TPL Honored for Exceptional Work Using GIS Technology

SAN FRANCISO, CA, 8/24/2006: This July, The Trust for Public Land was announced as a recipient of a 2006 “Special Achievement in GIS” Award for its outstanding use of geographic information system (GIS) technology. ESRI, the world leader in GIS software, presented the award at the Twenty-sixth Annual ESRI International User Conference in San Diego, California, before thousands of GIS professionals.

TPL is the nation’s only land conservation organization dedicated to conserving land for people to enjoy as parks and open space.

“The SAG awards celebrate the achievement and vision of innovators in the GIS field,” says Jack Dangermond, ESRI president. “Each winner brings benefits to their communities and influences others to do the same.”

This award is being given to user sites around the world in recognition of their outstanding work in the GIS field. The Trust for Public Land was selected to receive this prize from over 100,000 user sites worldwide.

GIS is a computer-based mapping tool that takes database information about a location, including streets, buildings, water features, and terrain, and turns it into visual layers. The ability to see and analyze geographic features on a map gives users a better understanding of a particular location, enabling planners, analysts, and others to make informed decisions about their communities, the environment, and businesses. This innovative technology brings countless benefits to the world through a geographic lens.

“Through the innovative use of GIS technologies, TPL is helping communities define and protect the places they play through a common vision based on a collaborative approach,” said Breece Robertson, TPL’s National GIS Director.

Founded in 1972 as real estate non-profit specializing in conservation transactions, TPL began utilizing GIS in 2001 to serve cities and counties seeking to identify priority landscapes for conservation. TPL uses GIS to help communities create Greenprints using electronic mapping and modeling. Results are distributed via strategic analysis reports, cartographic outputs and interactive Internet applications.

“The combination of our creative team, collaboration with partners and the use of GIS sets TPL apart in getting to conservation on the ground that reflects the inherent qualities of a place and is driven by community consensus.” said Robertson. “We are honored to be recognized by ESRI and thank them for their ongoing commitment to making data come alive.”

The Trust for Public Land, established in 1972, specializes in conservation real estate, applying its expertise in negotiations, public finance, and law to protect land for people to enjoy as parks, greenways, community gardens, urban playgrounds, and wilderness. TPL depends on the support of individuals, corporations, and foundations. For more information on Conservation Services, visit TPL on the web at www.tpl.org/services.