July 31, 2001 – The University of the Virgin Islands has received a donation from the Environmental Systems Research Institute of geographic information systems computer software worth more than $5,000.
Two programs, "BusinessMAP Pro" and "ArcView 8," have been donated to the Conservation Data Center within UVI's Eastern Caribbean Center. The center compiles, analyzes and disseminates natural resources data. According to data manager Stevie Henry, the software will permit the CDC to "continue expanding the use of GIS as a tool for solving problems in the territory."
According to a UVI release, ESRI is the world's leader in geographic information systems software. The release described "BusinessMAP PRO" as a mapping application "that transforms information from databases, contact managers, spreadsheets and electronic telephone books into push-pin and color-filled maps." It said "ArcView 8," the company's newest desktop mapping software, integrates several applications that were previously separate.
Information collected by the Conservation Data Center is linked to a GIS utilizing ESRI's ArcView and ArcInfo software. The center's GIS lab provides analysis as well as accurate map output for various areas of natural resources interest in the territory.
For further information about the center, contact Dayle Barry by telephone at 693-1030 or by e-mail at dbarry@uvi.edu.
