Land & Waterfront Development

GIS / Visual Simulations

ESS provides a wide range of geographic information system (GIS) services to our clients. ESS uses GIS to present and analyze spatial data that may include land uses, environmental resources, site elevations, and project features. When many datasets applicable to a project are layered onto a single graphic or site plan, the interrelationships between resources can be more easily understood. Project scientists, planners, and engineers are all able to readily access the data and use it to assess potential project impacts and conduct meaningful constraints analyses. ESS also uses GIS to present trends in data at various locations over time, and conduct statistical analyses for scientifically defensible results.

Graphics, Maps, and Animations

Using high-speed computers and sophisticated software, ESS GIS specialists produce graphics that include high resolution maps, 3-D visual simulations, 3-D animations, and fly-through animations. These images are highly effective for presenting and analyzing complex data in reports and permit applications, at public hearings, in expert witness testimony, and on client websites.

GIS Data

ESS develops and manages many complex GIS datasets. These resources may be developed from existing data in the public/private sector or from project-specific data collected using Global Positioning Systems (GPS). GIS data used to support ESS projects typically include:

• Aerial Photographs and Satellite Imagery
• Contemporary and Historic Maps
• Environmental Resources
• Cultural/Historic Resources
• Remediation/Brownfield Conditions
• Noise Measurements and Modeling Data
• Traffic and Roadway Conditions
• Air Quality Measurements and Modeling Data
• Meteorological Conditions
• Viewsheds and Line-of-Sight Data
• Sampling and Monitoring Data

Data Visualization

Over the past 12 years, ESS has successfully developed techniques for visualizing GIS data in 2-D and 3-D, both static and animated, and has incorporated GIS and data visualization services into all of our core environmental consulting and engineering disciplines. GIS is an excellent tool for developing spatially accurate 2-D and 3-D project renderings and animations. ESS has also used GIS and data visualization technologies to conduct constraints analyses and select submarine and overland power transmission project routes, monitor remediation results and assess permit compliance on a superfund site, map watersheds, and simulate visual impacts for power plants and wind farms.