Kentucky GIS Conference 2024

This study examines urban expansion and vegetation loss in Enugu State, driven by intense surface mining activities. Significant land use and land cover (LULC) changes have occurred over recent decades due to human activities and natural factors. Using Remote Sensing and GIS, the research analyzes Landsat imagery from 2018 to 2022 to quantify urban growth and vegetation loss. The study employs the maximum likelihood classification algorithm to categorize data into five land cover classes: Water, Forest, Pasture/Grass, Barren, and Urban. This classification calculates average rates of change for each land cover type, revealing urbanization and vegetation reduction patterns. Findings show a significant land use shift, with increased urban areas and reduced agricultural and forested lands, indicating deforestation and land degradation. The study underscores the need for improved environmental monitoring and sustainable practices, providing resources for stakeholders in Enugu State.

Join Jeff for a discussion of the various vertical datums of the National Spatial Reference System (NSRS), targeted for the floodplain manager, but great for anyone who works with 3D data analysis.  We will review terminology, some technical history of the superseded vertical datum NGVD29, how the current vertical datum NAVD88 is different, and the forthcoming new datum NAPGD2022.  Vertical datum transformations (aka conversions), and tools available from NGS to do that, will be explained along with an overview of FEMA's Vertical Datum Conversion guidance document.

Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), and extended reality (XR) tools are quickly evolving, and they are becoming integrated into AEC workflows. JMT has explored the use of VR and AR tools including iTwins.js, vGIS, and SiteLink and identifying how they can add value to AEC projects. These tools aggregate and transform spatial data (BIM, GIS, and Lidar) onto a view frame on your mobile device. Through integration with high resolution GPS, this data is accurately juxtaposed onto your screen simply by pointing your device at the project area. Join JMT in exploring AR and VR tools and learn about the benefits that these tools offer. We will discuss various use cases including utility conflict detection, digital as-built development/confirmation, clash detection, and project field documentation with key learnings from our experiences. Attendees will walk away with ideas for how they can leverage AR and VR tools and best practices to follow.

The KyFromAbove initiative has published abundant high-quality lidar data that has revolutionized our ability to capture and analyze topographic information at unprecedented levels of detail. This talk presents a unique approach to visualizing and quantifying above-ground surface changes using digital surface models (DSMs) derived from temporally distinct point clouds. We use Python, ArcPy, and Map Algebra to demonstrate a robust methodology for analyzing these complex datasets, revealing subtle landscape alterations that were previously challenging to detect and measure. 

This study compares socioeconomic status and health-related quality indicators between coal-mined and non-coal-mined counties in Kentucky, emphasizing the environmental justice implications of surface coal mining in Kentucky. Utilizing ArcGIS Pro, we conduct hot spot analysis and spatial mapping to visualize disparities. Data from the Mine Safety and Health Administration, American Community Survey, National Center for Health Statistics, and County Health Rankings inform our analysis. Results reveal higher poverty rates (25% vs. 18%) and lower incomes in coal-mined counties, alongside poorer health outcomes. Age-adjusted mortality rates are significantly higher in coal-mined counties for various causes, supported by statistical tests. Findings underscore the need for informed policies to address socioeconomic disparities and health impacts of coal mining in Kentucky.

Kentucky's forests are vital ecosystems undergoing intricate transformations, yet our ability to grasp these dynamics at large scales has been restricted. LiDAR technology emerges as a revolutionary tool in natural resource management. By generating high-resolution, three-dimensional point clouds, LiDAR offers a paradigm shift in how we perceive forest landscapes. This study harnesses the unparalleled potential of LiDAR when combined with the robust spatial analysis of GIS, the invaluable data from forest inventories, and the well-established principles of Landscape Ecology. The synergistic approach transcends traditional two-dimensional analysis, unlocking a new era of comprehensive insights into forest structure, composition, and dynamics across Kentucky's diverse landscapes.

The Salamander Blitz brought together multiple organizations in a collaborative effort to support the conservation of the endangered Yellow Spotted Woodland Salamander. Using GIS technology, we worked with biologists to identify specific habitat characteristics and employed spatial analysis to narrow down target areas for field searches. This cross-organizational initiative combined expertise and resources, resulting in an efficient and focused approach to conservation. Field teams, equipped with ArcGIS Field Maps, conducted on-site investigations based on our GIS-driven analysis. This presentation will highlight the collaborative process, the GIS methodologies used, and the real-world impact of modern spatial tools on endangered species conservation efforts.

Mining affects vegetation cover, soil, landscape, etc. during the mining and many years after mining has stopped. Monitoring geomorphic changes can help in identifying the most effective reclamation approaches in mining regions.  The objective is to assess the impact of mining on geomorphology, including changes in topography, area, extraction and accumulation volume. The DEM of Difference (D0D) and Slope local length of autocorrelation (SLLAC) techniques were used for this study. The analysis was conducted using SRTM DEM from 2000 and Lidar DEM from 2019. DoD is created by subtracting one elevation model from another to assess changes in geomorphology. SLLAC calculates changes in landscape by comparing the autocorrelation of slope values at different times. Preliminary results suggest significant changes in topography including slope and aspect. This research provides insights useful for sustainable environmental planning by comparing the geomorphology of two different periods

The City of Houston has created a solution to ensure equitable decision making throughout the city. Using a Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) combined with Houston-specific data, the goal is to create flexible indices to influence prioritization of projects. The first phase produced a Sidewalk Index – this index aims to promote sidewalk equality and just funding allocation by prioritizing funding for vulnerable areas, addressing socio-economic disparities and considering factors like natural disasters that impact critical infrastructure, such as bus stops and high pedestrian areas. Attendees will see an innovative demo of the data and learn how this initiative was achieved. 

Each of Kentucky's major river basins, supported by Basin Teams and community partners, uses priority watersheds to address environmental issues and direct resources for focused implementation through coordinated efforts. River basins in surface mining and reclamation areas are critical concerns, particularly in eastern Kentucky. Temporal and spatial mapping of LULC at the watershed level is important for understanding landscape dynamics and ensuring sustainable resource management. This study analyzed LULC dynamics in selected priority and non-priority watersheds of the Big Sandy River Basin, utilizing the NLCD between 2001 and 2021. The results revealed significant changes in LULC, indicating the effects of surface mining and reclamation activities on landscape composition. The findings could help watershed managers, land managers, and policymakers to manage land for the sustainable supply of different ecosystem services and the well-being of the local people in the study area.

ESRI, a prominent GIS software provider, is planning to phase out support for Web App Builder in the first half of 2025, signaling a transition towards the newer Experience Builder. Presentation illustrates how Experience Builder can be used to create and enhance GIS-based solutions, making it a versatile tool for various applications. Demonstration showcases general functionalities of ArcGIS Experience Builder, with a specific focus on the Louisville MSD mowing application.