UC Cooperative Extension announced on Apr. 2 that it will offer a hands-on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) training workshop for foresters and natural resource managers in Santa Cruz on July 20 and 21. The two-day event is designed for practitioners who use GIS and are seeking expert guidance, updates, or assistance with integrating local natural resource data into their planning and decision-making.
The workshop aims to provide technical skills in cartography, data management, ArcGIS Online, and topics suggested by participants. It will include exercises based on forest and natural resources management applications as well as demonstrations of terrestrial lidar use in forestry. New GIS extension tools developed for the Santa Cruz Mountains will also be shared during the sessions.
In addition to structured exercises, there will be an open session where attendees can bring their own data and hardware to work directly with UC experts from the Informatics and GIS Program. Computers are provided but space is limited; participants are encouraged to bring personal laptops if they have ArcGIS installed. Registration is required as only 20 spots are available.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources secures funding through public contributions to support its programs, according to the official website. The organization promotes sustainable practices intended to strengthen resilient ecosystems while supporting economic vitality according to its official website. It utilizes nine research and extension centers representing California’s diverse ecosystems according to the official website.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources has gained recognition for providing trusted services that link research with community needs according to its official website. As part of the University of California system, it manages Cooperative Extension services across all counties in the state according to its official website. Each year, it conducts more than 33,000 educational events involving over 18,000 volunteers according to the official website.
UC Agriculture and Natural Resources extends university research statewide through educational programs focused on sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. According to the official website, these efforts mobilize volunteers and leverage research centers throughout all 58 counties.