Gulf of Mexico Estuaries Integrated Science Workshop

An Integrated Science Strategy for USGS Research in Gulf of Mexico Estuaries
January 23-26, 2001, St. Petersburg, Florida

Efficient information and data distribution requires the development of a Database Information Management System (DIMS). This information system can be used as an outreach tool, targeting the public interest in Gulf of Mexico’s coastal resources, and as a management tool to fulfill data distribution objectives. This system should:

1) Provide efficient means of data distribution for federal, state, university, and other personnel participating in Gulf of Mexico Integrated Science,

2) Facilitate communication among the Gulf of Mexico Integrated Science participants, providing access to draft data and sensitive information,

3) Maintain a convenient, user-friendly multimedia system that offers current, accurate information in a timely manner to Gulf of Mexico stakeholders, decision makers, scientists, and the public.

An internet-based system makes wide-scale distribution possible. Data sets, reports, maps and presentations will be available for downloading over the web. A secure portion of the site will allow managers to relay information, quickly obtain data, and follow program developments. Limited access will help preserve data integrity. As the recognized reference source for Gulf of Mexico Integrated Science information, the system will allow scientists to eliminate repetition of work and time-consuming outside searches while providing uniform data among partners.

The development of the Database Information Management System will require the coordination of many agencies and personnel to effectively accomplish the objective above. This system will span physical separation to give partners a shared workspace, increase efficiency, and save time and money. DIMS will include a Decision Support and Query System (DSQS) that will consist of:

a) a GIS component to manage and manipulate spatial data using an interactive map server;

b) a database component to manage, manipulate, and catalog non-spatial information;

c) a web-based multi-medium distribution mechanism to provide simplified data and information access to decision-makers and the general public; and

d) a query system (web enabled) for display/delivery of USGS Integrated Science Program efforts.

Products including databases, query systems, maps, fact sheets, open file reports, science articles, predictive models, etc. will be made available through the Gulf of Mexico Integrated Science web-site. Construction of this web-site is underway. The web-site will provide access to general and specific information, data bases, interactive data integration tools, etc. Information presented on the site, web-site navigation, and product display will emphasize integrated science efforts. Information will be addressed to a broad audience consisting of scientists, managers, decision makers, and the general public.

This web-site will provide the foundation for access to knowledge and information from all USGS Gulf of Mexico Estuaries and other Gulf of Mexico efforts, and relevant external efforts. The site will develop and evolve as information from other investigations is compiled. The Gulf of Mexico Integrated Science (GOMIS) web-site can be accessed at http://gulfsci.usgs.gov.