Pollution Simulator

Small Business Innovation Research Award. National Science Foundation.

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Humankind's dependence on fossil fuels has resulted in environmental stresses and negative consequences at local, regional, and global levels. It is important for students to have an understanding of the processes involved in pollution transport, concentrations, and depletion. This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project from Global Positions, LLC is an Internet-based software tool, the Internet-Based Geographical Pollution Prediction Simulator (IGPPS), that will allow students to investigate the spatial distribution and concentrations of air pollution, through dynamic simulation, modeling and visualization. The research utilized an EPA-approved air dispersion model, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) coupled with the Internet to afford synergistic benefits, including a capacity to view complex pollution patterns and the provisions of a better understanding of the dynamics of air pollution, through dynamic exploration. This tool provided an understanding of existing situations as well as provide mechanisms for predicting the outcome of future scenarios. Ecological factors are playing a greater role in planning and decision processes of communities and will continue to grow in significance. In this context, the proffered internet-based simulator of airborne pollution dispersion, which promises to be easy to use, inexpensive, and promote enhanced student learning of pollution modeling through virtual experimentation and visualization, represents a valuable contribution. It has the potential to be widely used in classrooms on many subjects, including geography, cartography, environmental studies, industrial and other fields of engineering, and city planning, and integrated into a number of different curricula.

GIS Mapping and Self-Driving Cars

Our Team at Global Positions provided important data and concepts to a major vehicle manufacture regarding self-driving cars.

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Geographic Information Systems (GIS) play a vital role in the development of self-driving cars by providing the technology for these vehicles to perceive their surroundings and navigate safely. Here's how GIS underpins self-driving car functionality:

High-Resolution Maps: GIS allows for the creation of incredibly detailed maps that go beyond just roads and include things like lane markings, traffic signs, and even the height of buildings. This rich data provides a foundational understanding of the driving environment for the car's AI.

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GPS and Location Services: Self-driving cars rely on GPS to pinpoint their location within the map. GIS integrates GPS data with other sensors to give the car a constantly updated sense of its position and orientation.

LiDAR and Real-Time Mapping: While GPS provides general location, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) creates a real-time 3D map of the car's surroundings. GIS helps interpret this LiDAR data, allowing the car to identify objects and potential hazards on the road. This real-time mapping, known as SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), is crucial for self-driving car safety.

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In essence, GIS offers the digital infrastructure for self-driving cars to understand the world around them.  This technological foundation is essential for safe and reliable autonomous vehicles.

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Imagine you're behind the wheel in rush hour, but instead of clutching the steering wheel with white knuckles, you're chilling with a smoothie. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that's the promise of self-driving cars, and let me tell you, it's not magic. It's a high-tech party with a bunch of sensors as the coolest guests.

These cars are like detectives, constantly gathering clues about their surroundings. One key player is LIDAR, basically a laser light show that creates a super-detailed 3D picture of everything around the car. Think of it as having X-ray vision for cars, telling it how far away things are and how fast they're moving. Pretty neat, huh?

Then there's RADAR, kind of like LIDAR's chill cousin. It uses radio waves to get similar information, but instead of fancy details, it focuses on making sure the info is always reliable. Like that friend who might not remember your birthday cake flavor but definitely remembers it was delicious (and will totally eat another slice if you offer).

Cameras are another essential party guest. They're the eyes of the car, reading traffic signs and picking up on important colors and textures. Imagine a car that can tell a red light from a random cherry on a billboard (hopefully it wouldn't get too hungry).

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Now, all these sensors are like a band - they create a ton of data, but a car needs a conductor to make sense of it all. That's where computer vision algorithms come in. They're the brains behind the operation, sifting through the data to make sure the car follows the rules of the road and avoids any bumps along the way.

But there's more!  GIS navigation is like having a superpowered GPS on steroids.  It provides detailed maps and real-time routing, especially important when visibility is low.  Think of it as having a built-in map app that knows the best shortcuts and can even guide you through a foggy night.

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So, self-driving cars are like the ultimate team effort.  Advanced sensors gather info,  computer vision keeps things organized, and  GIS navigation shows the way.  It's all about making sure these cars are ready to hit the road with confidence, keeping you safe and maybe even letting you enjoy that smoothie on your commute.

Madison County, Montana E-911

Madison County, Montana.  Enhanced 9-1-1 System.  This project by Global Positions, LLC highlights the importance of Enhanced 911 (E911) systems. They built a complete E911 system for Madison County, Montana, using precise GPS data to map every road, driveway, and structure. High-resolution satellite imagery was used to help with the accuracy of this information. Phone numbers were linked to structure locations.  Simulations were run until a 98% accuracy compliance. E911 compliance is mandated by law, but it's more than just following regulations. It's about ensuring emergency services can be reached quickly and efficiently. This project serves as a reminder to evaluate your own telecom system's E911 capabilities. Does it maintain accurate location data, route calls to the right emergency center, eliminate the need for prefixes before dialing 911, and notify on-site personnel of emergency calls? Investing in a robust E911 system can make a critical difference in an emergency situation.

Precision Agriculture 

From Seed to Scale: Supercharge Your Corn & Soybean Farm with Precision.  Global Positions, LLC provided data collection, analysis and consulting for Precision agriculture.  Precision agriculture uses technologies such as GPS or automation to make farms more efficient. For example, farmers can use auto-steering equipment to precisely plant a field, and activity monitors can help dairy farmers collect data about their cows.  

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Struggling with razor-thin margins and unpredictable weather? Global Positions is here to revolutionize your corn and soybean operation with a holistic approach to precision farming. Imagine a future where data empowers every decision, maximizing yield while minimizing costs.

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Introducing the Power of Spatial Intelligence:

• Unify Your Data: We go beyond basic maps. Create comprehensive dashboards that integrate soils, irrigation, yield history, production costs, profit margins, and even compliance data – all in one powerful platform.

• Actionable Insights: Transform raw data into interactive apps. View high-resolution imagery, overlay field data you collect, and see real-time sensor feeds – all at your fingertips. Deploy these apps seamlessly – on-premise or in the cloud – for ultimate flexibility.

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Unlocking the Hidden Potential of Your Land:

• See What Your Fields are Saying: Let spatial patterns reveal themselves. Identify areas needing more or less irrigation, pinpoint potential yield gaps, and uncover opportunities for improvement across your entire operation.

• Plan for Peak Performance: Data-driven planning takes the guesswork out of your season. Optimize input costs like fertilizer and seeds for maximum yield. Model labor needs and equipment usage, ensuring you're always operating at peak efficiency.

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Weather the Storm, Dominate the Market:

• React Faster, Make Smarter Decisions: In today's volatile market, agility is key. Our integrated system provides real-time awareness of changing weather patterns and market conditions, allowing you to make informed decisions quickly.

• Sustainable Success: Precision farming isn't just about profit; it's about the future. Optimize resource use to minimize environmental impact, ensuring long-term sustainability for your land and your business.

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Global Positions isn't just about maps; it's about empowering you to become a data-driven powerhouse. Let's transform your corn and soybean operation into a model of efficiency, profitability, and sustainability. Contact us today and see how spatial intelligence can take your farm from good to great.​

GIS Development for Grape and Cherry Operation. California

Our team at Global Positions, LLC Embarked on a journey through the sprawling vineyards of Tulare and Kern County, California, where innovation meets tradition in a GIS Mapping Project like no other. In collaboration with a visionary family-owned operation, we embarked on a mission to revolutionize the way grapes and cherries are cultivated and managed. Through the power of ArcGIS Geodatabase, we meticulously crafted a digital tapestry representing every facet of the vineyard landscape, from the sprawling plantations to the intricate details of plantings, grafting, and vines. With expert precision, we generated professional atlas map pages, providing stakeholders with a comprehensive view of the operation at their fingertips. But our work didn't stop there. We provided unwavering support and training in the art of Geographic Information Systems, empowering owners and managers with the tools they need to navigate the vineyard landscape with confidence and clarity. With a GIS as the beating heart of the operation, everyone within the company is united by a common vision, equipped with the knowledge and insight to make informed decisions in real-time. From grapevines to cherry orchards, our GIS Mapping Project is not just a tool—it's a beacon of innovation, guiding the way to a future where tradition and technology converge in perfect harmony.

GIS / GPS Mapping of Maple Syrup Farm

From Forest to Table: Unveiling the Magic of Maple Syrup with GIS.  

Imagine the sweet aroma of maple syrup hanging in the crisp spring air. Global Positions has partnered with a multi-generational maple syrup producer to revolutionize their operation, transforming tradition with technology. But how exactly does GIS (Geographic Information Systems) transform sap into sweet success?

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This project is a deep dive into the world of maple syrup production. Global Positions utilizes a powerful combination of tools:

• GPS (Global Positioning Systems): These pinpoint the exact location of every tap point, allowing for efficient collection and future planning.

• Spatial Modeling: Imagine a virtual map of the entire maple forest, detailing the intricate network of tubing used to collect sap. This map helps optimize sap flow and identify potential bottlenecks.

• 3D Renderings: Soar through a digital representation of the sugarbush, visualizing the topography and planning future expansion with ease.

• Attribute Data Collection: Every detail, from the size and health of each tree to the volume of sap collected, is meticulously recorded, creating a treasure trove of knowledge for future seasons.

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But the magic doesn't stop there. This project goes beyond mapping – it helps unlock optimization for the entire operation. Here's a peek behind the curtain of maple syrup production:

• Sustainable Tapping: GIS ensures responsible practices by identifying the ideal trees for tapping, promoting long-term forest health.

• Streamlined Collection: By analyzing the flow patterns of sap, the most efficient routes for collection tubing can be designed.

• Precision Sap Concentration: Understanding the sugar content in different areas of the forest allows for targeted boiling to maximize syrup production.

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Global Positions isn't just mapping trees; they're mapping the future of a family tradition. This project is a testament to the power of GIS, transforming a sweet treat into a sustainable and efficient business. So next time you pour maple syrup on your pancakes, remember the invisible technology that ensures a steady flow of this delicious treasure.

Community Development

Wyoming Subdivision Planning and Rural Development.

Our team helped with a mapping adventure in the heart of Wyoming, where the majestic landscapes of Buffalo serve as the backdrop for an innovative community development project. Harnessing the power of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), we embarked on a journey to transform a sprawling family ranch into a vibrant community hub. With GIS, we delved into a realm of environmental analysis, exploring the delicate balance between conservation and development. Utilizing advanced 3D modeling techniques, we sculpted the terrain to minimize the visual impact of planned homes, seamlessly blending them into the natural beauty of the surroundings. By integrating detailed aerial photography into our GIS platform, we achieved unparalleled precision in mapping, ensuring accuracy in every detail of the project. Our journey continued as we charted proposed road networks with GIS, weaving a tapestry of connectivity that would unite the community in harmony with the land. And with the aid of GPS technology, we mapped existing features on the property with pinpoint accuracy, laying the foundation for a future where innovation and sustainability converge. Through the lens of GIS, the possibilities for community development are as vast and boundless as the Wyoming skies, inviting us to embark on a journey of discovery and transformation.

Mapping The Beartooth Pass: A Scenic Highway with Summer Skiing

This project by Global Positions highlights the Beartooth Pass, a scenic highway route and popular travel destination. Here's what you'll learn:

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• Location: The Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile stretch of U.S. Route 212, connecting Red Lodge, Montana to Cooke City, Montana near the Northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. The pass itself reaches a peak elevation of 10,947 feet and crosses the border between Montana and Wyoming.

• Seasonal Accessibility: Due to heavy snowfall, the Beartooth Pass is typically closed from early fall through late spring (April or May) and only open from mid-May to mid-October, weather permitting. This makes it a summer travel destination.

• Scenic Beauty: The Beartooth Highway is an All-American Road, a designation for particularly scenic and culturally significant roadways. It's been nicknamed "the most beautiful drive in America" for its stunning views.

• Summer Skiing: Uniquely located at the peak of the pass is Beartooth Basin Ski Area, the only summer-only ski area in North America. This cash-only ski resort operates from late May to early July, thanks to the remaining snowpack at this high elevation.

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This project by Global Positions likely created a travel map to help visitors navigate this breathtaking route and plan their summer adventure on the Beartooth Pass, offering beautiful scenery and the chance for a unique summer skiing experience at Beartooth Basin.

Wildfire Mitigation Plan - Glacier National Park and Montana Indian Reservations

A Wildland Fire Hazard Assessment was conducted on 2,092 structures and used to develop a separate Wildland Fire Hazard Mitigation Plan for Glacier National Park, the Blackfeet, Rocky Boy, Crow and Fort Peck. The purpose of the project was to increase awareness of wildland fire risk and aid land management planning for reducing the potential for wildland-fire damage or destruction of homes and buildings. This process included inventorying and mapping structure location and community infrastructure, identification of alternative wildland firefighting water sources such as drafting sites and helicopter dipping locations, mapping wildland fuel (veg.), modeling potential surface and crown fire behavior to help identify areas of high risk to wildland fire.

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Imagine Glacier National Park and surrounding areas as a giant board game, but instead of fighting for property, we're battling blazes! This project transformed the landscape into a detailed map to outsmart wildfires.

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Here's the mission: protect 2,092 homes and buildings (think cabins, ranger stations) from fiery foes. To achieve this, the project played detective:

• Mapping HQ: First, a high-tech map inventoried every structure and crucial infrastructure like water pumps. No house left behind!

• Water Warriors: Next, the team searched for hidden water sources like streams or ponds – firefighters need ammo to douse the flames! Think of these as giant water balloons waiting to be used.

• Fuel Detectives: Not all plants are created equal. Some, like dry brush, act like wildfire fuel. The project mapped these areas, pinpointing potential fire hazards.

• Firefighter Forecasters: Using fancy computer models, the project predicted how fires might spread across the ground (surface fires) or even climb trees (crown fires). This helped identify areas most at risk of a fiery takeover.
   

By creating this detailed map and understanding fire behavior, this project is like giving firefighters a superhero-level advantage against wildfires!

Water and Sewer, City of Hardin, MT

City of Hardin Water Resource and Public Utility Department, Hardin Montana.  Responsible for creating GIS base maps reflecting land ownership, parcels and city infrastructure.  Remotely sensed data were used for feature extraction.  Waterlines, sewer lines, hydrants and city infrastructure were mapped using combined methods of GPS data collection, digitizing, feature extraction and modeling.  Feature attributes were linked to spatial attributes using relational database technology.  

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Imagine being the cartographer for an entire city! That's what this project by the City of Hardin Water Resource and Public Utility Department is all about. They're basically building a digital treasure map of everything underground!

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Here's how they did it:

• Satellite Spies: First, they used fancy satellites to take a peek at the city from space, like a high-tech game of "I Spy." This helped them figure out the basic layout of land ownership and property lines.

• Gadget Gang: Next, they got on the ground with GPS gadgets to pinpoint the exact locations of water lines, sewer lines, fire hydrants, and other city infrastructure. Think of them as treasure hunters with metal detectors, but instead of gold, they're finding the city's hidden pipes and valves!

• Digital Detectives: All this information gets jumbled up unless it's organized. So, the team used special computer programs to sort it all out, like putting the puzzle pieces together. They even linked important details about each pipe or hydrant (like its size or material) to its location on the map.

​KnowGIS Training Series for ArcGIS Desktop. 

Mapping Your Way to Success: Unveiling the Secrets of ArcGIS Desktop with KnowGIS

Ever wished you could see the world through a data lens?  Imagine uncovering hidden trends, visualizing complex relationships, and making sense of information in a whole new way. That's the power of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and a Montana-based company called Global Positions is putting this magic in your hands!

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Nestled in the heart of Bozeman, Montana, Global Positions isn't just your average mapping firm. These guys are GIS rockstars, and they've developed the KnowGIS Training Series for ArcGIS Desktop, an award-winning program that's become a global phenomenon. Used by professionals, students, and educators in over 45 countries, KnowGIS is like having a personal GIS guru in your pocket (or on your computer screen).

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But what exactly is ArcGIS Desktop, you ask?  Think of it as a superpower for your data. This software lets you see things in a whole new light, transforming spreadsheets and databases into interactive maps that reveal hidden patterns and connections.  Imagine spotting disease outbreaks based on location trends, understanding traffic flow patterns in your city, or even analyzing customer demographics for targeted marketing campaigns.  The possibilities are endless!

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The KnowGIS training series takes the complexity out of ArcGIS Desktop and makes it accessible to everyone.  Their innovative video-based approach ditches the dry lectures and replaces them with engaging, informative content. It's like having your own personal GIS coach guiding you step-by-step through the software, all while keeping things interesting.

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So, whether you're a seasoned professional looking to refine your GIS skills, a student eager to unlock the power of spatial analysis, or an educator searching for a dynamic teaching tool, KnowGIS has you covered.  Head over to [[invalid URL removed]] and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery through the fascinating world of GIS.  After all, the world is waiting to be explored, one map at a time!

www.KnowGIS.com.  Global Positions Developed expert video-based training series which provides innovative and interesting training material for learning ArcGIS Desktop.  The training series has been used in over 45 countries around the world.  ArcGIS Desktop is software that allows you to discover patterns, relationships, and trends in your data that are not readily apparent in databases, spreadsheets, or statistical packages. 

Global Positions: Powering Energy Decisions with GIS

Global Positions, a Bozeman, Montana-based GIS firm, plays a crucial role in both the traditional and renewable energy sectors by harnessing the power of location data.

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Empowering the Traditional Energy Value Chain:

• Exploration & Development: GIS helps pinpoint potential oil and gas reserves, analyze geological formations, and optimize drilling locations.

• Refining & Transportation: Precise pipeline networks can be designed and monitored using GIS, ensuring efficient product movement while minimizing environmental impact.

• Sales & Marketing: Understanding customer locations and energy demands allows for targeted marketing strategies and optimized distribution networks.

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By integrating GIS with enterprise systems, energy companies gain valuable insights that:

• Drive intelligent operations: Optimize resource allocation, streamline processes, and improve decision-making.

• Enhance safety and sustainability: Mitigate environmental risks associated with traditional energy production and ensure regulatory compliance.

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Shaping the Future of Renewable Energy:

The shift towards clean energy sources like wind and solar brings new challenges. GIS helps navigate these by:

• Identifying renewable energy potential: GIS can analyze factors like wind patterns and solar radiation to locate optimal sites for wind turbines and solar farms.

• Streamlining site selection: GIS helps assess environmental factors, land use regulations, and grid connectivity to expedite responsible development.

• Optimizing operations: Monitor the performance of renewable energy facilities, identify maintenance needs, and ensure efficient energy transmission.

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Global Positions demonstrates how GIS is a powerful tool for both traditional and renewable energy sectors. By leveraging location intelligence, companies can make informed decisions, improve efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable energy future.