CalGIS 2025

Interactive Emergency Mapping: Using Open-Source and Hard-to-Find Data for Real-World Scenarios
Monday, April 14, 2025 - 1:00 - 5:00 PM

The goal of this workshop is to share knowledge about open-source and secure datasets that could be beneficial throughout the emergency management lifecycle. We will briefly go over the stages of emergency management (i.e., preparation, planning, response, recovery and mitigation) along with examples of real-life GIS applications from Solano County and Dewberry. Next, we will delve into the world of locating open-source data from local, state, and federal data repositories and, for public agencies, how to coordinate with private entities for secure data on critical infrastructure and those with access and functional needs. Lastly, this workshop will end with 2-3 emergency hands-on scenarios where attendees will work together as a team to determine what GIS data and applications they might want to have in a given scenario along with a few injects to “shake things up” along the way.

Disclaimer: Please note that this workshop is not in anyway sponsored nor approved by the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) nor the California Specialized Training Institute (CSTI) for the California Office of Emergency Services' Emergency Operations Center credentialing program.

This session explores innovative applications of AI and deep learning in remote sensing, thermal surveys, and infrastructure assessment. Attendees will learn about a Methodological Rigor Index (MRI) for evaluating deep learning survey papers, thermal infrared (TIR) mapping of geothermal activity, and machine learning-driven pavement condition assessments. The insights provided will showcase how geospatial data enhances scientific rigor, environmental monitoring, and road infrastructure management. This session is ideal for those interested in the intersection of AI, geospatial analysis, and real-world applications.

Discover how GIS is being leveraged to address environmental challenges and protect cultural heritage in California and beyond. This session will feature two groundbreaking geospatial applications: the Tijuana River Index, a cross-border mapping tool designed to combat watershed hazards like sedimentation and aquatic pollution, and the Arches Project, an open-source platform integrated with Esri tools to tackle historic preservation, emergency management, and urban planning. Presenters will share insights into data collection, interactive mapping, and real-world applications that enhance environmental sustainability and cultural resource management. Attendees will walk away with practical strategies and inspiration to implement GIS for impactful decision-making in their own communities.

Tijuana River Index
Jack Daley, Geospatial Analyst, Arup

Integrating Arches and Esri: Transforming California’s Geospatial Workflows
Peter Hansen and Adam Lodge, Geospatial Systems Consultants, Farallon Geographics

This session explores cutting-edge GIS applications in emergency management and disaster response. Indoor mapping advancements for 9-1-1 centers enhance real-time situational awareness, while the Regional Delta-Wide Decision Support Tool provides actionable flood intelligence using Esri’s GIS platforms. The tool enables field teams to monitor levee conditions, access real-time weather and flood data, and communicate efficiently during emergencies. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how GIS supports life-saving operations and proactive disaster mitigation.

Indoor Mapping for Emergency Response and Beyond
Lauren DiGiovanni, MGIS, GISP, ENP, Client Success Manager, DATAMARK Technologies, a Michael Baker Intl. Company

State of California Delta Emergency Management Tool
Jennifer Buchanan, GISP, Certified Floodplain Manager, GEI Consultants
Chris Ferrari, P.E., CFM, Senior Professional, GEI Consultants

In this mini workshop, attendees will use OpenAI API to summarize property data (reviews, area scores, nearby attractions) and present it on an interactive map for easy decision-making.
We will highlight a use case as AI transforms complex property data into concise, user-friendly summaries and display summarized information as clickable markers on an interactive map.

How It Works

1. Data Collection: Pull property details (address, reviews, area scores, attractions) from public rental databases.
2. AI Summarization: Use OpenAI API to generate concise summaries of reviews, area scores, and nearby amenities.
3. Interactive Map: Display properties as markers with AI-generated summaries in popups.
4. Live Demo Workflow

Attendees may bring a laptop to follow along.