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Earth Data Analysis Center (EDAC) at The University of New Mexico (UNM) develops, manages, and enhances the New Mexico Resource Geographic Information System (RGIS) Program and Clearinghouse. Nationally, NM RGIS is among the largest of state-based programs for digital geospatial data and information and continues to add to its data offerings, services, and technology. The RGIS Program mission is to develop and expand geographic information and use of GIS technology, creating a comprehensive GIS resource for state and local governments, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and private businesses; to promote geospatial information and GIS technology as primary analytical tools for decision makers and researchers; and to provide a central Clearinghouse to avoid duplication and improve information transfer efficiency. As a repository for digital geospatial data acquired from local and national public agencies and data created expressly for RGIS, the clearinghouse serves as a major hub in New Mexico’s network for inter-agency and intergovernmental coordination, data sharing, information transfer, and electronic communication. Data sets available for download include political and administrative boundaries, place names and locations, census data (current and historical), 30 years of digital orthophotography, 80 years of historic aerial photography, satellite imagery, elevation data, transportation data, wildfire boundaries and natural resource data.

NASA Earth Observatory Image of the Day for August 9, 2016. Page discusses Firecast—a system to monitor and deliver alerts for active fires, fire risk, and deforestation in the tropics. The project’s web site and mobile application bring NASA satellite data to fire managers in areas that have traditionally relied on ground-based monitoring. Users can view maps of active fires, download daily fire risk forecasts, read reports of local fire activity, and see current activity in context with historical data.

Interactive maps from the National Integrated Drought Information System. Drought is one of many factors that can affect the intensity and severity of a fire. Dry, hot, and windy weather combined with dried out (and more flammable) vegetation can increase the potential for large-scale wildfires. Use the interactive map below to explore wildfire, smoke, and air quality data alongside drought and climate conditions. Drought can have significant impacts on water utility operation, including loss of water supply, poor source water quality, increased costs, and reduced revenues. Use the interactive map below to explore water supply data (streamflow, river forecasts, snow water equivalent) alongside drought and climate conditions. Drought can have significant direct and indirect economic impacts on the agricultural sector, reducing the water availability and water quality necessary for productive farms, ranches, and grazing lands. Use the interactive map below to explore agricultural commodities data alongside drought and climate conditions.

A collection of web tools for visualizing past and projected climate and hydrology of the contiguous United States of America addressing questions relating to Agriculture, Climate, Fire Conditions, and Water.

Overview of current wildfires, using data from the National Wildfire Coordinating Group, National Interagency Fire Center, and FEMA demographic exposure analysis.