IPC Programs
Projects & Resources
Noxious Weed Information Project: GIS Lab
Geographic Information System Lab
The Geographic Information System Lab (GISLab) is the core operation of the Noxious Weed Information Project (NWIP). NWIP is comprised of various projects designed to further the mission of the Integrated Pest Control Branch (IPC) and facilitate interagency cooperation in Noxious weed control. The GISLab provides the mapping and database expertise as an integral part of each of NWIP's projects.Of central importance to the GISLab's mission is the collection and organization of the acquired knowledge of the Biologists in the eight IPC Noxious Weed Eradication Districts.
Global Positioning Systems (GPS) equipment is used in the field for fixing the locations of Noxious weeds. The computer mapping and database functions allow a continuity and reporting ability that has not previously existed. The GISLab is also conducting the mapping of the Weed Pest Damage Report (wPDR) database of the Plant Pest Diagnostic Center's Botany Lab. Examples of two of NWIP's projects are the surveying and mapping of Yellow Starthistle in the Sierra's in conjunction with local Weed Management Area groups (WMA) and CalTRANS; and the surveying and mapping of Purple Loosestrife in California waterways. NWIP also produces the "Noxious Times" newsletter for California Noxious Weed Coordinating Committee.The GISLab has an open door policy which allows other Branches, Programs and Agencies access to maps and mapping.
An example of our work