Message from AGIC Chair:

Over the past decade or so, governmental agencies, educational institutions, and private industry in the State of Alabama have developed increasingly powerful computer-based systems designed for digital mapping and processing geographic information.  The technology employed, collectively referred to as Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, has the potential for long term economic and societal benefits to the State of Alabama and its citizens by significantly increasing efficiency, increasing revenue potential, and reducing costs in a variety of areas and for a number of diverse applications.  GIS technology can be used strategically as a decision making tool in such areas as water, air, agricultural, energy, cultural, land, and mineral resources; environmental management; forestry; geology; public health; local government services; planning; public safety; social services; transportation; utilities; waste management; and wildlife conservation and management.

Recognizing the potential benefits to be gained through cooperative and coordinated development of the GIS technology in Alabama, Former Governor Don Siegelman established the Alabama Geographic Information Council (AGIC) by issuing Executive Order No. 68.  The members of AGIC represent various agencies of the State of Alabama, regional and local government, all levels of education, State boards of professional licensure, and the private sector. The duties and mandates of AGIC include the following:

· Recommend goals, objectives, and a strategic management plan to guide the development and implementation of GIS technology for the best value and benefit of the citizens of Alabama.

· Assess all current geographic information available for the State of Alabama and make recommendations to reduce inefficiency and redundancy in geographic information collection.

· Recommend policies and strategies which emphasize cooperation and coordination among state agencies, federal agencies, environmental agencies, regional planning agencies, municipalities, counties, academic institutions, nonprofit organizations, utilities, private companies, and individuals, and other states in order to maximize the cost efficiency.

· Recommend a strategy for funding and development of an accurate, current digital basemap for the state that includes commonly needed geographic information themes, including the seven framework data layers as defined by the Federal Geographic Data Committee - roads, streams, orthorectified digital aerial photography, elevation, political boundaries, cadastre (parcel ownership), and geodetic control.

Former Governor Seigelman received a copy of the report produced by the AGIC to review for further action. As Chairman of AGIC, I invite you to participate with us in the process of mapping Alabama's future through development and use of this exciting technology.  Please contact either myself or other AGIC members for details on how to become involved.

Pete Conroy
Chairman, AGIC