIS Workstation Digitizer
Wrxkwa NT Server
NT GIS Workstation --M Digitizer
HP Ink let Plotter
I
117

TCP/IP can be utilized to communicate with the internet.
The digitizers currently utilized will work fine in the Windows NT environment. Also, the
electrostatic and inkjet plotters should work fine with the GIS software and NT.
The GIS office will share data with everyone. Therefore, various backup strategies should
be utilized. A read/write CD-ROM and an IOMEGA ZIP drive should be purchased
immediately to distnbute data.
Device Description:
Philips Omnii Vriter External CD-RW
Cost $529.00 from MicroWarehouse at 1-800-367-7080
This device lets you write to the same CD over and over. It comes with drivers for
Windows 3.1, Windows 95, and WindowsNT. Also, you have the option of ordering a
parallel or SCSI device. It can be purchased from office supply stores or by mail order.
Device Description
Iomega Zip Drive 100MB SCSI
Cost $139.95 from PC Connection at 1-800-800-5555
' This device is recommended as the standard for data transfer throughout the county. All
participating organizations should purchase a ZIP drive for their personal computer.
F
1
11
I
Carteret County Data Sharing
Iomega ZIP \ Windows NT Personal Computer
Drive
Other Organizations
o O o
Phillips
Read/Write CD
118

Other Recommendations
The following is a list of GIS related issues that should be addressed over the nest few years:
• Internet GIS — The County should purchase an internet server and begin serving their
wealth of GIS data over the intcmct. MapObjects IMS from ESRI with custom
programming from a consultant is recommended.
• ArcView — More copies of ArcView should be purchased and utilized by staff in the tax
office.
• Tax Attributes — all of the tax appraisal data should be downloaded from the Bormouth
system and tied to the GIS tax parcel layer.
• New Tax System — a study should be conducted as to the feasibility of acquiring new tax
appraisal software. If feasible, then a rigorous selection process should ensue.
• Tax Counter Public Access — A MapObjects GIS application should be made available
for citizens at the tax counter. This easy to use interface would allow users to find a
piece of property of interest and print out a map.
• High -End Color Printer — a high speed color printer should be purchased to serve the
entire department. This printer would be networked and would serve everyone.
�! Recommended High End Printer
Item Cost
Lexmark Color 960 Printer $4,900
20 pages per minute color, postscript
32 MB RAM
Emergency Management (Desktop GIS User)
Emergency Management's main need is access to GIS data. They have a copy of MapInfo
GIS software that is being replaced with ArcView. A ZIP drive should be purchased to
share data with other agencies in Carteret County. The purchase of a new Computer Aided
Dispatch system is being explored. This system will utilize a network of Windows NT based
PCs and SQL server software. This configuration works well with GIS.
Other Recommendations
• A second copy of ArcView should be purchased for use in Emergency Management
• A high -end color printer should be purchased to serve the entire department.
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Recommended High End Printer
Item Cost
Legmark Color 960 Printer $4,900
20 pages per minute color, postscript
32 MB RAM
• A fiber optic direct link to the tag administration office should be installed. This will
make data sharing and data update easy and immediate.
• A GIS floodway management program should be utilized.
• A GIS based routing and address location identifier program should be utilized.
Emergency Services Recommended Computer Layout
Lexmark
Iomega
ZIP
Drive
Planning (Desktop GIS User)
The Planning Department of Carteret County has identified many desired uses of GIS. First
and foremost the Planning Department needs easy access to GIS data. Personal Computers
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utilizing Windows95 as the operating system should be deployed throughout Planning. Each
PC should be a part of the overall County Network. Data should be accessed directly from
the GIS computers in the tag office.
Other Recommendations
• Each Windows 95 PC should have a ZIP Drive.
• ArcView3 should reside on each new PC.
• Zoning changes should be done on GIS.
• GIS should be utilized for floodway management.
• Funds should be sought for improving the accuracy of floodway maps.
• A high -end color printer should be acquired to serve the entire department as new PCs
become networked.
Recommended High End Printer
Item Cost
Legmark Color 960 Printer $4,900
20 pages per minute color, postscript
32 MB RAM
• A generic data browser program should be purchased for the Western Office and for
quick viewing of data.
• A copy of the tag counter MapObjects application should be purchased.
• A GIS based budding permit program should be created as GIS layers are bunt.
121

Planning Recommended Computer Layout
CD Drive
CD Drive
endows 95 PC rdows 95 PC
Iomega
Iomega
ZIP
ZIP
Drive
Dave
....
CD Drive
CD Drive
Iomega
High -End Color
ZIP
Printer
Drive
1
Iomega
Le)cnark
ZIP
Drive
1
Tax
GIS
i
iOverall Recommended GIS Configuration for Carteret County
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Carteret County Overall Connectivity
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Communities
Morehead City (Desktop GIS User)
Morehead City has been using MapInfo for GIS projects over the past few years. They have
a strong desire to expand GIS functionality. Their biggest need is an up-to-date tax GIS
layer and access to other GIS layers. MapInfo has been replaced by ArcView in the Planning
Department. ArcView running on a Windows 95 personal computer is the optimal GIS
solution for Morehead City. A Zip Drive should be acquired for data sharing. They
currently have an HP color plotter for producing maps.
Morehead City Recommended Computer Layout
lomega Planning Department
ZIP
Drive
Fire- Department
Low -End
Color
Printer
F
PC With ArcView
Other Recommendations
• Another copy of ArcView should be purchased for Planning and the Fire Department
• All tax department attributes be acquired
• A generic data browser MapObjects application be loaded on all laptops for Fire
Department field inspectors
CD Drive
lomega
ZIP
Drive
lomega
ZIP
Drive
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• Map books should be created utilizing ArcView for the Fire Department
• A GIS based floodway management application be acquired
Beaufort (Desktop GIS User)
Beaufort should purchase of copy of ArcView. ArcView should be run on a Windows95
personal computer. A Zip drive should be utilized for data sharing. Data from Carteret
County should be acquired
Beaufort Recommended Computer Layout
a
CD Drive
PC With Arcviiew
Iomega
ZIP Drive
Low End
Color Printer
Other Recommendations
• A copy of the flood plain application should be utilized
• New layers such as, storm water and water should be created.
• A low end printer should be acquired (See Previous Chapter)
Newport (Desktop GIS User)
Data Received
from Carteret
County
' Newport has acquired a copy of ArcView to replace Mapinfo. Newport should receive data
from Carteret County on a monthly basis. Newport should create layers of all their
infrastructure.
Other Recommendations
• A low end color printer should be acquired
• A floodway management application should be utilized
• A ZIP Drive should be acquired
1
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Newport Recommended Computer Layout
a0-
CD Drive
PC With Arcview
Iomega
ZIP Drive
Low End
Color Printer
Data Received
from Carteret
County
Emerald Isle (Desktop GIS User)
Emerald Isle should acquire a copy of ArcView immediately. Emerald Isle should receive
data from Carteret County on a monthly basis. New layers showing infrastructure should be
created.
Emerald Isle Recommended Computer Layout
e-0-
CD Drive
PC With Arcview
Iomega
ZIP Drive
Low End
Color Printer
Other Reoommendatlons
• A low end color printer should be acquired
Data Received
from Carteret
County
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• A floodway management application should be utilized
• A ZIP Drive should be acquired
Atlantic Beach (Deskrop GIS User)
Atlantic Beach should acquire a free upgrade copy of ArcView to replace MapInfo. Atlantic
Beach should receive data from Carteret County on a monthly basis. Atlantic Beach has
identified many new layers of GIS data that are needed.
Other Recommendations
• A low end color printer should be acquired
• A floodway management application should be utilized
• A ZIP Drive should be acquired
• GIS should be used for land use planning
• GIS should be used for tracking fire history
• GIS should be used for tracking fire hydrant inspections
Atlantic Beach Recommended Computer Layout
CD Drive
Iomega
ZIP
Drive
Town Hall Fire Department �. O
0
PC WitH ArdView
PC with ArdView
Low -End
Low -End
Color
Color
Printer
Printer
CD Drive
Iomega
ZIP
Drive
Pine Anoll Shores, Cape Carteret, Cedar Point, Bogue, Peletier, Indian Beach
(Casual GIS User)
Each of the smaller communities in Carteret County can gain benefit from GIS. A
Windows95 based personal computer should be utilized to run a generic data browser
MapObjects GIS application. The cost of this application is $500. This would allow users
to view, print, and query data layers for their communities.
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Pine Knoll Shores, Cape Carteret, Cedar Point,
Bogue, Peletier, and Indian Beach Recommended
Computer Layout
000
Data Received
CD Drive from Carteret
County
PC With Generic
Iomega Data Browser
ZIP Drive
Low End
Color Printer
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DATA AND DATABASES
i� INTRODUCTION
This document is accompanied by a CD-ROM. This CD-ROM contains 54 ArcView themes. A
theme is a collection of geographic objects defined by the user. These objects are organized logically
into groups of layers or theme.. Some examples include streets, tax parcels, rivers, fire hydrants. These
' are files that contain both graphical (map) and related attribute (database) information.
All of the files on this CD are related to in some aspect to Carteret County. For example, some of
the themes contain subjects as diverse as tax parcels, FEMA flood data, street centerlines,
' hydrography, mobile homes, and zoning. Some of these themes contain information for the entire
county, while others contain information on individual municipalities.
' This document is divided into six sections. In addition to this introduction, the document contains:
• A list of recommended projects that can be created with the themes on the CD-ROM.
1 • Instructions for creating a project in ArcView.
• A data dictionary that lists all of the data available on the CD-ROM and specific
information about each theme.
• Attribute table for Carteret County themes
• Attribute definitions for the Demographic theme referred to as `Demog'
Before you continue with this document, please read the following tips:
1. Each of the theme folders on the CD-ROM contains three files. These files end with .shp, .shx,
and .dbf. If you wish to take these files out of the folder and transfer them to another type of
media (Le. hard drive), you must ensure that all three files are moved together. ArcView
cannot read a theme if one of these files is missing.
2. Countyrd83 (Street Centerlines) has special copying parameters. When copying Countyrd83, the
entire folder must be copied instead of individual files. If files are copied separately from this
folder, the files may be destroyed.
3. Some of these folders contain a text (txt) file. These files contain the metadata for the theme it
is grouped with Metadata contains information on all aspects of the coverage. For instance, it
might give information on source, source date, completion date, scale, attributes, projection, and
datum This documentation is very valuable and could contain answers to many of your
questions about the theme.
4. All of the themes on the CD-ROM are in a certain format:
• ArcView shape8ks *
• North Carolina State Plane projection
• Datum NAD83
*Tbe ont aarption to tbu is Cwm)n wd (Street Annotation), bard in the Ce=6ff&3 fo1&r: This u w
An/Info fm=t Hmmw, this can he trod byAwView.
If you obtain new themes from another source, you should ensure they are in ArcView, DXF, or
Arc/Info format This is essential if you wish to view your new themes with the ones available
on the CD -RODE
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RECOMMENDED PROJECTS
INTRODUCTION
A number of useful projects can be developed using the themes (maps and related attribute
information) available on your CD-ROM. As an introduction to project development, we
are recommending five projects that group relevant themes for each subject. For instance,
the Hazard Mitigation project will allow the user to view FEMA flood data, hazardous
' substance disposal sites, and hurricane storm surge inundation areas. Developing one of
these projects in ArcView is very simple. Instructions will follow in the next section.
' PROfECTSAND RELATED THEMES
*NOTE: In the folkwingpmjects, then' are two themes locakd in the Coun8rrl83 folder. Countynishp
(Street interline file) and Countymad (Street annotation fik). See `notes' in the Data Dictionary for further
instruction.
'
1. HAZARD MITIGATION AND FLOODING
• City83
• Basdcm
* Rescue83
• Cntybound
P Demog
• Rrt100
• Countyrd83
• Fire83
• Sheriff83
• Countyroad (In
• Floodg3
a TaxParcels
Countyrd83
• Hsds
• Twsp83
folder)
• Hss87
• Corebanks83
• Mobile83
2. LAND USE PLANNING
*
Carteret lc
•
. Emerald83
• Zoneatbch83
•
City83
•
Floodg3
• Zonebft83
'
•
Cntybound
•
Gwrd
• Zonecapec83
•
Cntyshore
•
Hsds
• Zonemorecity
•
Corebanks
•
Hgorwdwq
• Zonenewp83
'
•
Countyrd83
•
Hss87
• Zonepks
•
Countyroad (In
•
Hydromaj
• Zoning83
Countyrd83
•
Mobile83
folder)
•
TaxParcels
9
Demog
•
Twsp83
3. ENVIRONMENTAL
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• Carteret lc
• Carteret nwi
• City83
• Cntybound
• Cntyshore
• Corebanks83
• Gwrd
• Hgorwdwq
• Hydromaj
• Twsp83
4. TAX PARCEL MAPPING AND DEMOGRAPHICS
• City83 • Countyroad (In • Demog
• Cntybound Countyrd83 • TaxParcels
• Cntyshore folder) • Twsp83
• Countyrd83 • Corebanks83
4. EMERGENCY SERVICES DISPATCH
• Atbeachpt283
• Atlanticpt283
• Bftpt183
• Bftpt283
• Bftpt383
• Cedaript283
• City83
• Cntybound
• Cntyshore
• Countyrd83
• Countyroad (In
Countyrd83
folder)
• Corebanks83
• Sheriff83
• Davispt283
• Smymapt283
• Emislept283
• Stacypt283
• Fire83
• Stellapt283
• Gloucpt283
• Swansbpt283
• Harkpt283
• TaazParcels
• Marshbgpt283
• Twsp83
• Moreheadpt283
• Willpt283
• Newportpt283
• Rescue83
• Salterppt283
• Sealpt283
INSTRUCTIONS FOR PROfECTDEYELOPAMW
Projects
A project is a file that organizes all of your information in ArcView. Projects use five types
of components. These are views, tables, charts, layouts, and scripts. For the recommended
projects described in this document, only views and tables will be utilized. These two
components wii1l allow you to view all of your data in graphical and tabular format. The
following steps will guide you through the development of a project
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1. To start a new project, start ArcView and select "New Project" from the file menu.
2. Double click on the "Views' button, located on the left side of ArcView in the Project
:.:
An empty View window should appear.
3. ArcView is now ready to assemble your themes. It is important to remember that your
saved project will always look for your themes in the original access location. So, if these
themes are pulled directly off of the CD, then when you open your project in the future,
the CD must always be in your CD Drive. Or, if you copy the themes to the hard drive,
they must not be erased. Otherwise, the project file will search for them in vain.
4. To add a theme, click the `Add Theme' button on the top button bar (underneath the
menu selections).
9
5. This button will bring up an "Add Theme" window. Navigate to the desired directory
using the inner box on the right. Select the corresponding theme that appears in the
inner left box and click OK. This will put the theme into the View window. Repeat this
step for every theme that you desire in your project.
6. To view a theme, click on the small box immediately to the left of the theme name. This
will cause a check mark and the theme to appear. To remove the theme from the view
click on the check mark again.
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7. Once all of the desired themes are in your view window, you are ready to save your
project. In the `File' menu, select `Save Project'. Enter the requested information.
Saving a project essentially takes a snapshot of all the work you have done in ArcView.
If you were to end the ArcView session now, you could reload the project and be exactly
where you had been before. When you start ArcView, you load a project by selecting
`Open Project' from the file menu.
Manipulating Themes
1. Themes appear on top of each other within your View window. Imagine maps on
transparencies. You can change the order of these themes and subsequently the order in
which they draw. The themes closer to the top will appear above the lower themes. To
change this order, click and drag the theme in question to the desired location.
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2. To change the color of a layer, double click on the theme name. This will cause the
`Legend Editor' to appear.
• Double click on the `Symbol' box (the square with the color). This will show a `Fill
Palette window.
• If you click on the paintbrush icon, this will give you a choice of colors. Click on the
color that is desired, and then click `Apply' in the Legend Editor window. The Fill
Palette window gives you a wide variety of selections and choices. Experiment with
the options to become familiar with this window.
3. , To zoom in, zoom out, or pan within the View window, use the following buttons
(located in the second row of buttons underneath the menu selections).
O
' 4. Individual themes can be drawn to show different types of information in different
colors. For instance, a Zoning theme could be classified to show a different color for
each zoning attribute. Red could designate R1S, green could designate CH, yellow could
designate IU. To accomplish a similar classification, access the `Legend Editor'
previously described.
• Click on the arrow neat to the `Legend Type'. This will give you a menu of choices.
Select `Unique Value'.
• Click on the arrow nest to `Values Field'. This will give you a menu from which you
can make a selection of what you would like to map. For instance, in the `FloodQ3'
134

theme, you can select the value field `Zone'. This will then show a different color for
every flood zone within the theme. This could be very useful to view with the tag
parcel theme. This would show what flood zone a particular parcel is located in.
Viewing Attribute Information
All of the themes that are opened in ArcView have related attribute information. This data
can be viewed in two ways.
1. Decide which theme you would like to learn more about. Make that theme active. This
is done by clicking once on the theme name. This will make that theme appear raised on
a bog above the other themes. For instance, see how the theme Sheriff83 appears raised
above the other two themes within View3 below.
2. Once the theme is active, click on the `Open Theme Table' button. This will provide an
attribute table for the active theme.
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3. A second way of finding out attribute information on the theme is to use the `Identify'
button.
4. First make the theme active. Then select the `Identify' button. Put your mouse over an
area of the map you wish to know more about and click once. A boa will appear with all
the attribute information available for that area. For instance, the theme Basdcm below
represents Beach Access Sites (Division of Coastal Management). When one of these
points was clicked on, the following attribute information appeared.
Pqrr?I
P
C EM-IM
a
K
If at any point you need more instruction on any of these steps, you can access the `Help' file
in ArcView. Select `Help Topics' from the `Help' menu to select a subject.
The steps that are listed here just cover the basics of ArcView. Further instruction in viewing
and analysis will follow next month.
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DATA DICTIONARY
Atbeachpt283
Atlantic Beach E911
813 KB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
addresses
Atlanticpt283
Atlantic E911
258 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Basdcm
Division of Coastal
44.9 KB
**
North Carolina
Point
Management —
Center for
Location of beach
Geographic
access sites
Information and
Analysis
Bftptl83
South River area of
369 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
Beaufort E911
addresses
Bftpt283
Downeast area of
520 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
Beaufort E911
addresses
Bftpt383
Remainder of
1.45 MB
**
Carteret County
Point
Beaufort E911
addresses
Carteretnwi
National Wetlands
13.6 MB
1:24,000
North Carolina
Polygon
Inventory (NWI)
Center for
Geographic
Information and
Analysis
Cartindex83
Grid system for tax
147 KB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
mapping
Cedaript283
Cedar Island E911
119 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
6583
City limits
1.41 MB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
Cntybound
County boundary
56.6 KB
1:100,000
North Carolina
Polygon
-Center for
Geographic
Information and
Analysis
Cntyshore
County boundary
539 KB
1:100,000
North Carolina
Polygon
with shoreline
Center for
Geographic
Information and
Analysis
Corebanks83
Core Banks property
622 KB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
lines
County83
County boundary
195 KB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
with extension into
water
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Countyrd83
County street
12.1 MB
**
Carteret County
Line and
To select the street
centerlines and street
Annotation
centerlines, select
yes.
Countyrd83.shp. To
select the annotation,
click on the square to the
left of Countyroad. This
will then list arc and
annotation. Select
annotation for the road
names.
When Countyrd83 is
referenced in the
recommended projects,
select both the
Countyrd83.shp and
Countyroad annotation
themes.
Davispt283
Davis E911 addresses
131 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
Demog
Demographic
205 KB
**
National
Polygon
Refer to page 15
information for block
Decision
(Attributes for the theme
groups
Systems, Inc.
`Demog') for field
name definitions.
Emerald83
Emerald Isle zoning
465 KB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
codes
Emislept283
Emerald Isle E911
1.43 MB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Fire83
Fire district lines
4.88 MB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
F1oodQ3
Q3 Flood Data
8.13 MB
1:24,000
Federal
Polygon
(FEMA)
Emergency
Management
Agency
Gloucpt283
Gloucester E911
132 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Gwrd
Groundwater
233 KB
1:100,000
North Carolina
Polygon
rechargeldischarge
Center for
Geographic
Information and
Analysis
Harkpt283
Harkers Island E911
576 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Hqorwdwq
High Quality and
143 KB
1:24,000
North Carolina
Polygon
Outstanding
Center for
Resource
Geographic
Management Zones,
Information and
Division of Water
Analysis
Quality
Hsds
Hazardous substance
27.9 KB
1:24,000
North Carolina
Polygon
disposal sites
Center for
Geographic
Information and
Analysis
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Hss87
Hurricane storm
809 KB
1:126,720
North Carolina
Polygon
In the `Surge' field, a
surge inundation
Center for
code of `1' refers to a
areas (1987)
Geographic
hurricane category 1 or
Information and
2, a `2' refers to a
Analysis
hurricane category 3, and
a `3' refers to a hurricane
category 4 or 5.
Hydromaj
Hydrography —major
516 KB
1:100,000
North Carolina
Polygon
Center for
Geographic
Information and
Analysis
Landcover
Land Cover —1996
15.9 MB
**
North Carolina
Polygon
Center for
Geographic
Information and
Analysis
Marshbgpt283
Marshallberg E911
177 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Mobile83
Carteret County
430 KB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
mobile home parks
Moreheadpt283
Morehead City E911
1.43 MB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Ncboundsl
All of North Carolina
5.0 MB
**
North Carolina
Polygon
counties with
Center for
shorelines
Geographic
Information and
Analysis
Newportpt283
Newport E911
3.09 MB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Rescue83
Rescue districts
3.20 MB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
Rrt100
Transportation —
21.7 KB
1:100,000
North Carolina
Line
Railroads
Center for
Geographic
Information and
Analysis
Salterppt283
Salter Path E911
93.2 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Sealpt283
Seal Level E911
114 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Sherifl83
Sheriff districts
1.65 MB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
Smyrnapt283
Smyrna E911
101 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Stacypt283
Stacy E911 addresses
77.5 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
Stellapt283
Stella E911 addresses
154 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
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Swansbpt283
Swansboro E911
947 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Swf
Solid waste facilities
25.1 KB
1:24,000
North Carolina
Point
Center for
Geographic
Information and
Analysis
TaxParcels
Carteret County tax
54.9 MB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
This file is very large. It
parcels
might take a few minutes
to load.
TWsp83
Township boundaries
744 KB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
Willpt283
Williston E911
84.1 KB
**
Carteret County
Point
addresses
Zoneatbch83
Zoning for Atlantic
87.5 KB
"*
Carteret County
Polygon
Beach
Zonebft83
Zoning for Beaufort
83.4 KB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
Zonecapec83
Zoning for Cape
142 KB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
Carteret
Zonemc83
Zoning for Morehead
199 KB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
city
Zonenewp83
Zoning for Newport
133 KB
"*
Carteret County
Polygon
Zonepks83
Zoning Pine Knoll
111 KB
"*
Carteret County
Polygon
Shores
Zonis 83
County zoning
661 KB
**
Carteret County
Polygon
** As per Carteret County Mapping Department
al
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ATTRIBUTE TABLE FOR CAR TERET COUNTY THEMES
Atbeachpt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Len Adrinc Adrsav
Atlanticpt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, I., —to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length,Adrinc, Adrsav
Basdcm
Project lo, Local spon, Neighborho, Regional, Local, Ocean, Urban wate, Estuarine,
Handicap a, Restrooms, Showers, Parking, Spaces, Street par. Bulkhead, Dune cross,
Boardwalk, Gazebo, Picnic tab, Pier, Length, Nature tra, Comments, Date,
Contract n, Co Co name, Co abbr
Bftptl83
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road_ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrinc, Adrsav
Bftpt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrinc, Adrsav
Bftpt383
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrmc, Adrsav
Carteret nwi
Nwi name
Cartindex83
None
Cedaript283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length,Adrinc Adrsav
City83
city
Cntybound
Co Co name Co abbr, Acres
Cntyshore
Fivs, Co name, Co Co abbr, Sl id
Corebanks83
None
CountY83
None
Countyrd83
L-from R from L to R to Name T PredirSufdir Oldi Order Adrinc
Davispt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrinc Adrsav
Demog
See page ?
Emerald83
Emera1d83 Emerald 83 Zone
Emislept283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrinc Adrsav
Fire83
Name, Code Marker Label
F1oodQ3
Fips, Community, Firm_panel, Quad, Floodway, Cobra, Sfha, Symbol, Panel typ,
St fins. Co fi s State, Pcomm Panel La Long, Quad unit
Gloucpt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrinc, Adrsav
Gwrd
Elev
Harkpt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, I. —to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrinc, Adrsav
Hqorwdwq
Class. Acres
Hsds
Code Sis Nod Long, Lat, X Coor4 Y Coord, Company, Noncd Ssf
Hss87
Surge, Acres, Sqmile
H droma'
Label
Landcover
Th class Lc class, Description
Marshbgpt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrinc,Adrsav
Mobile83
Ncpin, Owner Acres, Apurec, Park, Addr, Predir, Sufdir, Wry, Type, Name
Moreheadpt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, I, -to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrinc,Adrsav
Ncboundsl
Fi s Co name Co Co abbr, Sl id
141

I
I�
u
1�
1
1
Newportpt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length,Adrinc Adrsav
Rescue83
Squad, Code, Marker, Label
Rrt100
Length, Rrtfinal, Rrtfinal_I, Majorl, Minorl, Major2, Minor2, Major3, Minor3,
Ma'or4 Minor4
Salterppt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrinc, Adrsav
Sealpt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrinc Adrsav
Sheriff83
Zone
Smymapt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length, Adrinc, Adrsav
Stacypt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length,Adrinc, Adrsav
Stellapt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length,Adrinc, Adrsav
Swansbpt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length,Adrinc Adrsav
Swf
Permit X utm Y utm Fac name,Town_count, Location 4
TaxParcels
What, Pin, Mapnum, Block, Pdot, Condo, Color, Mother, Ncpin, Sumacre, Mapnnam,
Prid Owner Dlbk, Dlpg, Deac Acres, A urec
Twsp83
None
Willpt283
E911, Type, Site, Side, Arcid, Road ID, Name, R_from, L from, L to, Addr, Predir,
Sufdir, Length,Adrinc Adrsav
Zoneatbch83
City, Zone
Zonebft83
City, Zone
Zonecapec83
City, Zone
Zonemc83
City, Zone
Zonenewp83
Precinct, Township,Precinct Zone
Zonepks83
CityZone
Zonin 83
Precinct, Township, Precinct Zone
142

IATTRIBUTES FOR THE THEME DEMOG'
1
Ll
ri
I
1
1
DEMOI
1980 P ulation
2
DEM02
1990 Population
3
DEM03
Current -Year Est CY Est Population
4
DEM04
Five -Year Projected 5YP Population
5
DEM05
Percent Population Growth CY Est — 5 YP
6
DEM06
1980 Households
7
DEM07
1990 Households
8
DEM08
CY Est Households
9
DEM09
5 YP Households
10
DEM010
Percent Household Growth CY Est — 5 YP
11
DEM011
CY Est Population by Race: Base
12
DEM012
CY Est White
13
DEM013
CY Est Black
14
DEM014
CY Est Asian &c Pac Islander
15
DEM015
CY Est American Indian and Other
16
DEM016
CY Est Hispanic
17
DEM017
CY Est Households by Income: Base
18
DEM018
CY Est HH w/Annual Income: 150K +
19
DEM019
CY Est HH w/Annual Income: 100 K —150K
20
DEM020
CY Est HH w/Annual Income: 75K —100K
21
DEM021
CY Est HH w/Annual Income: 50K — 75K
22
DEM022
CY Est HH w/Annual Income: 35K — 50K
23
DEM023
CY Est HH w/Annual Income: 25K — 35K
24
DEM024
CY Est HH w/Annual Income: 15K-25K
25
DEM025
CY Est HH w/Annual Income: 5K —15K
26
DEM026
CY Est HH w/Annual Income: Under 5K
27
DEM027
CY Est Average HH Income
28
DEM028
CY Est Median HH Income
29
DEM029
CY Est Per Capita Income
30
FORM32
CY Est Percent Male
31
FORM34
CY Est Percent Female
32
DEM035
CY Est Population Under 5 Years
33
DEM036
CY Est Population 5 — 9 Years
34
DEM037
CY Est Population 10 —14 Years
35
DEM038
CY Est Population 15 —17 Years
36
DEM039
CY Est Population 18-20 Years
37
DEM040
CY Est Population 21 Years
38
DEM041
CY Est Population 22-24 Years
39
DEM042
CY Est PoWation 25-29 Years
40
DEM043
CY Est Population 30-34 Years
41
DEM044
CY Est Population 35-44 Years
42
DEM045
CY Est Population 45-54 Years
43
DEM046
CY Est Population 55-59 Years
44
DEM047
CY Est Population 60-64 Years
45
DEM048
CY Est Population 65-74 Years
46
DEM049
CY Est Population 75-94 Years
47
DEM050
CY Est Population 85+ Years
48
DEM051
CY Est Median Age
49
DEM052
CY Est Average Age
50
BUS EMP53
Dayfirne Population
1 143

J
1
n
I
I
1
Training and Education
Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) is the world's leading GIS software
company. Governments, business, utilities, and educators throughout the world rely on
ESRI software to improve operational efficiency, increase profitability, and tap the true
potential of their databases. They have a suite of products that cover all imaginable uses of
GIS.
Arc/Info. Arc/Info integrates graphic or "spatial" data in the form of maps with descriptive
or attribute information from an organization's internal databases. Arc/Info does a variety
of tasks including but not limited to: Data automation and integration, open data
management, spatial analysis, advance cartographic productions, open development
environment/object oriented programming, and scalability. .Arc/Info is infinitely more
powerful then desktop mapping with its ability to enable organizations to distribute access
across the enterprise, incorporate relational database technologies, implement multi-user
systems, perform transaction management, and use higher -level modeling tools that help
people transform data into meaningful information.
ArcVew. There are currently more then 100,000 copies of ArcView worldwide, making
ArcView the most popular desktop GIS and mapping software. ArcView helps you create,
visualize, analyze, and present information better and more clearly. It allows you to work
with maps, database tables, and business charts all in a single view. The most appealing part
of ArcView is its user-friendly capabilities. ArNiew makes it simple to create relevant and
impressive information and products in a matter of minutes. ArcView moves the power of
GIS to the desktop of the average user, throughout the enterprise, and out to citizens
through Intranet and Internet applications.
MapObjects. This package contains over thirty programmable automation objects that let
application developers add dynamic mapping and GIS capabilities to applications. This
package is also an avenue to web based mapping. MapObjects can be used with many
programming environments, including Visual Basic, Delphi, Visual C++, and many others.
Carteret CountyArcVew Classes
The following is a list of all participants of the ArcView two-day training
workshop:
ArcView — Desktop GIS
Carteret County Class:
1. Ester M. Willis - Tax Office
2. Christopher A. Willis - Tax Office
3. Michael Addertion - Emergency Mangement
4. Kim Beasley - Morehead City Police
144

5. Barbara L. S on - Emergency Management
� g �'
6. Albert Taylor, Jr. - Tag Office
7. Priscilla W. Beveridge - Planning
8. Katrin F. Marshall - Planning/Inspections
9. Harry G. Smith - Tag Office
10. Linda Carol Fulcher - Tax Office
11. Barry Blackburn - Tax Office
Municipalr'ty Class:
12. Robert Chambers - Building Inspector - Newport
13. Stephen Smith - Carteret County Planning -Carteret County
14. Demus Thompson - Councilman - Morehead City
15. Joyce Veltman - Inspections and Planning - Morehead city
16. William W. Walker - Fire Chief - Emerald Isle
17. Carol Angus - Emerald Isle
18. Joe Clayton - Utility Director, W&S Department - Morehead City
19. Jerry Leonard - Fire Chief -,Morehead City
20. Mitsy Overman - Tax Collector - Morehead City
21. Laura H. Buda - Tax Collector - Atlantic Beach
22. Tracy Talley - Planning and Inspections Dept. - Atlantic Beach
23. Crystal Falgout - Prudential Premier Properties - Atlantic Beach
24. R. Randy Martin — City Manager - Morehead City
25. Carol Scoppe - Town of Newport
26. David McCabe — Public Works Director - Morehead City
27. Shirley Powell - Carteret County Economic Development Council -
Morehead
28. James L. Leonard - Fire Chief - Atlantic Beach
29. Andrea Frazier - Carteret County Inspections and Planning
30. Linda Staab - Planning - Morehead City
1 145

I
1 INTRODUCTION
The Detelopment and Implementation of a Regional GIS forLand Use Plammng and HaZadMitigatron:
A Study in Cattetrt County, involves the development of a custom application for viewing
parcel and flood zone data. It is referred to as the Carteret County FloodPlain Parcel
Mapper.
This documentation consists of three sections. The first section, Q.3 Flood Data Capabilities
and Limitations, will describe and discuss the flood data that will be utilized for the
application. The second section, Carteret County FloodPlain Parcel Mapper, will describe
the application, installation, and use. The third section, Data Management, will describe the
maintenance that must be performed on updated versions of data before it can be utilized
within the floodway management application.
wThis document gives step-by-step instructions to get your application installed and running
on your computer. However, if you should have any questions or need technical support,
please call our office in Goldsboro at [phone]. We hope that you will find this
application very useful in your local government activities.
Q3 FLOOD DATA CAPABILTIIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Carteret County FloodPlain Parcel Mapper Application utilizes the digital Q3 Flood
Data issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency TEMA). The following
paragraphs describe all aspects of this data.
DESCRIPTION
Under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), FEMA has created the largest natural
hazard identification data set in the world by mapping flood prone areas throughout the
United States. Currently, FEMA is working to convert these maps to a digital data product.
The Q3 Digital Flood Data product, FEMA's first widely available digital flood data,
prgyides communities with an analytic tool for flood plain management, hazard mitigation
planning, public awareness, and education utilities. Computer based mapping and
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology enable users to combine the Q3 Flood
Data with other databases to perform analysis that is difficult or impossible with paper maps.
However, the hardcopy FIRM maps and the Flood Insurance Study remain the legal
documents for administering the NFIP and are the basis of local flood plain ordinances.
CAPABILITIESANDLIMITAT70NS
Digital Q3 Flood Data does not replace the existing FIRM hardcopy maps. The
product is designed to support planning activities, some Community Rating System
activities, insurance marketing, and mortgage portfolio reviews. It does not provide base
flood elevation information; thus, it has limited application for engineering analysis,
146

1
particularly for site design or rating flood insurance policies for properties located with
Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs).
The Q3 Flood Data product can be a valuable tool in screening property addresses to
determine flood risks. However, since the geographic processing performed to
develop digital Q3 Flood Data may introduce differences with the FIRM hardcopy
sources, users must apply considerable care and judgement in the application of this
product The digital Q3 Flood Data cannot be used to determine absolute delineations of
flood risk boundaries, but instead should be seen as portraying zones of uncertainty and
possible risks associated with flood inundation. The Q3 Flood Data should be looked at
as a general, rather then a specific guide at the tax parcel level.
FEMA is currently working on a product known as dfirm 2.01 that will be an improved
digital version of the FIRM hard copy maps. Unfortunately, this data is not projected to be
available for another one to two years. However, in July 1998, GTG, Inc. will be working
with Carteret County to produce an improved flood plain GIS layer, as well as looking at
other methods for improvement on the Q3 Flood data.
ZONEAREA ATTRIBUTEDEFINITIONS
ZONE AE: This identifies an area inundated by 100-year flooding, for which base flood
elevations (BFEs) have been determined.
ZONE A: This identifies an area inundated by 100-year flooding, for which no BFEs
have been determined.
ZONE VE: This identifies an area inundated by 100-year flooding with velocity hazard
(wave action); BFEs have been determined.
ZONE X: This identifies an area that is determined to be outside the 100- and 500-year
floodplains.
ZONE X(500) This identifies an area inundated by 500-year flooding; an area inundated by
100-pear flooding with average depths of less than 1 foot or with drainage areas less then 1
square mile; or an area protected by levees from 100-year flooding.
CARTERET COUN?YFLOODPLAW PARCEL MANAGER
DESCRIPTION
The Carteret County F1oodPlain Parcel Manager allows the user to perform a search on the
tag parcel layer by:
0 Owner
• NCPIN (10 digit number for tax parcel records)
1 147

• APURec record number
(Appraisal )
s • Deed book/page
Once the property is selected, the application zooms to the parcel and shows various
information:
• Owner
• NCPIN (10 digit number for tag parcel records)
• Deed Book
• Deed Page
• APU Record (Appraisal record number)
• Sum Acres (Total acreage for the parcel)
• Condo (3 digit number indicates condo)
• Flood Zone (See previous chapter for flood zone definitions)
The application also shows two maps.
PP P
• A zoomed in view of the selected tag parcel
• A zoomed out view of where the tag parcel resides within Carteret County.
INSTALLATION
This application was designed to run on a computer using Windows 95 or Windows NT.
1. The CD-ROM that you have received contains three folders: FPPMapper, SWSETUPC
and SWSETUPD.
2. If you wish to install the application on your C drive, navigate to the SWSETUPC folder
on your CD-ROM using Windows Explorer.
3. Double click on the setup icon.
4. Follow on -screen instructions for installation.
5. If you wish to install the application on your D drive, navigate to the SWSETUPD
folder on your CD-ROM using Windows Explorer.
6. Double click on the setup icon.
7. Follow on -screen instructions for installation.
8. Once installation is complete, copy the FPPMapper folder from the CD-ROM to the .
drive that you have installed the application to.
9. Using Windows Explorer, navigate to the FPPMapper folder you just installed on your
hard drive. Within the FPPMapper folder, there is a directory called Data. Within this
directory are a number of files. Highlight these files one by one. When each file is
highlighted, click the right button on your mouse. Select `properties'.
10. There will be a check bog next to the `read only' attribute. Click on this box to remove
the check.
11. You can now access the application by clicking on your `START' button and selecting
FPPMapper from your program files.
1 148

I
TAX PARCEL SEARCH
To perform a search, view your search options by clicking the arrow next to the `Search By'
box. Select the option that meets your criteria. Type your description into the `Find' box.
Click the `Find' button. The records that meet your criteria will appear in the box below the
`Find' button. Select the record that you wish to see. Test information will appear in the
bottom box. A zoomed in view of the tax parcel map will appear, as well as a zoomed out
view of where the parcel resides within Carteret County.
I - j
APPLICATIONFUNCTIONS
Once the tax parcel map has appeared in the screen window, you can use various methods to
obtain more information. Along the top of the application is a row of buttons. If you
position your mouse cursor over these buttons, it will give a brief test description of its
function.
• The `I' button: After you click on this button, you can click your mouse on any tax parcel
within the view. The information associated with that tax parcel will appear on the screen.
• The hand button: After you click on this button, you can use the cursor to pan through
the view. Optionally, you can click on the N, S, E, and W buttons that are located around
the map view.
• The magnifying glass buttons: After one of these two buttons has been selected, you can
click your mouse on the view to zoom in or out of the window.
• The globe button: This will return your view to the full extent.
t • The printer button: This will print the current view.
Towards the bottom of the screen, there are two more buttons: One for `help' and one for
`restart'. `Restart' will restartthe application. The `Help' button offers various information
on all the functions within the application. Also on the bottom of the screen is a `Show Map
Tips' box. If this box is checked, the information that is selected to the right of this box
(owner, ncpin, apurec) will appear whenever your cursor is placed over a tax parcel.
DATA MANAGEMENT
Eventually, the Carteret County Tax Parcel layer will be updated. This chapter will explain
how to remove the current data from the application and apply the new data.
1. Using Windows Explorer, navigate to the Data folder, residing is either in the
c:\FPPMapper or d:\FPPMapper folder.
2. Remove the files that begin with the word taxparcels (you can store these in a temporary
file until you are sure your new files are working properly).
1 149

3. Copy your new taxparcel files to the FPPMapper folder. These files will be
taxparcel shp, taxparceLdbf, and taxparceLshx.
4. Copy the moconvert.avx from the Data folder. Place this in the following ArcView
directory: c:\ESRI\av,_gis30\arcview\ext32
5. Start ArcView. Under the `File' menu, select Extensions'. Place a check mark in the
MO/MOIMS CONVERSION TOOLS box. Click `OK'.
G. Add your updated tag parcel theme to a view window. Do not check the check box.
However, do make the theme active.
7. Click on the rightmost button on the top button row. It will look like two boxes
connected together by a line. If you hold your cursor over it, text will appear that says
`Merge on Ncpin'. Click on this button.
8. After some processing, ArcView will ask you what you want to name your new file. Call
this file taxparce12 and save it to your FPPMapper/Data directory. When this function is
done processing, exit ArcView.
9. Use Windows Explorer to navigate to your FPPMapper/Data directory. Delete all old
files that begin with the word taxparcels. Individually highlight the files that begin with
tagparcels2. On each file, click the right button on your mouse. Select `Rename'. Type in
the new name, which will be `taxparcels' + the original extension (.e. taxparcels.shp,
taxparcels.shg, taxparcels.dbo.
10. Restart ArcView. Add all four themes from FPPMapper/Data folder to a view window.
(City83, Cntybound, tAxparcels, FloodQ3). Make all the themes active. (You can do this by
holding down the shift key and clicking on all four themes).
11. In ArcView, click the next to rightmost button on the top button row. (This will look
like a check mark, and when you hold the cursor over it, test will appear that says "Index all
Fields). This button will index and optimize the drawing speed of the tag parcel layer.
12. Once that operation is complete, shut down ArcView. Start the FPPMapper application
and check to see if the new taxparcel layer is appearing properly.
1
1
1 150

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND PERIODICALS
GIS Coordinators and other GIS using staff will find .it worthwhile to belong to GIS related
professional organizations. A partial list of these follows:
Urban and Regional Information Systems Associations (URISA)
900 Second Street, NE, Suite 304
Washington, DC, 20002
Phone: [phone]
Fag: [phone]
Email: member urisa.org
Web: htW://www.urisa.org
'Tbe Utban and Regionallnformation Systems Association (URISA) is the oldest end largestpmfessional
organization for individuals concerned with the efective use of it formation syskms technology at the state,
regional, and local level ofgovemment. Founded in 1966, this international association'sprimaggod is to
bridge the gap between infornation vendors, producers, and userr, allowing professionals at the operation,
management, and policy making krxls to make the best irfornred decisions,
AM/FM International
14456 E. Evans Avenue
i Aurora, CO 80014
Phone: [phone]
Fag: [phone]
Web: htW://www.atnfinintl.org/
'AM/FM International is the only non profit educational association in the world that focuses on appyng
Automated Mapping and Facilities Management (AM/FM), Geographic Information Systems (GIS),
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) ay elated information technology applications for
i utilities, government agencies and other organizations concerned witb land records and facilities management.
As such, it is an invaluable resoun-e forpmfessionals in many finds who art, with inaraung frequency,
turrdng to computer -based information technology to help meet local, regional, state, national andglobal data
analysis needr. ►►
American Congress on Surveying and Mapping (ACSM)
5410 Grosvenor Lane
Bethesda, MD 20814-2122
Phone: [phone]
Fag: [phone]
Web: htW://www.l=dmuya—or-com/acstn/­
'The ayeetims ofACSM are to advance the sciences of sunxyxg and mapping and related folds, in
furtherance of the ryrlfare of those who use and make maps; to encourage the development of edwational
pm&=.r in -rww nb mapping and
1 151

chartin • and to rt ublkations that sent the ro ssional and technical interests o surveying and
� �?po p p f .f
mapping. To accomplish these of yectives, ACSM engages in a number of com activities, including -government
relations, communications and publications, conventions and con ertinces, educational services and certification
programs, and fellowship and scholarship programs:"
American Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS)
5410 Grosvenor Lane
Suite 210
Bethesda, MD 20814-2160
Phone: [phone]
Fag: [phone]
Web: htW://www.asl2rs.org/agprs/­index2.h
'AM/FM International membership includes pmfe rswnals involved in the advancement of technologes and
techniques in automated mapping/fadrMes management (AM/FM), geographic information systems (GIS),
and supervisory contml and data acquisition (SCADA). Membership consists of individuals and
orgamzations in gas and eka* utilities, telecommunications, public works, water nvrks, transportation,
cable TV, planning, tax assessment, emergency services, public safety, oil andgaspipelines, state and local
government, financial organizations, real estate, law, and eolkges and universities: In addition, bandvarr and
software vendors, consultants and service companies are part of the association."
A list of GIS and GPS related periodicals:
GIS World
155 E. Boardwalk Dr., Suite 250
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Phone: [phone]
r, Web: hM://www.geoplacc.com/}print/gw/index.htmi
"GIS WORLD rs the world's first and loading maga#ne-&voted to serving the GIS ia&wty. It is
dedicated to the understanding and application of GIS technology worldwide. As such, it covers all aspects e
the GIS industry and related folds, with an editorial focru that brings readers the most cumnt and rufil
GIS news and tt formation. Editorial emphasis msponds to the main conerrru of the GIS novice and
professional a&ke by covtiring row products; company news; GIS applications in government, utilities and the
private sector, technical issues; industry analysis; associations, ca femners and seminars; GIS in education;
contract notices; induutry employment operrings, GIS outside the United Stales; GIS uses in a#aUxy
industries, such asglobal positioning systems (GPS), mmote sensing, sure ying and aerial photography; and
much mom."
GPS World
859 Willamette St.
Eugene, OR 97401-6806
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web: b=://wwwgpsworld.com/
1 152

"Founded in 1999, GPS World is the first and only international monthly journal that features news and
applications of the Global Positioning System, GLONASS, and related technologur. GPS Newsletter,
publubed twice a month, offers news reportage and analysis of business and technology developments,
marketing trends, and policy issues affecting the GPS community."
Geo Info Systems
859 Willamette St.
Eugene, OR 97401-6806
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web: hhup://www.Moinfosystems-com
"Gto Info Systems magazine serves tbegeographic information systems commmnby by presenting arikles by
real users tackling real probkms with GIS and related spatial information technologies. The magazine also
provides news and information to help readersplan their GIS project, keep up with changing technologies,
find data sources, and stay in fornmd about policy issues and institutional trends."
* Earth Observation Magazine
13791 E. Rice Place, Suite 204
Aurora, CO 80015
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web: h=://www.tech=o.com/firms/eommWhtmi
"EOM, the magazine for Geographic, Mapping, Earth Information is an international applications journal
integrating the GeoTeehnologies of Remote Sensing, GPS, GIS, Image Processing, Aerial Photography,
Photogrammetry, Orthophotography, Mapping, and more",
Business Geographics
400 N. College, Suite 100
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web: hM://www.gcool2lace.com
"Business Geographies is a m de -ranging; inspiring magazine about thegeographic hcbnology rernlution in
business and is read by people who manage, use, or are inrxstigatinggeograpbic technology andgeo&*hic
information systems (GIS) to improve business practices'
1 153

1
,I GIS WEB RESOURCES
Great GIS Net Sites
htW://www.hdm.com/gis3.htm
"Over 700 GIS dated links to thousands of GIS / Mapping related rites"
The Geographic Information Systems FAQ
hM://www.census.gQv/ftp/12ub/=o/www/faq-index.htrnl
'This is the index of frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Geographic Ivrfovmation Systems (GIS) along
witb answers to these questions The FAQ is a resoune of the =* irfosystemsgis newsgroup which is
connected to the GIS-L mailing list."
Internet Discussion Lists for GIS
hM://12erseus.holycross.edu/PAP/General/Res/Disc lists.html
GIS/Cartography - Starting Points
hM://www.iko.unit.no/gis/gisen.htrnl
'Thispage is situated at Department of Survying and Mapping, The Norwegian Uniw3ty of Science and
Technology (NTNU), and can be used as .starting point to find various sites rela ed to Geographic
Information Systems (GIS) and Cartography"
Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI)
ham://www.esri.com
Other GIS WWW, Gopher, and FTP Lists
htW://bordeaux.uwaterloo.ca/info/www.html
Spatial Odyssey
hnp://www.ody-ssey-maine-edu/gisweb/home.html
A Up, 0id Odyssey provides n formation on how to aarss the tabk of contents of GIS journals or their
abstracts through commenid databases, provides listings of the contents of many GIS corferrnceproceedings
and published ciolkamw of articles, and provides access to the full text of sekcted GIS cor feirnee proceedings
articles'►
154

Federal Geographic Data Committee
/www.Wc;gov/
'TGDC coordinates the development of the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI). The NSDI
encompasses policies, standarrlr, and pmcedurrs for organizations to cooperatively pmduce and share
geographic data. The 15 federal agencies that make up tlx FGDC are devieloping the NSDI in cooperation
organizations fmm state, local and tribalgovemments, communities, and the private sector."
North Carolina Center for Geographic Information and Analysis (CGIA)
hM://cgja.cgja.state.nc.us/
'Mission: The mission of the Center for Geographic Information and Analysis is to enhance, facilitate, and
pmmote the e�rcunt, cost ffiaivie develapment and use ofgeographic information in North Carolina This is
achieved thmugb the oration, maintenance, and distribution of a statewide database ofgeographw
information; the pmmwn ofgeograpbw information systems services to organizations and individuals with
interests in the state, and the coordination of activities related to geographic information and tecbnolog .
National Center for Geographic Information and Analysis (NCGIA)
h=://www.ncgia.ucsb.edu/
'The NCGIA it an independent rrsearrb consortium whose primary mandate is to conduct basic rr earrh in
geographic information science and its rrlated tecbnology."
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GIS APPLICATIONS FOR CARTERET CO UNTYAND
MUNICIPALITIES
•
Zoning Change Notification
•
Building Permit Checking System
•
HoodwayAnalysis
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Buildable Area Analysis
•
Historic District Walking Tour
•
Sites oflnterest walling Tour
•
Optimal Siting for Industrial Recruitment
•
City Limit Expansion Analysis
•
Community Development Block Grant Applications
•
Pavement Management System
•
Sign Inventory
•
Pavement Mark fng Inventory
•
Hazardous Material Tracking
•
SewerFlowAnalysis
•
Water FlowAnal is
Ys
•
Storm rater Utility Management
•
Crime Analysis
•
Fire IncidentAnalysis
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•
Police Officer Location by Time ofDay/Time ofMonth
•
Optimal Fire Station Location
•
Court Case Support
•
Police Beat Optimization
•
Optimal Siting ofRecreadonal Facilities
•
Watershed Monitoring
•
Soil Conservation
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Wffdliie Habitat Evaluation
•
Hazardous haste Site Management
•
Environmental Impact Monitoring of Oil and Gas Tells
•
Map Books for Field Crews and Community
•
Emer enc Dis atch
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•
Tax Assessment
•
Address Matching
•
Land6B Siting
•
Nonpoint Pollution Control
•
Optimal Siting for Retention Ponds
•
Disaster Impact Plannia
P g
•
Public Access of GIS Layers
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•
Facilities Management
•
Vehicle Routing
•
Creating Mailing Lists
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Land Use Planning
•
TraMc Analysis
•
Voter Redistricting
•
School Redistdain
g
•
School Bus Routing
•
Reviewing Site Plans
•
Subdivision Review
•
License Tracking
•
City Owned Property Inventory
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Digital Data Available from CGIA
GIS Layer , ,
-,Scale of Data
=:Source
Notes
Air Quality Pollution
1:24,000
Division of
Location of air pollution
Discharge Points
Environmental Mgmt.
sources such as power plants,
food storage plants
Ambient Water Quality
Unknown
NCDEHNR
Statewide Coverage
Monitoring Sites
Anadromous Fish
1:100,000
Division of Marine
Extent of spawning areas for
Spawning Areas
Fisheries
fish that swim upstream
Archaeological Sites
1:24,000
NC Dept. of Cultural
Those listed in the National
Resources
Register of Historic Places
Artificial Marine Reefs
Loran Accuracy +/-
Division of Marine
Man-made ridges of rocks or
50 feet
Fisheries
other materials
Beach Access Sites
GPS Collected
Division of Coastal
Point Locations with attributes
Management
Bottom Sediment
Unknown
APES Study
Albemarle -Pamlico Estuarine
Sampling Sites
Study
County Boundaries
1:100,000
USGS
Carteret County has a more
accurate layers
Municipal Boundaries
1:100,000
USGS
Carteret County has a more
accurate layers
Municipal Boundaries
Various
Powell Bill
Derived from submissions from
various agencies
Census
1:126,720
Bureau of Census
Good for Demographics
Boundaries/Population
1970
Census
1:126,720
Bureau of Census
Good for Demographics
Boundarles/Population
1980
Citizen Water Quality
1:100,000
Various
Taken Weekly by Citizens
Monitoring Sites
Closed Shellfish
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Conditions from 1994 to
Harvesting Areas
Present
Coastal Area
1:100,000
NCDEHNR
Location of all permits in
Management Act Major
CAMA areas
Development Permits
Coastal Marinas
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Secure moorings for sailboats,
motorboats, and yachts
Coastal Reserves
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Protected areas for study
Digital Orthophoto
1 meter ground
USGS
Digital Image of Aerial.
Quarter Quadrangles
resolution
Photograph
Digital Raster Graphics
1:24,000
USGS
Not available for Carteret
County
Federal Land Ownership
1:250,000
USGS
Federal land in NC

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Fisheries Nursery Area
1:24,000
NC Division of Marine
Primary, secondary, and
Fisheries
special secondary areas
Geodetic Control Points
First or Second
NC Geodetic Survey
Horizontal and vertical control
Order Positional
points
Accuracy
Geology
1:250,000
NC Geological Survey
Geologic formations, dikes,
and faults
Groundwater
1:100,000
NCDEHNR
Areas where groundwater
Recharge/Discharge
continually feeds into streams
during dry periods
Hazardous Substance
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Locations of uncontrolled and
Disposal Sites
unregulated hazardous waste
sites -
Hazardous Waste
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Locations of treatment,
Facilities
storage, and disposal facilities
Heavy Metals and
Loran Accuracy +/-
East Carolina
Pamlico River, Neuse River,
Organic -Rich Mud
50 feet
University
and the Albemarle Sound
Pollutant Sample Sites
High Quality and
1:100,000
NCDEHNR
Waters identified as having
Outstanding Resource
excellent water quality
Water Management
Zones
Historic Sites and
1:24,000
NC Dept. of Cultural
Historic sites and districts
Districts - National
Resources
Register Sites
Historic Sites and
1:24,000
NC Dept. of Cultural
Determined eligible status
Districts - Study List
Resources
Hurricane Stone Surge
1:100,000
Division of
Based on the Easter North
Inundation Areas -1987
Emergency
Carolina Hurricane Evacuation
Management
Study, 1987
Hurricane Storm Surge
1:24,000
US Army Corps of
Based on Slosh Models
Inundation Areas -1993
Engineers
Available for Pender, Onslow,
New Hanover, and Brunswick
Counties
Hydrogeology - NC
1:500,000
NCDEHNR
Wester Part of the State
Piedmont and Blue Ridge
Hydrography
1:24,000
USGS
All surface waters
Hydrography - Major
1:100,000
USGS
Not as Detailed as 1:24,000
Hydrologic Units - NC
1:24,000
USGS
Hydrologic Units
Hydrologic Units - NC
1:24,000
Various
Riverbasins
Riverbasins
Jurisdictional
1:24,000
USGS
Various political boundaries
Boundaries
Land Use / Land Cover
1:100,000
APES Study
Available for Easter NC
Military Air Space
1:250,000
NCDEHNR
Special Use Air Space

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National Pollutant
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Surface water discharge
Discharge Elimination
locations as recorded on
System Sites
permits for NPDES sites
National Wetlands
1:24,000
US Fish and Wildlife
Not Complete
Inventory
Service
Natural Areas
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Ecologically significant
communities of rare species
Natural Heritage Element
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Endangered species and
Occurrence Sites
occurrences of exemplary or
unique natural ecosystems
Peat Deposits of the
1:24,000
Various
Thickness of peat deposits
Pamlimarie Peninsula
Potential Wetland
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Not yet available
Restorations Sites
Proposed Critical Habitat
1:100,000
NC Wildlife
Extent of endangered or
Areas
Resources
threatened aquatic species
Commission
Recreation Projects -
Distance Bearing
Various
Boundaries of Recreation
Land and Water
Collection
Projects
Conservation Fund
Shellfish Strata
1:12,000
NC Division of Marine
Arras depicting presence of
Fisheries
underwater habitat of different
species
Shoreline
1:24,000
USGS
1948-1990 Sou roes
Solis - Detailed
1:24,000
USDA
Various attributes
Solid Waste Facilities
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Active municipal solid waste
landfills
Spiny Mussels
1:100,000
NCDEHNR
Known locations of freshwater
spiny mussels
State-owned Complexes
Various
State Property Office
Boundaries of state -mimed
complexes
State Parks
1:100,000
NCDEHNR
Boundaries
Stream Gaging Stations
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Point Layer
Submersed Rooted
Various
Various
Vascular Plants
Vasculars
Surface Water Intakes
1:24,000
NCDEHNR
Locations where communities
draw raw water
Tiger/Une Census Files,
1:100,000
Bureau of Census
Demographic Data
1990
Topography - Contours
1:24,000
USGS
Only small part of the state
covered
Topography - DEM
1:24,000
USGS
700/6 of NC Covered
Transportation - Pipe and
1:24,000
USGS
From Topo Quads
Transmission
Transportation - Pipe and
1:100,000
USGS
From Topo Quads
Transmission
Transportation - Primary
1:126,720
NCDOT
County Road Maps
Roads

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Transportation - Railroad
1:24,000
USGS
From Topo Quads
Grade Crossings
Transportation -
1:24,000 and
USGS
From Topo Quads
Railroads
1:100,000
Transportation - Roads
1:24,000 and
USGS
From Topo Quads
and Trails
1:100,000
Water Supply
1:24,000
Various
DEM Classification Schedule
Watersheds
Wildlife Resource
Various
Wildlife Commission
Publicly Owned Game Lands
Commission Game
Lands
IDigital Data Available from Carteret County
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= :Notes
Tax Parcels
Parcel Polygons with Owners, Pin Number, Dimensions,
and Other Data for Each Parcel
Other Parcel Lines
Easements, Land Hooks, Subdivision Comers, Ellipse, and
Original Lot Lines if Two Lots are Combined
Core Banks
Core Banks Property Lines
Index
Grid System for Mapping
Commissioner Districts
County Commissioner Districts
Pipe Line
Water Lines for Cape Carteret, Cedar Point, Bogue, and
Hwy 24
Water
Water Lines for SR 1300 East Carteret High School North
to Water Tank
city
City Limit Lines
County
County Boundaries
Fire
Fire District Lines
Miscellaneous
Condo Unit Numbers, Easements, and Utility Rights of
Way
Original Lot
Original Lot Lines When Began GIS
Rescue
Rescue District Lines
Soil
Soil Coverage
Tiger File
US Bureau of the Census Tiger Line Files
Township
Township Boundaries
Symbols
Land Hooks and Symbols
Waterl
Water Lines on Bogue Banks
Water2
Water Lines Western Part of County
Water3
Water Lines Eastern Part of County
Newlul
Land Use on Bogue Banks
Newlu2
Land Use Western Part of County
Newlu3
Land Use Eastern Part of County
Zoning
I County Zoning

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Sheriff
Sheriff Districts
Shellfish
Shellfish Leases in County Waters With Owners,
Addresses, Township, Lease and Location
Votingcen
Voting Precincts per Census and NC General Assembly
Atbeachpt2
Atlantic Beach E911 Addresses
Atlanticpt2
Atlantic E911 Addresses
Bftpt1
South River Area of Beaufort E911 Addresses
Bftpt2
Downeast area of Beaufort E911 Addresses
Bftpt3
Remainder of Beaufort E911 Addresses
Cedarpt2
Cedar Island E911 Addresses
County Rd
County Roads and Roads Names
Dotquad2
Original Road Coverage Before Corrections and Additions
Emislept2
Emerald isle E911 Addresses
Harkpt2
Harkers Island E911 Addresses
Other E911 Layers
Various other E911 Address Layers
ZIPCode
Zip Code Layer
Nbrhd
Carteret County Neighborhoods with Codes
Emerald
Emerald Isle Zoning Codes
BFHIS
Beaufort Historical Sites with Owner Names
Underground Tanks
Carteret County Underground Tanks with Addresses,
Capacity and Material
Mobile Home Parks
Carteret County Mobile Home Parks
Hog Farms
Coverage Depicting Location of Hog Fame
Wetlands
Unrecorded Surveys that Designate Wetlands for Western
Carteret County
Wetlands East
Unrecorded Surveys that Designate Wetlands for Eastern
Carteret County
Wetlands Corps
Recorded or Unrecorded Surveys Certified by the Corp of
Engineers of Designated 404 Wetlands for Bogue Banks
Wetlands Corps 2 1AnA
Wetlands for Western Carteret County
Wetlands Corps 3
404 Wetlands for Eastern Carteret County
Digital Data Available for Carteret County from the Division of
' Emergency Management
Layer
Basemap
Contains
Polygon in shape of county
ImportantGIS - .
state state name FIPS
Water (River, Lakes)
Ocean, straits, sounds, lakes,
Name, class
reservoirs, rivers, creeks, and
other permanent water features
Elevation (DEM)
Digital elevation models, derived
Lower, upper
from USGS data with 10 m
contours.

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Major highways
Interstates, US highways, major
Name, owner, class, num tan, pvmnt,
state highways, city streets that
width, length, traffic, capacity, cost,
are also major highways
elevat county
Streets
Streets, drives, boulevards, courts,
Name, city, zip, length, county,
streets other than
road class
highways/freeways within the
county
Airports
Private and public airfields and
Arpt id, name, address, city, zipcode,
airports
owner, contact, phone, class, function,
bldg_type, designlvl, foundation,
bu_pwr, anchor, year b, flights,
passengers, cargo, cost, elevat, lat,
long, geores,county
Runways
Runways at public airfields and
Name, a name, arpt id, class, type,
airports. Basically same locations
width, lenmaxspan, length, num ap,
as airports layer
elevat, county, lat long
Dams
Dams on rivers. Includes power
Dam name, owner, class, countyname,
generating and non -power
river, near city, disL city, purpose,
generating
year compl, dam length, dam height,
struct hgt, max disch, mace stor,
norm stor, surf area, drain area,
hazard, eap, spiil_type, spill width,
volume, cost, primary sr, lat, long, crity
Oil Companies
Oil company tank farms
Name, address, city, zipcode, owner,
contact, phone, class, function,
bldntype, designivl, foundation,
bu,_pwr, anchor, year b, capacity, cost,
elevat lot long, geores, county
Cities/Towns
Areas of population centers of
Key, area, IQ, name, cidy_n,
varying size. towns, cities
population, in sample, families,
households, male, female, other
specific demographic fields
Schools
Public/private/religious preschools,
Name, address, city, zipcode, district,
elementary, middle, secondary
contact, phone, class, bldg_type,
schools, colleges, universities
designivl, bias, foundation, yearb, cost,
buJpwr, function, num student, sarea,
shit cap, kitchen, elevat, lat, long,
sores county
Radio Stations
AM/FM radio stations. Also TV
Name, address, city, zipcode, owner,
stations, transmission sites,
contact, phone, Gass, function,
repeaters, communication towers,
bldg_type, designivl, foundation,
USCG comet centers
buawr, anchor, year b, cost, elev, tat,
long, geores, county
Fire Department
Professional and volunteer fire
Lastname, firstnarne, address, city, zip,
departments
telephone, busflag, pubdate, since,
sic1 s1c2 s1c3
Health Care Facilities
Hospitals, clinics, medical centers.
Name, address, city, zipcode, contact,
Includes chemical dependency
phone, class, bidg_type, designivi, bias,
and correctional medical facilities
foundation, year b, cost, buawr,
function, num beds, aha id, elevat, aft,
long, geores, county
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Red Cross Offices
American Red Cross offices and
Name, address, city, zip, telephone,
related facilities
xcoord, ycoord, zcoi9
Shelters (Fallout)
Shelters, believed to be fallout
Name, address, city, zipcode, owner,
shelters. Some may be disaster
occupancy, use code, bldg_type,
shelters. Statewd list has several
stru code, strut type, floor type,
errant points
wall type, stories, yearb, bu_pwr,
spec fat survey dat county, lat, Ion
Prisons
Prisons, detention centers, youth
County, tract, zip, lat, long, name,
detention centers and corrections
name2, street, city, sict, sfc2, sic3, zip4
related schools
Churches
Churches, parsonages,
Fuliname, address, city, zip, telephone,
church directed outreach
busflag, sicl,14 long
ministries, parish schools,
seminaries related ministries
Hazmat Sites
Manufacturing plants that
Name, address, city, zipcode, contact,
use/produce hazardous materials,
phone, cas, them name, them quant,
includes materials involved,
sic, class, bldg_type, designlvl, bias,
contacts, etc.
foundation, year b, epa id, per amnt,
elevat [at, long, geores, countv
03
FEMA Q3 areas, relating to
Area, permiter, c37### id, FIPS,
floodplains and flood insurance
community, firmganel, quad, zone,
rates
flood►way, cobra, sfha, symbol,
panel typ, st fips, co lips, pcomm.
panel, lat long, quad unit it

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Final Study Findings & Recommendations:
This is a good time to be entering the world of GIS. GIS has moved to the personal
computer over the past few years. The cost ofhatdware capable ofnmrning GIS
software has decreased six fold over the past five, eY ars while increasing in speed
dramatically. Also, the cost of software has decreased dramatically. Just a few years ago,
the cost of GIS software was $7,000 per person. Today, with the advent of multiple PC
software options, the cost has decreased to approximately $1,000 per person. The following
is a list of project findings and recommendations:
1. Implementing Three Tiers of GIS is Important
Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) is the world's leading GIS software
company. Governments, business, utilities, and educators throughout the world rely on
ESRI software to improve operational efficiency, increase profitability, and tap the true
potential of their databases. They have a suite of products that cover all imaginable uses of
GIS. It is stronlvrecommended that Carteret Countvimplement the three tiers of
GIS.
Arc/Info — flagship
ArcView — desktop
MOM — applications
Arc/Info: Arc/Info integratesgraphic or "spatial" data in the form of maps with descriptive or
attribute information from an organiZation's internal databases. Arr/Irrfo does a variety of tasks
including but not limited to: Data automation and integration, open data management, spatial
analysis, advanced cartographic productions, open development environment/object oriented
programming, and scalability. Arc/Info is infinitely more powerful then desktop mapping.
' ArcView: Then air cunrntymon than 100,000 copies ofArcMew worldwide, making
ArcView the most popular desktop GIS and mapping software. AreView helps to create,
visualize, analyze, andprrsent information better and more clearly. It allows the user to work with
maps, database tables, and business charts all in a single new. The most appealing part of
' ArrView is its userfriendly capabilities.
' MapObjects: Thu package contains over thirty programmable automation objects that let
application developers add dynamic mapping and GIS capabilities to applications Thu package is
also an avenue to web based mapping. MapObjects can be used with many programming
environments, including Visual Basic, Delphi, Visual C++, and many others
2. Training and Education ofStaff
It will be important to continue to train and educate key staff on Arc/Info, ArcView,
and custom GIS applications. This should be seen as re -engineering all municipalities, and
' the County departments in the use of GIS, and related technology.
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3. County Digital Data and the Bormouth T"Appraisal System
An important task is to develop a working relationship between the County departments and
the municipalities Accessibt to data/information from the County will be ve{v
iM rtant. The success of GIS throughout the County will depend on the availability and
'
access to the abundance of digital data. It is strongly recommended that the County
solve the Tax appraisal information A County User -Group
meeting will foster teamwork and communication.
4. Build GPS Expertise to Enhance GIS database
It is strongly recommended that the larj_ermunicipalities build GPS expertise in-house.
Mapping grade GPS equipment should be purchases and utilized by key Staff. An action
plan should be developed that will include:
'
1. Retaining GPS Consulting Services
2. Developing a Priority List for Data Capture
3. Training of key Staff
4. Purchasing Equipment — GPS Hardware and Software
5. Collecting Field Data Using In-house Staff / Consultant / Combination of key Staff and
Consultant
6. Developing Relational Databases / Data Dictionaries
7. Developing Seamless Link to GIS
8. Identifying Software Customization Opportunities
9. Understand Future Applications
5. Hire a GIS coordinator and/or a Data Processing Manager
It is recommended that a GIS Manager / Coordinator is hired. The Seven keys to Successful
GIS Implementation chapter should act as a road map for the GIS Coordinator. The County
tag office is interviewing prospective candidates for the Data Processing Manager
6. Add Computer Resources As Needed
It is recommended that each department within each municipality add computer hardware
and software as needed to accommodate the efficient use of GIS software. Often computer
resources are a specific " line -item" within a community's yearly budget, and can therefore,
often are seen as a separate cost. Hardware and softwammprocutrment by the Coupty
departments and each municipalitvshould be coordinated and discussed at the GIS
rUsers -Group meetings.
Z Develop Custom GISApplications
It is recommended that Carteret County utilize MapObiects for the development of
Custom applications and an Internet /Intranet Map Server. MapObjects and Visual
158

Basic are a powerful collection of mapping and geographic information system components
' to develop custom applications. Applications will have functionality that may consist of:
♦ Pan and zoom through multiple map layers.
' ♦ Perform spatial analysis and queries.
♦ Display data using classifications, graduated symbols, labeling, and dot density.
♦ Display a wide variety of image formats.
♦ Use relational databases and SQL queries.
♦ Perform address geocoding.
' Screen Shot of NfapObjects Internet Map Server
_o
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8. Recommended GIS Confr tion
guts
• Tau Administration (Flagship GIS User)
Carteret County Tax Administration encompasses tax administration, mapping, and GIS,
This is the most important department to the overall success of GIS in Carteret
Coun They act as the data clearinghouse for the county. Also, they maintain the
cadastral (tax parcel) layer. This layer serves as the basis for all other GIS layers. It must be
kept up-to-date, linked to the tax appraisal data, and distributed to all other organizations in
the county.
The current hardware configuration is comprised of Digital Equipment Computers utilizing
VMS as the operating system. Various output devices, input devices, and networks are
utilized.
It is ft& recommended that the VMS based computers be re laced with Windows
1VT based comFuters Carteret County has utilized Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC)
for most of its hardware needs. DEC sells a version of Windows NT that runs on its
workstations. However, many reports note compatibility problems with this version of NT.
Some hardware and software is not compatible with the DEC Windows NT
1 159

E
implementation. Therefore, the county should utilize the standard Microsoft version of
p
Windows NT workstation and Windows NT server operating systems.
' A high -end PC should be purchased with Windows NT server software. This PC will act as
g
the central clearinghouse for data in tax administration and will allow optimal management
rof the NT network. Each VMS based machine should be replaced with a PC running
Windows NT workstation
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PathWorks networking software is needed to transfer data in the current hardware
configuration. As the upgrade to Windows NT progresses PathWorks should be jettisoned.
A network consisting of 10/100 baseT cabling, hubs, and switches should serve as the
Carteret County Reccommended GIS Layout
Eiectrostatic viorter
HP InkJet Plotter
county's backbone. Windows NT will serve as the networking operating system and
TCP/IP can be utilized to communicate with the internet.
The following is a list of GIS related issues that should be addressed over the next few years:
• Internet GIS — The County should purchase an internet server and begin serving their
wealth of GIS data over the internet. MapObjects IMS from ESRI with custom
programming from a consultant is recommended.
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• ArcView — More copies of ArcView should be purchased and utilized by staff in the tax
office.
• Tax Attributes — all of the tax appraisal data should be downloaded from the Bormouth
system and tied to the GIS tax parcel layer.
• New Tax System — a study should be conducted as to the feasibility of acquiring new
tax appraisal software. If feasible, then a rigorous selection process should ensue.
• Tax Counter Public Access — A MapObjects GIS application should be made available
for citizens at the tax counter. This easy to use interface would allow users to find a
piece of property of interest and print out a map.
• High -End Color Printer — a high speed color printer should be purchased to serve the
entire department. This printer would be networked and would serve everyone.
• Emergency Management (Desktop GIS User)
Emergency Management's main need is access to GIS data. A ZIP drive should be
purchased to share data with other agencies in Carteret County. The purchase of a new
Computer Aided Dispatch system is being explored. This system will utilize a network of
Windows NT based PCs and SQL server software. This configuration works well with GIS.
The following is recommended:
• A second copy of ArcView should be purchased for use in Emergency Management
• A high -end color printer should be purchased to serve the entire department.
• A fiber optic direct link to the tax administration office should be installed. This will
make data sharing and data update easy and immediate.
• A GIS floodway management program should be utilized.
• A GIS based routing and address location identifier program should be utilized.
• Planning (Desktop GIS User)
The Planning Department of Carteret County has identified many desired uses of GIS. First
and foremost the Planning Department needs easy access to GIS data. Personal Computers
utilizing Windows95 as the operating system should be deployed throughout Planning. Each
PC should be a part of the overall County Network. Data should be accessed directly from
the GIS computers in the tax office. The following is recommended:
• Each Windows 95 PC should have a ZIP Drive.
• ArcView3 should reside on each new PC.
• Zoning changes should be done on GIS.
• GIS should be utilized for floodway management.
• Funds should be sought for improving the accuracy of floodway maps.
• A high -end color printer should be acquired to serve the entire department as new PCs
become networked.
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CD Drive
Iomega
ZIP
Drive
CD Drive
Planning Recommended Computer Layout
CD Drive
rtndo 95 p Windows 95 PC
Iomega
ZIP
Huh Drive
Overall Recommended GIS Configuration for Carteret County
CD Drive
Iomega
ZIP
Drive
162

Carteret County Overall Connectivity
1
------------.1 Western
Emergency Ofice and
Services Tape or CD Transfer_` Other
`---� Remote
Fiber
Tax Administration and
Planning
G
163

1
• Carteret County Communities
(1) Morehead City (Desktop GIS User)
Morehead City has been using MapInfo for GIS projects over the past few years. They have
a strong desire to expand GIS functionality. Their biggest need is an up-to-date tax GIS
layer and access to other GIS layers. MapInfo has been replaced by ArcView in the Planning
Department. ArcView running on a Windows 95 personal computer is the optimal GIS
solution for Morehead City. A Zip Drive should be acquired for data sharing. They
currently have an HP color plotter for producing maps. The following is recommended:
• Another copy of ArcView should be purchased for Planning and the Fire Department
• All tax department attributes be acquired
• A generic data browser MapObjects application be loaded on all laptops for Fire
Department field inspectors
• Map books should be created utilizing ArcView for the Fire Department
• A GIS based floodway management application be acquired
(2) Beaufort (Desktop GIS User)
Beaufort should purchase of copy of ArcView. ArcView should be run on a Windows95 personal
computer. A Zip drive should be utilized for data sharing. Data from Carteret County should be acquired.
The following is recommended:
• A copy of the flood plain application should be utilized.
• New layers such as storm water and water should be created.
• A low end printer should be acquired (See Previous Chapter)
(3) Newport (Desktop GIS User)
Newport has acquired a copy of ArcView to replace MapInfo. Newport should receive data
from Carteret County on a monthly basis. Newport should create layers of all infrastructure.
The following is recommended:
• A low end color printer should be acquired
• A floodway management application should be utilized
• A ZIP Drive should be acquired
(4) Emerald Isle (Desktop GIS User)
Emerald Isle should acquire a copy of ArcView immediately. Emerald Isle should receive
data from Carteret County on a monthly basis. New layers showing infrastructure should be
created. The following is recommended:
1 164

• A low end color printer should be acquired
• A floodway management application should be utilized
• A ZIP Drive should be acquired
r(5) Atlantic Beach (Desktop GIS User)
Atlantic Beach should acquire a free upgrade copy of ArcView to replace MapInfo. Atlantic
' Beach should receive data from Carteret County on a monthly basis. Atlantic Beach has
identified many new layers of GIS data that are needed. The following is recommended:
• A low end color printer should be acquired
• A floodway management application should be utilized
• A ZIP Drive should be acquired
• GIS should be used for land use planning
• GIS should be used for tracldng fire history
• GIS should be used for tracking fire hydrant inspections
Pine Knoll Shores Cape Carteret Cedar Point, Bogue, Peletier, Indian Beach
(Casual GIS User)
Each of the smaller communities in Carteret County can benefit from GIS. A
l�
Windows95 based personal computer should be utilized to run a generic data browser
MapObjects GIS application. The cost of this application is $500. This would allow users
to view, print, and query data layers for their communities.
'
Pine Knoll Shores, Cape Carteret, Cedar Point,
Bogue, Peletier, and Indian Beach Recommended
Computer Layout
u o e `
CD Drive
Data Received
fmm Carteret
County
r
PC With Genetic
Data Browser
lomega --
ZIP Drive
Low End
Color Printer
I
1 165

Inserts-Preprinted/Blank
Kodak ImageSource 110 Copier Key Sheet �1 '
Inserts - Preprinted/Blank I
u U U
1
1
1
O P E R A T O R I N S T R U C T I O N S

' Geographic Information Systems (GIS) &
Global Positioning System (GPS)
Glossary
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is an expanding technical tool that employs specialized
terminology. This glossary defines many terms for new and prospective users of GIS.
A
'
Acceptance Test
P
A test for evaluating a newt purchased s stem's performance and
g YP Y
Access
conformity to specifications.
A interval between instant data
time
measure of the time the that are
Accuracy
called from storage and the instant that delivery is complete.
Conformity with a standard of correctness in measurement.
Accuracy relates to the quality of a result and is distinguished form
precision which relates to the quality of the operation by which the
result is obtained.
Acoustic Coupler
A de -,rice that enables a computer terminal to be linked to another
over the telephone system via the handset of a conventional
telephone.
Addressable Point
A position on a visual display unit (VDU) that can be specified by
absolute coordinates.
Addressability
The number of positions (pixels) in the X and Y axes on a VDU or
graphics screen.
ADMATCH
A computer program that can match street addresses with census
(Address matching)
tracts and/or block codes and that can convert street addresses to
coordinates for computer mapping.
Algorithm
Statement of the steps to be followed in the solution of a problem.
The number of positions (pixels in the X and Y axes on a VDU or
graphics screen).

Abasing
occurrence of jagged lines on a raster -scan display i
The occurr l gg y image ge when
the detail exceeds the resolution of the screen.
Alphanumeric Code
Machine-processable letters, numbers and special characters, hence
alphanumeric screen. Alphanumeric keyboard for displaying and
entering alphanumeric characters.
American National
Standards Institute
An association formed by the American Government and industry
to produce and disseminate widely used industrial standards.
(ANSI)
American Standard
A widely used industry standard for exchanging alphanumeric codes
Information
in terms of bit signatures
Interchange (ASCII)
Analog
A continuously varying electronic signal (contrast with Digital).
Application
A task addressed by a computer system.
Applications Program
or Package
A set of computer programs designed for a specific task.
Arc
A line established by connecting a set of points. It has length but no
area and often serves as one side of a polygon. Arcs may begin and
end with nodes and have points of inflection defined by vertices.
Archival Storage
Magnetic media (tapes, removable disks) used to store programs and
data outside the normal addressable memory units of the computer.
Area
A fundamental unit of geographical information. See Point, and
Line. (1) A polygon that encloses a homogeneous unit (e.g., lake,
country, state, country). (2) A level of spatial measurement that
references the size or extent of a two-dimensional defined space.
Array
A series of addressable data elements in the form of a grid or matrix.
Array Processor
A special hardware board for high-speed processing of data encoded
on a matrix.
Assembler
A computer program that converts programmer -written instructions
p P gT p �
into computer -executable (binary) instruction.
Assembly Language
A low-level (primitive) programming language that uses memories
rather than English -like statements.
Associated Data
See Attribute.

Aspect
Horizontal direction in which a slope faces. Commonly expressed
degrees clockwise from north (e.g., a southeast facing slope has an
aspect of 135 degrees). Contrast with slope.
Attribute
A numeric and/or text description of spatial entity (e.g., a point, line
or area element in a GIS). Attribute data is typically stored in tabular
format.
Autocorrelation,
Statistical concepts expressing the degree to which the value of an
Autocovariance
Attribute at spatially adjacent points co -varies with the distance
separating the points.
Automated
The process of drawing maps with the aid of computer driven
Cartography
display devices such as plotters and graphics screens. The term
does not imply any information processing.
Automatic Data
Processing
The use of any kind of automation in data processing.
Automated
Management
A system that integrates automated mapping with facilities
management (e.g., Mapping/Facilities management of lines,
power
(AM/FM)
utilities, energy services). AM/FM provides digital or computer -
based storage, management, retrieval, and display of urban data for
cadastral mapping and utilities management.
Auxiliary Storage
Addressable memory devices outside the main memory of the
computer such as disks and tape units.
Azimuth
The horizontal direction measured clockwise from north (e.g., due
i
south as the azimuth 180 degrees).
B
r
Background
Tasks such as printing are given a lower priority b the computer
P g l� p tY Y P
than those Processing/Mode requiring direct user interaction.
Back-up
Makin a co of a file or a whole disk for safekeeping in case the
g PY P g
original is lost or damaged.
Base Layer
A a variety layer containinge of features often used for locational
tY
reference (e.g., section corners, political boundaries, and other major
features) or to establish geodetic control which ensures geographic
fidelity between data sets in the GIS.

M
Base Map
Mapped data which seldom char and which are used repeatedly
pp change p y
for locational reference and control. It also establishes the lowest
common denominator for map scale, coordinate system, and
projection for other maps in a GIS database. Contrast with thematic
map.
BASIC
Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code. A simple, high-
level priority by the computer than those requiring direct user
interaction.
Batch Processing
The processing of a group of similar jobs on the computer without
operator intervention.
Baud Rate
A measure of the speed of data transmission between a computer
and other devices -- equivalent to bits per second.
Benchmark
A reference point for measurements, normally one that is used for
elevation reference.
Benchmark Test
A test to evaluate the capabilities of a computer system in terms of
performance and ability to meet customer requirements.
Binary coded
The expression of each digit of a decimal number in terms of a set
Decimal
of bits.
Bit The smallest unit of information that can be stored and processed in
a computer. A bit may have two values -- 0 or 1; i.e., YES/NO,
TRUE/FALSE, ON/OFF.
Bit Map A pattern of bits (i.e., ON/OFF) on the grid stored in memory and
used to generate an image on a raster scan display.
Bit Plan A gridded memory in a graphics device used for storing information
for display.
Bits per Inch (BPI) The density of bits recorded on a magnetic tape. 800,1600 and 6500
are common standards.
Boolean Operators Search strategy for information retrieval based on the use of the
logical operators AND (union), OR ('intersection), NOT
(complement), and XOR (exclusion) to represent symbolic
relationships.
Boot Up To start up a computer system.
Browse System capability to search for an undefined feature or set of
features in a database.
11

Buffer
Bu r
An of specified distance radius around a ma item or items.
area p (radius) p
See proximity analysis.
B �
An error in a computer program or in a piece of electronics that
P P In
causes it to function improperly.
Bulk memory
An electronic devices such as disks or tapes that allow the storage of
large amounts of data.
Bus
A circuit or group of circuits that provide a communication path
8r P P
between the computer and peripherals.
Byte
Yt
A group of contiguous bits, usually eight, that represent a character
� PY g P
and which are operated on as a unit. The number of bytes is used to
measure the capacity of memory and storage units, e.g. 256 Kbytes,
300 Mbytes.
C
C
A high level programming language used in graphics.
CAD/CAM
Computer -Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing. Several
CAD/CAM systems also include major features for GIS and
automated mapping.
Cadastral Parcel
The smallest legally defined piece of land. Used for recording
ownership and related attributes.
Cadastre
A survey that creates, defines, retraces, or reestablishes the
boundaries and subdivisions of public lands and private estates. The
ownership, characteristics, and value of private lands are recorded
for taxation purposes.
Cartesian
A plane coordinate system in which the locations of points in space
are expressed Coordinates by reference to two or three planes, called
the "coordinate planes" (xy or xy,z).
Cartographic
The use of basic GIS manipulation functions or tools in a logical
Modeling
sequence to solve spatial problems.
Cartography
The science of map making, including the art and technology of
map -making.
Cartridge Disk
A type of magnetic memory disk enclosed in a plastic cartridge.

Cathode Ray Tube
An electronic screen for displaying information or graphics. Also
(CRT)
called a visual display device (VDU).
Cell
The basic element of spatial information in the raster (grid)
description of spatial entities.
Central Processing
The part of the computer that controls the whole system.
Unit (CPU)
Centroid
The mathematical or geographical center point of a polygon or the
midpoint of a line. It is described as an x, y coordinate.
Chain
A sequence of coordinates defining a complex line or boundary. See
Arc, and String.
Character
An alphabetical, numerical or special graphic symbol that is treated
as a single unit of data.
Character per
A measure of the speed with which a device (usually a printer or a
Second (CPS)
VDU) can process data in the form of characters.
Choropleth Map
A map with areas colored or shaded such that the darkness or
lightness of an area symbol is proportional to the density of the
mapped phenomena or is symbolic of the class.
Classification Process of assigning individual observations of features into groups,
categories, or classes.
Clip The process of extracting a portion of a coverage or map from a
larger coverage, much like a cookie cutter.
Code A set of specific symbols and rules for representing data and
programs so that they can be understood by the computer. See
ASCII, FORTRAN, PASCAL, etc.
Cbincidence Analysis Process of examining the co -occurrence of mapped phenomena.
Color Display A CRT capable of displaying maps and results in color.
Command An instruction sent form the keyboard or other control device to
execute a computer program.
Command language An English -like language for sending commands for complicated
programs sequences to the computer.
Compiler A computer program that translates a high-level programming
language, such as FORTRAN or PASCAL into machine-readable
code.

Composite Map A single map created by joining together several separately digitized
maps.
Computer Aided Software with the capability of performing standard engineering
Design (CAD) drawing and architecture design functions. It is graphically
oriented rather than geographically based. Unlike a GIS, the
database is generally not structured to allow spatial analysis.
However, some data developed in CAD systems can be
incorporated into a GIS.
Computer Aided Software with the capability of performing standard mapping
functions, typically mapping (CAM) using a vector format. Unlike a
GIS, it cannot analyze or process the database.
Computer Graphics A general term embracing any computing activity that results in
graphic images.
Computing The total range of hardware and software facilities provided by a
given make of environment host computer and its operating system.
Configuration A particular combination of computer hardware and software for a
certain class of application tasks.
Conflation Procedure of reconciling the position of corresponding features in
different themes so that the corresponding features overlay precisely.
Connectivity analysis See network analysis
: Console A device that allows the operator to communicate with the
computer.
Contiguity Analysis See neigbborbood analysis.
Contour An imaginary line on the ground, all points of which are at the same
elevation, usually expressed as a length or elevation above some
datum such as mean sea level.
Control Point A permanently fixed point of the ground, the location of which has
been accurately determined and recorded for reference and future
use.
Coordinate Coordinates are used to represent location on the earth's surface
relative to other locations in either 2 (x,y) or 3 (x,y,z) dimensions.
Coordinate The conversion of surveying data into geographic locations.
Geometry (COGO)
fJ
I

1
t
1
Demarcation The field measurements (e.g., land survey) that determine the
physical locations of boundary markers of cadastral parcels.
Derived Map A map created as the result of analyzing, altering, or combining a
pre-existing map or a series of maps in the GIS.
Device A piece of equipment external to the computer designed for a
specific function such as data data storage, or data output.
Digital The ability to represent data in discrete, quantitized units or digits.
Digital Data Collection of similar and related data records that are converted into
a form for use by a computer.
Digital Elevation A data file of a topographic surface arranged as a set of xy,z
Model (DEM) coordinates where z represents surface elevation. It is the digital
equivalent of the elevation data portrayed on a topographic base
map.
Digital Exchange A standard format for exchanging digital cartographic (map) files
Format (DXF) and associated spatial data between different GIS systems.
Digital Line Graph A file or data structure from the US Geological Survey (USGS)
(DLG) that includes digital non -topographic information from the USGS
map base categories such as transportation, hydrology, and public
land survey boundaries.
Digital Terrain See digital elevation model.
Model (DTM)
Digitizer A device consisting of a table and a cursor (often with crosshairs and
keys) that is used for capturing and recording the locations of map
features as x,y Cartesian coordinates. (The spatial coordinates of
mapped features from a map or document to the computer. See all
Cursor, Puck, and Mouse).
Direichlet Tesselation The process of splitting up a study area such that all points in the
sample area are grouped into tiles according to the minimum
distance between them and a previously sampled point. Also known
as Thiessen or Voronoi polygons.
Disk A storage medium consisting of a spinning disk coated with
magnetic material for recording digital information.
Diskette A cheap, low capacity storage medium, usually measuring 3'/z , 5'/.,
or 8 inch in diameter. Much used in microcomputer: Also known as
a'floppy' or a'floppy disk'.

�J
Dissolve The process of removing boundaries between adjacent polygons
having the same values for a specified attribute.
Distance Analysis Geographic computations based on Euclidean and/or non-
Euclidean distances between features.
Distributed The placement of hardware processors where needed, instead of
Processing concentrating all computer power in a large central CPU.
Dot -Matrix Plotter A plotter of which the printing head consists of many, closely space
(100-400 per inch) wire points that can write dots on the paper to
make a map. Also known as an electrostatic plotter or matrix
printer.
1
1
11,

i
Double Precision Typically refers to the use Cm 32-bit word computers) of a double
word of 64 bits to represent real numbers to, in this case, a precision
of approximately 16 significant figures.
Drum Plotter A device with a rotating cylindrical drawing surface and paper reels
for plotting graphic images on a continuous roll of paper.
Drum Scanner A device for converting maps to digital form automatically.
E
Easting One of two geographic coordinate values (the other being northing)
used to specify the exact location of a feature on a map. Easting and
northings are specified as x,y coordinates receptively for universal
transverse mercator and state plane coordinate systems.
Edit To remove errors from, or to modify a computer file of a program, a
digitized map or a file containing attribute data.
Edge Matching The comparison and graphic adjustment of features that cross
adjoining map sheets to ensure that the features intersect the
boundary at a common, coincident location. A "seamless" database
is thereby created.
Electrostatic Plotter See Dot-matrix plotter.
Electrostatic Printer A "Xerox -like" device for printing graphic images by placing small
electrical charges on the paper so that a dark or colored powder, or
toner, will adhere in these spots.
Element A fundamental geographical unit of information, such as a point,
line, area, or pixel. may also be known as an `entity.'
Encode Convert data to a form that is suitable for entry into a computer.
Entity Object or feature about which information is stored. The
information describes where the entity is (location —stored as points,
lines, or polygons) and what the entity is (identity—e.g., lake, tree,
house). An entity is usually a person, place, thing, or event. It may be
tangible or intangible and can be further defined by attribute data.
Export Process of transferring data or software from one GIS system to
another.
I

extending the results of spatial sampling to points outside
Extrapolation The act of xt g p p g p
i the area surveyed --not recommended.
Feature A geographic component of the earth's surface that has both spatial
r and attribute data associated with it (e.g. well, road, lake)
Feature Oriented The use of points, line, and polygons to represent real world entities
in a GIS database.
Field See item.
Fille A collection of related records in a computer that can be accessed by
a unique name. Files may be stored on tapes or disks.
Filter In raster graphics, a mathematically defined operation for removing
long-range (high-pass) or short range (low-pass) variation. Used for
removing unwanted components from a signal or spatial pattern.
Flatbed Plotter A device for drawing maps whereby the information is drawn by the
plotting head being moved in both the X and Y directions over a
flat, fixed surface. Draws with a pen, light beam, or scribing device.
Floating -Point Board A printed circuit board placed in the CPU in order to speed up
arithmetic operations for real numbers. (The alternative is to use
special software, which is usually much slower).
Floppy Disk See diskette.
Font Symbolism used for drawing a line or representing typefaces used
for displaying text.
Format The way in which data are systematically arranged for transmission
between computers, or between a computer and a device. Standard
format systems are sued for many purposes.
FORTRAN A high-level programming language, much used in computer
(FORmula graphics and CAD/CAM. Recent improvements, embodied in
TRANslation) FORTRAN 77, have made structured programming and
interactive data input much easier.
Fourier Analysis A method of dissociating time series or spatial data into sets of sine
and cosine waves.

a
Fractal An object having a fractional dimension: one which has variation
that is self -similar at all scales, in which the final level of detail is
never reached and never can be reached by increasing the scale at
which observations are made.
G
Gap The distance between two entities (usually lines) on a digitized map.
Gaps may indicate errors made while digitizing or scanning a map.
See sliver.
IGeneralize
A reduction of detail through resampling to larger spacing or a
reduction in the number of points or vertices in a line.
Geocode The process of creating an x,y coordinate location from another
geographic location description, such as an address. The term
evolved from geographic coding.
Geocoding The activity of defining the position of geographical objects relative
to a standard reference grid.
� Geodesy (also Science of the size and shape of the earth.
geodetic, of or
pertaining to
,. geodesy)
Geographic
Values specifying the location of features in a standard, absolute
Coordinates
worldwide coordinate system (e.g., latitude/longitude, state plane
coordinates, universal transverse mercator).
Geographic Data
Data that convey the locations and descriptions of geographic
features.
Geographic
System of computer hardware, software, and procedures designed
Information System
to support the compiling, storing, retrieving, analyzing, and
(GIS)
display of spatially referenced data for addressing planning and
'
management problems. In addition to these technical
components, a complete GIS must also include a focus on people,
organizations, and standards.
Geometric
Alters data to correspond with true ground or image space in a
Correction
known coordinate system.
Geoprocessing
The automated manipulation and/or analysis of geographic data.

G
1
1
1
1,
Georeferencing A process of referencing points on the surface of the earth to points
on a map. Examples of referencing systems include
latitude/longitude, universal transverse mercator, and state plane
coordinates.
GIMMS Geographic Information Manipulation and Mapping Systems. A
well-known, low-cost polygon mapping GIS.
GKS Graphics Kernel System. A set of software primitives for allowing
device -independent graphics programming.
Global Positioning A system that uses NAVSTAR satellites to locate positions on the
System (GPS) earth's surface. Sometimes referred to as global positioning
satellites.
Graphic tablet A small digitizer (usually measuring 11 x 11 inch) used for interactive
work with a GIS or CAD/CAM system.
Grey scales Levels of brightness (or darkness) for displaying information on
monochrome display devices.
Grid 1. A network of uniformly spaced points or lines on the CRT for
locating positions. 2. A set of regularly spaced sample points. 3. In
cartography, an exact set of reference lines over the earth's surface.
4. In utility mapping, the distribution network of the utility
resources, e.g. electricity or telephone lines.
Grid map A map in which the information is carried in the form of grid cells.
See Raster.
Ground control See contml joint and tics.
point
Ground truth To verify the correctness of remote sensing information by use of
ancillary information such as field studies.
Hard Copy An analog image of a map or diagram (e.g., a paper map produced
by a printer or plotter) generated from a digital data set.
Hardware The physical components of a GIS--the computer, plotters, printers,
CRTs and so on.
Hidden Line A technique in three-dimensional perspective graphics for

1
IRemoval
r
I
suppressing the appearance of lines that would ordinarily be
obscured from view.
Hierarchical A method of structuring data or other information so that the units
of data storage database are connected by a hierarchically defined
pathway.
High-level Language A computer programming language using command statements,
symbols and words that resemble English -language statements.
Examples are FORTRAN, PASCAL, C. PL/1, COBOL, BASIC
1 Histogram
I
I
1
A diagram showing the number of samples that fall in each
contiguously defined size class of the attribute studied.
Horizontal control A network of stations of known geographic or grid positions
referenced to a common horizontal datum, which controls the
horizontal positions of mapped features with respect to parallels and
meridians or northing and easting grid lines shown on the map.
Host computer
Hypsometry
1
I
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Initial Graphics
Exchange
Specification (IGES)
Image Processing
Import
The primary, or controlling computer in a data network.
The measurement of the elevation of the earth's surface with respect
to sea level.
An interim standard format for exchanging graphics data between
computer systems.
Computerized routines for information extraction (e.g., pattern
recognition, classification) from remotely sensed images to obtain
categories of information about specific features.
Process of bringing data or software from one system into another.
Infrastructure Human -made systems that provide any or all of the normal public
services to an urban area (e.g., water supply, sewage, utilities, traffic
control).
Ink et Plotter A plotter that creates images b projecting a 'et of ink onto the
J P g yP 1 g l
paper.
Input (Noun) the data entered to a computer system. (Verb) the process of
entering data.
1'

Input Device
A hardware component for data entry: See Digitizer, Keyboard,
'
Scanner, Tape drive
Integer
A number without a decimal component; a means of handling such
numbers in the computer which requires less space and proceeds
more quickly than with numbers having information after the
decimal point.
tInteractive
A GIS system in which the operator can initiate or modify program
execution via an input device and can receive information from the
computer about the progress of the job.
Interactive Graphics
A computer system consisting of a central computer (usually a
minicomputer) and system a number of workstations at which an
operator can draft maps and drawings interactively.
Interface
A hardware and software link that allows two computer systems, or
a computer and its peripherals to be connected together for data
communication.
Interpolate
To estimate the value of an* attribute at an unsampled point from
measurements made at surrounding sites.
Intersection
The coexistence of points at a specific geographic location; the set of
all objects common to two or more intersecting sets.
Intervisibility
Planning tool used for siting features in a landscape through
application of digital functions elevation data. It shows what can be
"seen" from specified target locations. It can map the area visible
from a scenic lookout or the area that can be detected by a radar
antenna. It can show how a road or cleared land can be effectively
'
hidden from view. Sometimes referred to a viewshed modeling or
viewshed mapping.
Island A polygon lying completely within another and not sharing a
common boundary (e.g., an island in a lake).
Isoline Map See uopkth map.
Isopleth Map A map displaying the distribution of an attribute in terms of lines
' (Isoline) connecting points of equal value; See contour, contrast with
Chropleth map.
Item A single attribute descriptor or characteristic of a feature (e.g., an
address for a house in an attribute table that contains information
about houses in a community). Commonly displayed as a column in
an attribute table. Contrast with record.

C
1
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Jaggies Jargon term for curved lines that have a stepped or saw -tooth
appearance on a display device.
Join (Verb) to connect two or more separately digitized maps: (Noun)
The junction between two such maps, sometimes visible as a result
of imperfections in the data.
Joystick A hand -controlled lever for controlling the movements of the cursor
on a graphics CRT.
Justification (right, The relative position of a text string or symbol on the map to the
left, or center) location at which it has been digitized.
K
Key File In some CAD/CAM systems a file containing the codes defining the
operation of certain keyboard functions, or menu commands. In
DBMS, a file containing information about search paths or indexes
used to access data.
Keyboard A device for typing alphanumeric characters into the computer. The
arrangement of the keys resembles that of a typewriter, but often has
more capabilities.
Kriging An interpolation technique for obtaining statistically unbiased
estimates of surface elevations from a set of control points.
Pronounced creeging.
L
Label A unique name or other nominal code assigned to identify the
geographic representation of a map feature. It is distinguished from
attribute data by serving as the unique identifier for geographic
features (e.g., label: Jones Lake; attributes: area, depth, water
quality).
11

1
Labeling
The process of assigning unique labels to polygons.
'
Land Information
A special type of GIS that manages and analyzes data related to
System (LIS)
land ownership (e.g., tax parcels, urban infrastructure, property
assessment). A GIS used for municipal or country level
applications is typically structured as an LIS. Data stored in an LIS
are commonly recorded very accurately on a large-scale map (e.g.,
'
at scales of 1:1,000 to 1:10,000).
Land Record
A document stored in a public file that contains the definitive
statement of some characteristic of a piece of land that is a matter of
'
public interest.
LANDSAT
The generic name for a series of natural resource scanning satellites
launched by the United States beginning in 1972.
Large Scale
A map scale that covers relatively small area on the ground and has a
'
high level of detail. A small area of the earth's surface on one page is
a large-scale map (i.e., a 1:500 map where 1 map unit equals 500
ground units is large scale compared with a 1:1,000,000 map).
'
Contrast with small scale.
Laser Plotter
A plotter in which the information is written onto light-sensitive
material using a laser.
Latitude
A system of referencing relative north -south locations on the earth's
surface. It is measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds north or
south of the equator to the poles.
Layer A logical separation of mapped information representing a theme
(e.g., roads, soils, vegetative cover). Many geographical information
' systems and CAD/CAM systems allow the user to choose and work
on a single layer or any combination of layers at a time.
I
Legend
The part of the drawn map explaining the meaning of the symbols
used to code the depicted geographical elements.
' Line A set of ordered coordinates that represent the shape of a linear
geographic feature. It has a length and direction but no area.
Examples include streams, roads, and telecommunication lines.
Lineage Information about the source of data, its origin, accuracy, and scale
that is normally kept in the data dictionary.
Line Follower A semi -automatic device in which a laser beam is used to trace out
lines from a source map and convert them to digital form.
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Lineprinter A printer that prints a line of characters at a time.
Longitude A system of referencing relative east -west locations on the earth's
surface. It is measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds east or west
of the "Prime Meridian" which runs through Greenwich, England.
Look -Up Table An array of data values that can be quickly accessed by a computer
program to convert data from one form to another, e.g. from
attribute values to colors.
M
Machine A computer.
Machine Language Instructions coded so that the computer can recognize and execute
them.
Macro A text file containing a series of frequently used operations that can
be executed by a single command. Can also refer to a simple high-
level programming language with which the user can manipulate the
commands in a GIS.
Magnetic Media Tape or disks coated with a magnetic surface used for storing
electronic data.
Mainframe A large computer supporting many users.
MAP Map Analysis Package. A computer program written by C. D.
Tomlin for analyzing spatial data coded in the form of grid cells.
Map A two-dimensional abstract graphic representation of the earth's
surface that displays spatial relationships among features, generalizes
their appearance to simplify them for the purpose of
communication, and applies symbols to aid in interpretation.
Map Algebra Process of adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing maps by
applying mathematical operations to map themes. Map algebra
utilities allow the user to specify mathematical relationships between
map layers. For example, a new map can be generated by
determining the difference in elevation between a topographic map
and the corresponding map of the water table.
Map Analysis
See .spatial analysis.

LI
Map Extent The rectangular limits (xmin, ymin, xmanx, x that include all the
features displayed on a graphics display terminal or on a plotted
' map.
Map generalization
The process of reducing detail on a map as a consequence of
reducing the map scale. The process can be semi -automated for
certain kinds of data, such as topographical features, but requires
more insight for thematic maps.
Ma projection
Map
The basic system of coordinates used to describe the spatial
Y P
distribution of elements in a GIS. See projection.
'
Map Theme
See theme.
Mapping Unit
A set of areas drawn on a map to represent a well-defined feature or
set of features. Mapping units are described by the map legend.
'
Mass Storage
Auxiliary, large capacity memory for storing large amounts of data.
Usually magnetic disk or tape.
'
Menu
CAD/CAM: in interactive graphics stations a set of preprogrammed
areas on the digitizing tablet. By entering a digitizer signal from one
of these squares, the use can choose a particular set of commands.
General interactive computing; a list of available options displayed
on the CRT that the user can choose from by using the keyboard or
a device such as a light -pen.
Merge
To take two or more maps or data sets and combine them together
into a single, coherent map or database without redundant
information.
Metadata
See data dictionary.
tMicrocomputer
A small, low cost computer (very often a single -user machine).
Minicomputer
A medium sized, general purpose single processor computer often
used to controlGIS.
Model A set of rules and procedures that represent a view of reality for
conducting spatial analysis to generate a result.
Modeling 1. The representation of the attributes of the earth's surface in a
digital database. 2. The studying of landscape processes using
mathematical algorithms written in computer code.
Modem A device for the interconversion of digital and analog signals to
(MOdulator - allow data transmission over telephone lines.
DEModulator)

Module A separate and distinct piece of hardware or software that can be
connected with other modules to form a system.
Monument A ground surveyed point of known x,y,z coordinates that is assumed
to be correct for general mapping purposes.
Mosaic Process of assembling GIS database files for adjacent areas into a
single file.
Mouse A hand -steered device for entering data from a digitizer. See Puck.
Cursor.
Multispectral A device, often carried in airplanes or satellites, for recording
received radiation scanner system in several wavebands at the same
time. (MSS)
NAD 27 Datum used as the base level for topographic information, as
established by the North American Datum,1927.
NAD 83 Datum used as the base level for topographic information, as
established by the North American Datum,1983.
National Center for A center funded by the National Science Foundation that is jointly
Geographic Information headquartered at the University of California, Santa Barbara, the
And Analysis (NCGIA) University of Maine, Orono, and the State University of New
York at Buffalo. The Center encourages the development of
quality GIS education programs in universities in the United
States and worldwide. It developed a core curriculum; a set of
teaching materials for a three -course sequence in GIS. It also
sponsors workshops, seminars, and meetings and produces
technical publications related to GIS.
Neatline A border line commonly drawn around the extent of a plotted map.
Needs Analysis See urerrrquirementsana#jis.
Neighborhood Analytical technique to determine whether a set of areas
Analysis (polygons) are situated next to each other and to examine their
interrelationships.

Network
1. Two or more interconnected computer systems for the
implementation of specific functions. 2. A set of interconnected
lines (arcs, chains, strings) defining the boundaries of polygons.
Network analysis
Technique used to conduct analyses on a set of point (nodes) and
lines that are connected to each other.
Network database
A method of arranging data in a database so that explicit
'
Structure
connections and relations are defined by links or pointers of a
many -to -many type.
rpoint
Node
A point at which two or more arcs or lines meet. Also the distinct
in a feature where lines begin and end. They are required in
vector GIS to define topology.
'
Noise
Irregular variations, usually short range, that cannot be easily
explained or associated with major mapped features or process.
Northing
See easting.
Numerical
Taxonomy
Quantitative methods for classifying data using computer
estimates of similarity.
0
Object A single, identifiable unit or entity. An object can comprise other,
smaller objects.
1 Object Code A computer program that has been translated into machine readable
code by a compiler.
Object Oriented The intrinsic representation and storage of real world entities in a GIS
database rather than the use of cells, points, lines, or polygons to
' store the object.
ODYSSEY Computer program developed at the laboratory for Computer
' Graphics, Harvard, for overlaying polygon networks.
Operating System (OS) The control program that coordinates all the activities of a computer
system.

r
Optimal Estimator An estimator for minimizing the value of a given criterion function;
' in kriging this is the estimation variance.
Orthophograph An aerial photograph that has the distortion due to tilt, curvature,
and ground relief corrected.
Orthophoto Quad A photomap made from an assembly of orthophotographs.
' Output The results of processing data in a GIS; maps, tables, screen images,
tape files.
' Overlay 1. Programming, the process of replacing a segment of code in the
computer memory. 2. Mapping, the process of stacking digital
representations of various spatial data on top of each other so that
each position in the area covered can be analyzed in terms of these
data.
Overlay Analysis The process of combining spatial information from two or more
maps from the same geographic area to derive a map consisting of
new spatial boundaries and entities or themes.
P.
Paint To fill in an area with a given symbolism on a raster display device
(See Cross -hatch.)
' Pan To widen the view perspective in a graphic display (i.e., "zoom
out").
Parcel See cadastralparcel.
PASCAL A high-level programming language that is been used increasingly
' instead of FORTRAN for scientific programming.
Pen Plotter A device for drawing maps and figures using a computer -steered
• pen.
Pen Plotter A plotter that uses pens as drawing elements.
rPerformance The degree to which a device or system fulfills its specifications.
Peripheral A hardware device that is not part of the central computer.
Pixel Contraction of picture element; smallest unit of information in a grid
cell map or scanner image.

Planimetric Data
Spatial data that do not take topographic relief information into
account for establishing position.
Planimetric Map
A map that represents only the horizontal positions of features. It is
typically used as part of a base map.
'
Plat
A diagram drawn to scale showing all essential data pertaining to the
boundaries and subdivisions of a tract of land. It is often a legal
document.
Plotter
Any device for drawing maps and figures.
Point
A single x,y coordinate that represents a geographic feature that is
too small to be displayed as a line or a polygon at a particular scale.
Map examples include wells, weather stations, and navigational
lights.
Polygon
A multi -sided figure representing an area on a map.
Polynomial
An expression having a finite number of terms of the form
ax+bx2+.nx".
Post -processor
A computer program that is used to convert the results of another
operation into a standard format ready for further analysis.
Precision
1. Degree of accuracy; generally refers to the number of significant
digits of information to the right of the decimal point. 2. Statistical;
the degree of variation about the mean.
Preprocessing
Preliminary processing or transformation of raw data required to
facilitate further cartographic processing.
Principal
P
A method of analyzing multivariate data in order to express their
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Component
variation in a minimum number of principal components or linear
'
Analysis
combinations of the original, partially correlated variables.
Program
A precise sequential set of instructions directing the computer to
'
perform a task.
Projection A mathematical model that transforms the locations of features
(Map Projection) on the earth's surface to locations on a two-dimensional map
surface. Some map projections minimize
distortion of the feature's shape; others minimize distortion of
' area, distance, or direction.
Projection The mathematical transformation of a map from one projection
' Conversion system to another. It is most often used to standardize projections

when maps from two or more projection systems are integrated
into a GIS.
' Proximity Analytical technique used to determine the relationship between a
Analysis selected point and its neighbors.
Proximity Search Analytical procedure to identify occurrences of predefined data
elements in the neighborhood of a selected point or feature.
Puck A hand-held device for entering data from a digitizer. (see Mouse,
Cursor.) Usually has a window with accurately engraved cross -hairs
and several buttons for entering associated data.
Quadrangle Maps A rectangular, or nearly rectangular, area covered by a map. The
(Quads) outline is generally defined by latitude and longitude.
Quadrant A quarter of a circle measured in units of 90 degrees.
Quadratic One in which the highest degree of terms is 2.
(Polynomial)
Quadtree A hierarchical data model that provides a compact raster
representation by using a variable -sized grid cell. Finer subdivisions
are used in areas requiring finer detail, providing a higher level of
resolution. As the map theme becomes more variable or complex, a
quadtree structure is not as efficient as some other data models.
Query Language A high-level programming language, using words that closely
resemble ordinary language, that provides for the easy retrieval of
information.
' Quantize To divide a continuum into a series of discrete steps.
R
' Raster A regular id of cells covering � lm g an area.
Raster Database A database containing all mapped, spatial information in the form of
regular grid cells.

Raster Data
ed in a re d pattern in which each unit (pixel
Cell data arranged regular grid p tt (p e
or cell) in the grid is assigned an identifying value based on its
'
characteristics.
'
Raster Display
A device for displaying information in the form of pixels on a CRT.
Raster map
A map encoded in the form of a regular array of cells.
Raster/Vector
To convert data from raster format to vector format with position
Conversions
and orientation selected by the user. Also known as a raster -to -
vector conversion, or vectorization.
Rasterization
See vector/rasterconverrion.
'
Real Numbers
Numbers that have both an integer and a decimal component.
'
Real Time
Tasks or functions executed so rapidly that the user gets an
impression of continuous visual feedback.
Reclassify
Procedure to change the classification of existing data.
Record
A group of logically related attribute descriptors for one feature e. .,
l;r P In Y P i g
a house in an attribute table that contains information about houses
in a community). It is commonly displayed as a row in a relational
attribute table. Contrast with item.
Rectification
The process of removing the effects of tilt, relief, or other
nonsystematic distortions from imagery, photographs, or maps.
'
Redundancy
The inclusion of data in a database that contribute little to the
information content.
RCfresh Tube
A raster CRT in which the information is continuously refreshed or
redrawn by the electron guns in a manner similar to a normal
television screen. Consequently, refresh tubes can display motion.
Region
A set of loci or points having a certain value of an attribute in
common.
Registration
Process of registering different themes to a common coordinate
'
system or to one theme that is used as a standard so that themes can
be consistently overlaid.
'
Relational Database
A method of structuring data in the form of records so that relations
between different entities and attributes can be used for data access
and transformation.

Relational oin
1
The operation of relating and physically merging two attribute tables
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using a common or relational item.
Relational Operators
Phrases such as "greater than," "less than," "maximum,"
"minimum," and "contains" that are used to compare values
associated -with spatial data.
Remote Sensing
The act of detection and/or identification of an object, series of
objects, or landscape without having the sensor in direct contact
with the object. Often results in the generation of image data. See
also image processing.
Resampling
Technique for transforming a raster image to a particular scale and
projection.
Resolution
The minimum distance between two objects that can be
distinguished by a sensor. While most often it is a synonym for
spatial resolution, it also applies to spectral and temporal aspects of
remote sensing imaging systems.
Response Time
The time that elapses between sending a command to the computer
and the receipt of the results at the workstation.
Routing Analysis A type of network analysis that is used to optimize vehicle routing
(e.g., routing of emergency services, school buses, mail delivery,
municipal garbage collection).
Rubber sheeting A procedure to stretch or shrink a subarea or portion of a map or
image to fit or come into registration. This process is sometimes
called warping. The warp is completed using control points.
Run -length Code A compact method of storing data in raster databases.
Scale
The ratio or fraction between the size of an object on a map and its
size in the real world. A scale represented as 1:15,840 means that one
unit of distance on the map represents 15,840 of the same units of
distance on the earth.
Scale Bar
A map component that graphically depicts the map scale.
Scanner
A device for from from
converting images maps, photographs, or
part of the real world into digital form automatically.

Scanning
Process of using an electronic input device (a scanner) to convert
analog information from maps, photographs, or overlays into a
digital format usable by a computer.
Scroll
To adjust the display window so that the user can view seamless
windows across a display.
Semivariogram
A figure relating the variance of the difference in value of an
attribute at pairs of sample points to separation distance.
Simulation
Using the digital model of the landscape in a GIS for studying the
possible outcome of various processes expressed in the form of
mathematical models.
Sliver
A gap or overlap that is generated by combining two or more
coverages that are not coincident or perfectly conflated.
Slope
The rate of rise or fall of a quantity against horizontal distance. It
may be expressed as a ration, decimal, faction, percentage, or the
'
tangent of the angle of inclination. Contrast with aspect.
Small Scale
A map scale that covers a relatively large area and has generalized
labels. A large area of the earth's surface on one page is a small-scale
map (i.e., a 1:1,000,000 map where 1 map unit equals 1,000,000
ground units is small scale compared with a 1:500 map). Contrast
with large scale.
SmoothingA
set of procedures for removing short -ran a erratic variation from
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lines, surfaces, or data series.
Sna
The automatic intersecting of disjoint lines or nodes that arise when
map data are being digitized or scanned.
Soft Copy
A temporary image of a map or diagram on the screen or a
computer display.
Software
General name for computer programs and programming languages.
Source code A computer program that has been written in an English -like
computer language. It must be compiled to yield the object code
before it can be run on the computer.
Spaghetti Refers to the digitizing of map features without any initial regard
Digitizing to the sequence or identification of line/point intersections.
Spatial Refers to phenomena distributed in ace and therefore having
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physical dimensions and geography.

Analysis
Spatial A y
Analytical techniques associated with the stud
yti q y of the location of
geographical entities together with their spatial dimensions.
Spatial Data
P
Data pertaining to the location, shape, and relationships among
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geographical features. These can be classified and stored as point,
line, area, polygon, grid cell, or object.
Spatial Data
Transfer
Federal information processing standard in the United States for
exchanging digital cartographic files and associated spatial and
Standard
attribute data between GIS systems. The purpose of the standard
(SDTS)
is to ensure that no data will be lost during transfer, that fidelity of
the data and data relationships will be preserved.
Spatial Database
A collection of spatial information related by common facts or
themes.
Spatial Decision
A customized computer -based information system that utilizes
Support System
decision rules and models and incorporates spatial data
(SDSS)
Spatial resolution
A measure of the ability of an imaging system, such as LANDSAT,
to separate the images of closely adjacent objects. It is also the
smallest area identified as a separate mapping unit.
Spike
1. An overshoot line created erroneously by a scanner and its raster -
vector software. 2. An anomalous data point that protrudes above or
below an interpolated surface representing the distribution of the
value of an attribute over an area.
Spline
A mathematical curve used to represent spatial variation smoothly.
SPOT
An earth resource satellite with high resolution sensors launched by
France in January, 1986.
SPOT
The generic name for a series of natural resource scanning satellites
launched by France.
Standards See data standardization.
State Plane A system of xy geographic coordinates defined individually for
Coordinates each state. Locations are based on the distance form a unique
origin for each state or portion of a state.
Stereo pair Two photographs having sufficient perspective overlap to record
parallax of detail to make possible stereoscopic examination of an
object of an area common to both photographs. A three-
dimensional perspective is provided.

Stereo plotter
A device for extracting information about the elevation of landform
from stereoscopic aerial photographs. The results are sets of X, Y,
and Z coordinates.
Steroplotter
A machine which, when loaded with a pair of overlapping aerial
photographs, can be used to determine precise location and altitudes
of objects that appear in the photographs.
Storage
The parts of the computer system used for storing data and
programs. (See Archival storage, Magnetic media).
Storage Tube
A CRT used for displaying maps and graphics information that
retains the image continuously. Commonly green in color, and offers
higher resolution than refresh or raster screens at considerably
higher price. Cannot display motion. Used for
displaying vector -based maps and graphics.
String
A set of X-Y coordinate pairs defining a group of linked line
segments. See also Chain.
SYMAP SYnagraphic MAPping program. The original grid -cell mapping
program developed by Howard T. Fisher at Harvard.
SYMVU A program for drawing perspective views of three-dimensional data.
Syntax A set of rules governing the way statements can be used in a
computer language.
T.
Tablet A small digitizer used for interactive work on a graphics workstation.
Tape drive A device for reading and writing computer files on
magnetic tape.
Tabular Data Data (usually attribute) organized into logical tables. Tables contain
items and records or rows and columns.
Terminal A device, usually including a CRT and a keyboard, for
communicating with the computer.
Terrain Analysis Analytical techniques that quantify terrain parameters (slope, aspect)
or the effect of terrain on a particular operation.
Tesselation The process of splitting an area into small, manageable units or
Isubareas. Subareas may consist of tiles or rasters.

Text Editor
A program for creating and modifying text files.
Thematic Map
A map displaying selected kinds of information relating to specific
themes, such as soil, land -use, population density, suitability for
arable crops and so on. Many thematic maps are also choropleth
maps, but when the attribute mapped is thought to vary
continuously, representation by isolines is more appropriate.
Theme
The overall topic of a map layer in which the spatial variation of a
single phenomenon is illustrated (e.g., a vegetation theme map might
illustrate vegetative areas such as hardwoods, conifers, and sage
brush).
Thinning
A process whereby a line is generalized through a series of rules that
reduce the number of data points while maintaining the basic shape
of the feature. See generalize.
Tics
Geographic control points representing known or identifiable
locations on the earth's surface (e.g., longitude, latitude). Also called
'
ground control points.
Thiessen
See Dirichlet tesselation.
Polygons
TIGER
The nationwide digital database of planimetric base map features
(Topographically
developed by the U.S. Bureau of the Census for the 1990 Census.
Integrated
TIGER files contain street address ranges along lines and census
Geographic
tract and block boundaries.
Encoding and
Referencing file)
Tile
A part of the database in a GIS representing a discreet part of the
earth's surface. By splitting a study area into tiles, considerable
savings in access times and improvements in system performance
can be achieved.
Time Sharing The use of a common CPU by several users in such a way that each
user should be able to feel that he has the whole computer to
himself. Timesharing systems are usually not capable of supporting
the massive computing demands of interactive GIS and CAD/CAM
systems.
Tool A computer program provided within a GIS to allow the user to
perform a specific set of operations on map and attribute data.
Examples of spatial analysis tools include
overlay, window, proximity and network analysis, and map algebra.
�I

I
i
Topographic A map showing the topography (contours, roads, rivers, houses,
Map etc. in great accuracy and detail relative to the map scale.
Topography The shape of the surface of the earth in a given area.
Topology The spatial relationships between connecting or adjacent coverage
features (e.g., points, lines, and polygons). It provides a way in which
geographic features are linked together.
Topological How data elements relate to each other within the database.
Relationships Changing one element affects other elements.
Topological Organizing data topologically so that the relationships and
Structuring references linkages are specified.
Tracker Ball An interactive, hand -controlled device for positioning the cursor on
a CRT.
Transect A set of sampling points arranged along a straight line.
Transfer Function A mathematically defined method of transferring spatial data from
one projection to another.
Transform The process of changing the scale, projection, or orientation of a
mapped image. Sometimes refers to the conversion of data from one
GIS system to another.
Triangulated A data structure that describes a three-dimensional surface as a
Irregular series of irregularly shaped triangles. Often used in connection
Network with terrain modeling where terrain characteristics are determined
(TIN) from sets of irregularly distributed points.
Tuple
A set of values of attributes pertaining to a given item in a database.
Also known as a `record'.
Turn -key system A GIS or CAD/CAM system of hardware and software that is
designed, supplied, and supported by a single manufacturer ready for
use for a given class of work.
Universal A system of plane coordinates based upon 60 north -south
Transverse trending zones, each 6 degrees of longitude wide, that circle the
Mercator globe. Used to derive geographic coordinates, normally in meters,
(UTM) east and north of an origin that are defined uniquely grid for each

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UNIX A modem, general purpose operating system.
User interface Method by which the human operator communicates with the
various database, system, and applications modules.
User A strategic planning approach for implementing a GIS. Provides a
Requirements comprehensive assessment of the analytical capabilities and products
Analysis required by potential system users. Sometimes called needs analysis.
Utility A term for system capabilities and features for processing data.
Utility A special class of GIS applications for managing information about
Mapping public utilities such as water pipes, sewerage, telephone, electricity, and
gas networks.
V
Vector A quantity having both magnitude and direction.
Vector Data Data comprised of x-y coordinate representations of locations on
the earth that take the form of single points, strings of points (lines
or arcs), or closed lines (polygons).
Vector See Storage tube.
Display
Terminal
Vector A means of coding line and area information in the form of units of data
Graphics expressing magnitude, direction, and connectivity.
Structure
Vector/raster To convert data from vector or point formats to raster format with grid
Conversions cell size, position, and orientation selected by the user. It is also known as
a vector -to -raster conversion, or rasterization.
Vectorization
See ratter/vector conversion.
Vertex Plural vertices. Intermediate points along a line curve, or arc. They
represent the critical points of inflection along the arcs, thereby
reflecting its shape.
View Port A user -selected window through which part of the map database can
be interactively accessed.
I

Viewshed See inteni bility functions.
Modeling
1 Visual Display A terminal with a CRT.
Unit (VDU)
W
Warping See rubber sheeting.
Weighted An average value of an attribute computed for a point from the values at
Moving surrounding data points taking account of their distance or importance.
Average
s Weighting Process of systematically increasing the value of a particular data
element or elements so as to give that element more significance in
1 the analysis or calculations.
Window A user -defined area that is used to view a subset of the original map.
Word A set of bits (typically 16 or 32) that ocFupies a single storage
location and is treated by the computer as a unit of information.
v
Workstation The desk, keyboard, digitizing table, and CRTs connected together
as a unit for working with maps or graphics in interactive GIS and
CAD CAM.
Workstation A computer that consists of a graphic terminal, central processor,
digitizer, graphics tablet (optional), and a mouse (optional). It may
also be a stand-alone central processing unity (CPU) and its
peripheral devices. It is often linked to other computers through a
network.
Z coordinate The attribute coordinate in a data triplet is often used for
representing height or elevation in a three-dimensional x,y,z
coordinate system.
Zero The origin of all coordinates defined in an absolute system. Where X
Y, and Z axes intersect.

Zoom Used in phrases "zoom in," meaning to enlarge the scale of a display
to see more detail, and "zoom out," meaning to decrease the scale to
see a more overall view. See pan and scrv&
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— 46 �'. LAND CLASSIFICATION MAP
:
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aq ll!M luawdolanap ayi to isow 'saolA
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puel uayM •sall!Iedlolunw ayi aP!sino
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NOinnaOblNl
/'
<, �_. ;�
_ - . �` i__ _- a
A SUMMARY
OF THE
CARTERET COUNTY
LAND USE PLAN
prepared by
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL
RESOURCES AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
with assistance from
THE CARTERET COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT
1978
This report was financed in part by the National
Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration and
the State of North Carolina, and meets the re-
quirements of the North Carolina Coastal Area
Management Act of 1974.
Areas. These land development objec-
tives can be achieved through:
1. Emphasizing the importance of
county land use regulations (zoning
ordinance, subdivision regulations,
group housing ordinance, outer
banks land protection ordinance,
and mobile home park ordinance,
and flood plain regulations). These
regulations should be developed
and adopted in accordance with
the stated objectives of this land
development plan.
2. Proper use of the land classification
system provided in this land devel-
opment plan.
3. Emphasis on inspection and en-
forcement procedures.
III. Economic Objectives
To develop an effective program to provide
better job opportunities and increase per-
sonal income for all citizens of Carteret
County, without significantly affecting the
traditional way of life so important to the
citizens of Carteret County. It is hoped this
objective can be achieved by:
A. Continued emphasis on tourism as a
major source of income for Carteret
County. It should be noted that efforts
should be closely coordinated with all
local governments and organizations
within the county involved in tourist
related activities. These interests in-
clude:
1. Sport Fishing
2. Hotel and Motel Service
3. Restaurants
4. Retail stores relying basically on
tourist business
5. Other retail interests and services
that help support these interests
and other tourist related business
(for example the construction in-
dustry).
B. Development of plans identifying areas
to accommodate retail trade and ser-
vices for the expanding population of
Carteret County, and those who visit
Carteret County. Land use regulations
should be coordinated with the muni-
cipalities so as to assure proper devel-
opment of retail trade and services.
C. Encourage additional import and ex-
port tonnage through the Port at
Morehead City. This can be done by
efforts to monitor the needs of imports
and exports within North Carolina, and
coordination with the port of Wilming-
ton to assure the most effective use of
both facilities.
D. Emphasize and encourage improved
transportation facilities. This includes
highways and roads, the Beaufort -
Morehead Airport, and freight services
within the County.
E. Encourage and assist in providing im-
proved navigational channels in the
County. This includes the Intracoastal
Waterway, the "Deep Water Channel"
for the port, and other service chan-
nels where economically justified. This
will improve all economic activities in
decisions which will affect the future of the
County — both ecologically and economically.
It is apparent that the decision to do nothing
and let nature take its course will eventually be
countered at either the State or Federal level,
or both. From strictly a health standpoint, the
quality of water cannot be allowed to diminish
to the point that it is no longer usable.
Until such time as central sewage treatment
facilities become available to the most sensitive
areas, (Bogue Banks, Bogue Sound and along
the rivers), the County needs to implement a
series of actions which will aid in protecting
water quality. These actions include, but are
not limited to the following:
1. Provide lower density requirements
through large -lot zoning in the identified
sensitive areas.
2. Adopt strict local septic tank regulations.
3. Strict enforcement of septic tank regula-
tions.
4. Adopt and enforce strict sedimentation
control to eliminate as much as possible
runoff from construction projects. Also,
some means of controlling agricultural
runoff needs to be put forth.
5. Strict enforcement of subdivision ordi-
nances in the towns and County.
6. Strict enforcement of the Dunes Protec-
tion ordinance.
7. Require some form of environmental im-
pact assessment prior to each new project
begun in the County or town.
Most of the foregoing actions are already at
the County's disposal. Only more strict en-
forcement is needed to improve the situation.
All of the foregoing recommendations are
presently available to the County and towns to
adopt as ordinances to enforce.
FUTURE GROWTH
Public participation received throughout the
early planning process has indicated most resi-
dents are pleased with the nature of the County
and do not care to see drastic changes in popu-
lation. In most cases, low to moderate increases
in population were indicated as desirable.
The desired growth rate is as follows:
Year 1975 1 1980 1 1985 1 2000 1 2025
Population 35,000 1 39,550 1 44,100 1 56,600 1 70,000
In ten years, the County's permanent popula-
tion is expected to increase by 9,100 people.
The seasonal population of Bogue Banks during
the next 10 years is expected to go from 25,000
in 1975 to 37,000 people.
It should be pointed out that the expected
population 50 years from now is 70,000 people.
However, if built-in growth factors such as the
number of vacant lots and present zoning den-
sities are examined, it appears that potential
growth could actually double the expected
population of 70,000. In order to keep the pop-
ulation increases as near to the desired goal as
possible, the County and the towns need to
take steps to curtail the potential increases.
One possible way of doing this would be to
change present zoning ordinances to allow for
less density, especially in those areas not ex-
pected to have sewer services.
In order for the expected growth to occur, it
will be necessary to provide a higher level of
services than is presently being provided. Since
the County including commercial and
industrial activities in general, and in
particular, the tourist industry.
F. Increase efforts to attract non -offen-
sive industry that will provide better
job opportunities and personal income
for citizens of the County. The Intra-
coastal Waterway and the railroad ser-
vice in the County should be empha-
sized as potential assets for industry,
and land use regulations should be
used to protect desirable industrial lo-
cations.
G. Continue to emphasize agriculture and
livestock production throughout the
County. This can be done in some of
the following ways:
1. Continued efforts to assure that the
deferred tax incentive is under-
stood.
2. Emphasize the importance of the
Agriculture Extension Service and
Soil Conservation Service within
the County. They are able to help
evaluate the proper use of farm
land, and can help with production
methods and marketing.
3. Try to pinpoint productive areas
that are not being farmed at the
present time through the use of the
comprehensive soil survey (now in
progress), and the professionals
within the Agriculture Extension
Service and the Soil Conservation
Service.
H. Encourage and promote the commer-
cial fishing industry within the County
through:
1. Land management that will help
preserve the productivity of the
estuarine waters within Carteret
County.
2. Help coordinate the interests of the
local commercial fishermen with
regional organizations such as the
food service extension services of
North Carolina State University.
This can be done through the
County Planning Department and
the Carteret County Economic De-
velopment Council.
IV. Service Objectives
Provide these services desired by the citi-
zens of Carteret County so as to improve
the living conditions of all citizens of the
Cou nty.
A. Encourage the development of a re-
gional water and sewer plan and its im-
plementation.
B. Encourage and strive for the develop-
ment and improvement of recreational
opportunities and facilities for citizens
of all ages. This can be done through
close attention to the Carteret County
Recreational plan and its proper imple-
mentation.
C. To provide for the protection of the
County's dunes system on Bogue
Banks. This is to be done by providing
adequate crossovers for access to
beach areas. Where feasible, the
County, with the assistance of the
a majority of the people are expected to locate
on Bogue Banks, it will be necessary to provide
central water and sewer facilities to keep from
creating potential health hazzrds. In addition to
water and sewer services, highway upgrading
will be necessary. The main road on Bogue
Banks is not designed to handle peak seasonal
traffic at the present time, let alone future in-
creases in traffic volume. Also, the idea of addi-
tional access to Bogue Banks may be necessary.
Although population growth may mean
prosperity for an area, it can be costly to tax-
payers. The demand for services will place
additional burdens on taxpayers and if devel-
opment is not well planned, the County will
ultimately suffer from loss of natural amenities.
It is up to the people of Carteret County to
determine if growth is to occur with little or no
restraint. This decision will determine what
additional costs will be paid by the people of
the County.
LAND CLASSIFICATION
The land Classification Map is the heart of
the Plan. It is a statement of County policy re-
garding future growth and therefore, the use of
land and water resources. Specifically, the map
indicates: where new development should take
place; the general kind of development it
should be; and, how much development
should be encouraged over the next ten years.
The Land Classification Map is intended to
improve County government in several ways:
(1) the state and federal governments are re-
quired to respect the County's development
objectives as expressed in the plan; (2) the
county will be better able to evaluate the ef-
fects of large-scale developments; (3) the
County will be in a stronger legal position to
enforce its zoning and subdivision regulations,
to improve its tax program, and to employ oth-
er modern development controls.
Briefly, the Land Classification system works
like this: All land in the County is placed into
one of five classes according to its ability to
handle growth, and according to the County's
ability to provide the public services needed by
that development (water and sewer, police and
fire protection, etc.).
The five classes are defined as follows:
DEVELOPED — Lands where existing popula-
tion density is moderate to high; and where
there are a variety of land uses which have the
necessary public services, including water and
sewer.
TRANSITION — Lands where local government
plans to accommodate moderate to high densi-
ty development during the following ten-year
period. Water and sewer and other public ser-
vices will be provided to accommodate that
growth.
COMMUNITY — Lands where low denisty
development is grouped in existing settle-
ments, or will occur in such settlements during
the next ten years, and will not require exten-
sive public services now or in the future.
RURAL — Lands whose highest use for agricul-
ture, forestry, mining, water supply, etc., based
on their natural resource potential.
CONSERVATION — Fragile, hazardous and
other lands necessary to maintain a healthy nat-
towns, will attempt to provide parking
facilities at selected areas along Bogue
Banks with crossovers provided near-
by. Crossovers are an inexpensive
method of preserving the valuable
dunes system which protects the main-
land during storm surges.
D. Encourage and emphasize fire, police
and rescue services for all citizens of
Carteret County. All of these services
should be analyzed and expanded as
the population increases.
E. Encourage and emphasize the solid
waste disposal program through:
1. Proper landfill management.
2. Proper collection procedures.
3. Proper equipment and landfill site
planning so as to cut unnecessary
costs.
V. Government Objectives
Strive for the development of an effective
long-range County planning process
through:
A. Improvement of channels for citizen
participation by the continued use of
public participation techniques used in
the development of this plan.
1. Public meetings conducted by
elected and appointed officials.
2. Questionnaires
3. Advisory committees
B. The development of methods of coor-
dinating planning efforts with all local
governments within Carteret County.
C. The development of better methods of
coordinating planning efforts on a re-
gional basis.
D. The updating of all County land use
regulations in accordance with this
land development plan.
E. Striving for proper enforcement of
land use regulations. This should in-
clude proper emphasis on assuring
land use regulations which reflect the
desires of the citizens, as well as em-
phasis on proper training for all en-
forcement officers.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION EFFORTS
Once these objectives, policies, and stand-
ards are determined, they should serve as a
guide with which to classify land areas to indi-
cate potential levels of development, as well as
to clearly establish priorities for action during
the planning period.
Due to the importance of this basic portion
of the planning process, a great deal of effort
has been exerted toward obtaining public com-
ment. It seems appropriate at this point to de-
scribe the public participation process and
summarize the comments received. The pur-
pose of this section is to demonstrate the basis
for establishing major issues, objectives, poli-
cies, and standards contained within the plan.
The alternatives that were considered are also
discussed.
The Carteret County Planning Department
used several methods of obtaining public parti-
cipation in the planning process for this land
development plan.
A. There were a total of 21 public meetings
conducted throughout the County in an
ural environment and necessary to provide for
the public health, safety or welfare. These lands
should be maintained in essentially their natur-
al state.
The Classification Map indicates that most of
the Development Land will occur in and
around the existing towns. Additional growth,
Transition classification, occurs on the outskirts
of the municipalities and in the County areas
on Bogue Banks. Most of the growth is expect-
ed to occur around the towns, with more Com-
munity and Rural land uses expected to occur
in the County areas.
AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN
(AECs)
Carteret County contains land and water
areas which are especially sensitive to develop-
ment. They are physically or biologically fragile
and could easily be damaged or destroyed by
poorly -planned or inappropriate development.
Listed below are the kinds of fragile areas
found in Carteret and the types of uses which
may be made of them. "The intent of AECs is
not to stop development, but rather to ensure
the compatibility of development with the con-
tinued productivity and value of certain critical
land and water areas."
COASTAL WETLANDS
Highest priority of use shall be allocated to
the conservation of existing coastal wetlands.
Second priority shall be given to those types of
development activities that require water ac-
cess and cannot function elsewhere. Lowest
priority will include restaurants and businesses;
residences, apartments, motels, hotels and
trailer parks; parking lots and offices, spoil and
dump sites; wastewater lagoons; public and
private roads and highways; and factories.
ESTUARINE WATERS
Highest priority of use shall be allocated to
the conservation of estuarine waters and their
vital components. Uses of second priority in es-
tuarine waters shall include those types of de-
velopment activities that require water access
such as simple access channels; structures to
prevent erosion; navigation channels; and boat
docks, piers, wharfs, and mooring pilings. Low-
est priority is allocated to those uses that would
adversely impact important marine grass beds;
spawning and nursery areas of valuable estu-
arine dependent species; important nesting,
feeding, and wintering sites of waterfowl and
wildlife.
PUBLIC TRUST AREAS
Highest priority will be allocated to uses that
enhance the rights of the public within public
trust areas. Second priority will be given to nav-
igational channels, drainage ditches, the use of
bulkheads to prevent erosion and the building
of piers, wharfs, or marinas. Lowest priority is
given to projects which would directly or indi-
rectly block or impair existing navigation chan-
nels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils
below mean high tide, cause adverse water cir-
culation patterns, violate. water quality stand-
ards, or cause degradation of shellfish waters.
attempt to involve individuals from all 16
townships.
B. Questionnaires were distributed at each
public meeting in order to stimulate dis-
cussion and to firm up some basic levels
of public participation.
C. Ideas were also solicited from a 13 mem-
ber advisory commission made up of a
cross section of Carteret County resi-
dents.
D. The Carteret County Planning Depart-
ment also reviewed the results of the
public participation process for all of the
municipalities within the County.
WILL THE LAND SUPPORT THE PEOPLE?
Future planning must recognize that physical
limits exist at which certain levels of human
activity will lead to undesirable and unaccept-
able degradations of the environment. This
concept is called "carrying capacity."
In the coastal areas, the detrimental effects of
sewage disposal on ground and surface water
resources represent an important example of
physical limitations on development. Up to a
certain density, the land is capable of absorbing
human waste from onsite sewage disposal sys-
tems without adverse effects on the quality of
ground and surface waters within the area.
After that density is reached, any increased de-
velopment results in lowering the quality of
ground and surface waters.
At this point, a choice of alternatives for
handling the situation are apparent. These al-
ternatives include limiting further increases in
density, putting money and energy into provid-
ing alternative methods of waste disposal, or
tolerating the lower water quality as an accept-
able "cost" of further development. Unfortu-
nately, many people prefer the last of these
alternatives, with little regard to degradation of
environmental aspects necessary for the quality
of life.
It is clear that at some point density must be
regulated or the quality of water will be low-
ered. This is especially true under present con-
ditions in most of Carteret County, and particu-
larly Bogue Banks, where individual wells and
septic tank systems predominate.
The choice of alternatives is further compli-
cated by the fact that the financial costs of alter-
native systems, even public sewerage facilities,
are high and there exists a general lack of mon-
ey to finance the projects. The amount of
growth related sewerage facilities which will be
funded by EPA is strictly limited under existing
regulations; and State Clean Water Bond Act
monies have effectively already been allocated
or expended. Therefore, Carteret County must
recognize the very real possibility and at a time
when outside financing is decreasing.
The significance of this discussion of carrying
capacity is how it relates to Carteret County.
Based on prior discussion of potential popula-
tion increases in the County, it can readily be
seen that current conditions will not allow dou-
bling or quadrupling the population of Carter-
et County without adversely affecting the qual-
ity of the water. This is especially true on Bogue
Banks and areas immediately adjacent to the
sounds and rivers.
Carteret County is faced with making certain
ESTUARINE SHORELINES
Highest priority of use shall be allocated to
recreational, rural and conservation activities in
those shoreline areas exhibiting a significant
erosion rate. High priority shall also be given to
water access and shoreline protection, provid-
ed that public resources will not be detrimen-
tally affected. Second priority of land use shall
be given to proposals which illustrate a sound
understanding of the management principles
of this dynamic and susceptible zone. Lowest
priority shall be allocated to major public facili-
ties that would promote growth in areas where
a substantial possibility of excessive public ex-
penditures for maintaining the use of the facili-
ty may result or the facility would result in a loss
of significant private resources. Proposed de-
velopment that may harm estuarine resources
or cause damage to riparian properties will also
receive lowest priority.
OCEAN BEACHES
Highest priority shall be allocated to recrea-
tional uses that maintain the high quality of the
beach while providing access to public
beaches. Lowest priority is given to land uses
involving the construction of permanent or
substantial structures.
FRONTAL DUNES
Highest priority shall be allocated to the
preservation of frontal dunes. Lowest priority
will be given to development that would in-
volve the removal or relocation of frontal dune
sand or vegetation.
INLET LANDS
Highest priority shall be given to uses that do
not involve the construction of substantial
structures. Lowest priority will be allocated to
major public facilities that promote develop-
ment.
OCEAN ERODIBLE AREAS
Highest priority shall be allocated to recrea-
tional and other nonstructural uses. Lowest
priority shall be given to structures for com-
mercial or institutional purposes that encour-
age growth in these hazardous areas.
IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation is the means by which the
plan is carried out, or made to work. Carteret
County has already adopted several of the most
important implementation tools including a
zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations and
a dunes protection ordinance.
The permit system for development in Areas
of Environmental Concern and the public in-
vestment philosophy fostered by the Land Clas-
sification System will be major new tools exer-
cised jointly by the County and the State.
PLAN REVISIONS
The Coastal Area Management Act requires
local governments to update their plans every
five years. This is to account for changing con-
ditions, new technology and your opinions on
any subsequent issues. Your constant participa-
tion in the planning process is needed; not just
every five years, but as a continuous voice in a
changing community.