You don’t have to be a computer expert to tap into the wealth of information available through the Geographic Information System.

The Westmoreland Conservation District is sponsoring a workshop on January 6 to let people discover that fact for themselves…and to help them learn how to use this powerful electronic tool to mix and match any variety of data to solve their organization’s toughest problems, improve its planning, and help make important decisions.

The workshop is open to the public and will be held at Westmoreland County Community College, Commissioners Hall Room 2401, in Youngwood.

The morning session, from 8:30 a.m. until noon, will cover web-based mapping systems. The afternoon session, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., will present an introduction to Arc GIS. Participants can choose to come to both sessions, or just the one of their choosing.

Presenters at the workshop include: Rob Knight, soil scientist, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service,Dan Griffith, nutrient management specialist/agricultural conservation technician, Westmoreland Conservation District andBrad Hurlburt, GIS technician, Westmoreland County GIS Department.

Cost is $10 for nonprofit organizations; $25 for for-profit organizations. The cost includes admission to either or both sessions.

Space is limited and advanced registration by December 22 is required. A printable registration form can be found at the District’s website.

For more information, contact Christie at 724-837-5271 ext. 210, or send email to: christie@wcdpa.com.

12/5/2008