Introduction

This help documentation is intended to familiarize the user with the interactive functionality of this Web Mapping Application. For general information on the purpose of this application, please visit the "About" documentation accessible from the top navigation menu of the main application.

DEP Geographic Environmental Emergency Response (GEER)

The DEP Geographic Environmental Emergency Response Viewer application was built with GIS tools and is a web-based platform designed to support environmental response and planning activities. This application includes interactive maps and visualizations that allow users to see where and what is affected by an environmental incident.

User Interface

This application features a minimalistic user interface. Generally, the user interface consists of 4 key parts as described below. These are the overall sections of the application, specific tools are described in more detail in other sections of this documentation.
Top Banner
The top banner features:
  1. Department Logo
  2. Name of Application
  3. Name of Bureau
  4. Name of Governor
  5. Name of Department Secretary
  6. Useful Links
  7. About Information
  8. Help Documentation
  9. Feedback Link
  10. Social Media Links
Left Sidebar
The collapsible left sidebar includes "widgets" or tools that provide:
  • Application Specific Search Functions
  • List of GIS Data Layers Available for Mapping
  • Identify Results
  • Elevation Profile Generator (if enabled)
  • Map Legend
  • Print Functionality
  • Link to Agency's GIS Open Data Portal
Interactive Map
The large interactive map includes the following useful components:
  • Navigation Functions
  • Map Themes
  • Selection of Basemaps
  • Swipe Tool
  • Measure Tool
  • Annotation Tool
Search Results Table
The collapsible search results table that appears at the bottom of the screen provides tabular relevant information when a search is performed for one of the following:
  • Water Wells and Springs
  • Publications
  • Surficial Geology
  • Bedrock Geology
  • Quarries
The navigation controls for this application are located directly on the main map component as shown in the image below.

Selecting the magnify glass expands a text box in which an address or lat/long is to be entered. After entering the information, click on the magnifying glass again to perform the search. The map will zoom to and recenter on the requested location.

Place names may also be entered and may result in a drop-down list of choices. Lat/long will be accepted as decimal degrees in several formats:

  • 76.94W 40.35N
  • -76.94, 40.35
  • X:-76.94 Y:40.35
  • Place Names
  • Addresses
Zoom

The + and - buttons will zoom the map in and out at predetermined intervals. Alternatively, you can zoom in/out with the mouse wheel. On mobile devices, you can zoom in/out using the traditional pinching motion on your screen.

Clear Map View

Clearing the map view will clear any search results, remove selection boxes, annotation and highlights of selected map features. (except the on map search)

Home

This button will return the map to its original orientation and scale (shows the full extent of Pennsylvania and north to top).

Orientation

The gray-filled half of this diamond icon points to north on the map. If the map was rotated (see “Rotate” below), clicking this icon will reset the map orientation to north = up.

Locate Me

This button will zoom the map view to your device's location and display that location as a blue dot. When enabled, the button will turn dark gray; to remove the blue dot simply click the button again.

Pan

Panning (moving the map around) is done by a mouse left-click and hold, then dragging in the direction you wish to pan (as you drag, a closed-fist icon appears). Release the mouse button to stop panning. On mobile devices, you can pan with the traditional swiping motion.

Rotate

Rotating (or spinning) the map is done by a mouse right-click and hold, then dragging in the direction you wish the map to rotate (as you drag, a closed-fist icon appears). Release the mouse button to stop rotating the map. On mobile devices, you can rotate the map with the traditional two-finger rotation motion.

Scale Bar

In the lower right corner of the map view, the scale bar and numbers show the real-world distance represented by the map view. Scale units are in kilometers (km) and miles (mi) at the home extent, but they will switch to meters (m) and feet (ft) as you zoom way in.

Layers

The Layers widget in the left sidebar provides a list of data layers that may be displayed on the map. If an individual data layer name is shown in light gray, the layer will not appear at the displayed zoom level. If the data layer name is shown in dark gray, then the map is zoomed in or out sufficiently to display the data. (See “Visibility Control” below for more display tips.)

Layer Grouping

Data layers are grouped together under common themes. The main groupings in PaGEODE are:

  • Surficial Geology
  • Bedrock Geology
  • Trail of Geology
  • Natural Resources
  • Physiography
  • Geologic Hazards
  • Other Layers

Note: Layers and groups are different for each application.

Expander

Each data layer grouping has an arrow to the left of its name. When the arrow is clicked, the group layer will expand to show the data layers it contains. Most of data layers in the expanded list will be individual layers, but some will contain their own sublayers. These lower order group layers also have an arrow to the left of their names.

Visibility Control

The eye icon beside each data layer allows you to turn its visibility on and off. A layer and its parent layer must have their eyes open for the layer to be visible. If the eyes are open and the data are not visible, then either (1) the map zoom level is outside of a preset visibility range for the data or (2) the data fall outside of the map area shown on the screen. As stated in the opening paragraph of this section, when a layer name is shown in dark gray, the zoom level is appropriate for showing the data.

Additional Options

The ellipsis icon to the right of each data layer will show additional options for the layers:

  • Go to Full Extent
    zooms the map to the full extent of the data layer (collapse the left sidebar to view completely)
  • Layer Information
    opens a separate web page that shows the metadata for the database
  • Opacity Modifiers
    allow you to increase or decrease the transparency of the data layer on the map

Legend

The Legend widget in the left sidebar shows the full symbology of all visible datasets (i.e., layers) on the map, regardless of whether or not they are in the map view. When no layers are set to visible, no symbols are shown.

Note: The legend contents depend on the layers visible and differ by application.

Identify Results

The Identify operation in mapping allows users to interactively select features on a map to retrieve information about them, such as attributes and spatial details. It facilitates efficient exploration and analysis by providing immediate access to feature-specific data within the map view.

The Identify Results widget enables users to retrieve and display information from visible data layers based on a map click. For instance, when clicking on the map with visible bedrock geologic units, the widget returns the names and descriptions of nearby units. Note that the number of results may vary based on the map scale, prompting users to zoom in for more precise identification if needed.

  • When clicking on the map, the provided information includes the latitude and longitude coordinates (40.76587, -77.60529), the corresponding county (Centre), the municipality (Potter Twp), the zip code (16875), the quadrangle (Spring Mills), and the forest district (7). This data allows users to identify specific locations and understand their geographic context within the map.
  • When clicking on a map, multiple layers may provide data for the same point. To view information from each layer, utilize the up and down arrows to expand and collapse the details associated with each layer. This feature enables users to explore and access data from different layers conveniently, enhancing their understanding of the selected point's attributes and context.
  • When interacting with a map, it is possible to obtain multiple results within the same layer. To navigate through these results, utilize the pagination feature within the header, allowing you to move from one feature to another within the layer. This functionality facilitates efficient exploration and analysis of the layer's data, enabling you to easily access and review each individual result.
  • Below some features, you will discover convenient icons that provide direct access to various functionalities such as driving directions, social media sites, PDF maps, and more. These icons offer quick and easy ways to access additional information and perform specific actions related to each feature.
  • Certain layers, such as state parks, offer additional comprehensive sections that provide detailed information on various aspects like ADA amenities, overnight stays, hiking trails, sightseeing spots, and more. These sections provide in-depth details to enhance your understanding and exploration of the specific features within the layer, allowing you to access specific information based on your interests and needs.

Elevation Profile

The Elevation Profile widget in the left sidebar will produce a surface profile along a user-defined transect like the one shown in the image below.


To start the transect, click on the option “New Profile” and proceed with the following steps:

  • Click and release the left mouse button at the desired starting point on the map
  • Move the mouse away from the starting point
    (a black dashed line extends from the starting point to the mouse’s position, which will be shown by a black crosshair)
  • Click the left mouse button again to insert a waypoint
    (a waypoint can be used to change the direction of the transect)
  • Clicking the down arrow beside the word “Ground” will expand a list of statistics related to the line shown in the graph
  • Placing the mouse cursor within the graph will show a vertical, gray dashed line with a label indicating the ground elevation and a corresponding white circle will appear on the map
  • As the cursor is moved across the graph, the ground elevation values will change and the white circle on the map will move along the transect line

The vertical ellipsis in the upper right corner of the widget frame will open a menu for profile settings. Use this menu to choose the measurement units to show on the graph and the scaling behavior of the X-Y axis. If “Uniform chart scaling” is checked, the X and Y axis will have the same scale. If it is not checked, the profile will have a vertical exaggeration.

GPS

The GPS widget in the left sidebar will allow users to Add GPS Points on Map like the one shown in the image below.

The GPS widget enables users to add GPS locations on Map either by inserting Label, Latitude and Longitude or by uploading the CSV file to add Locations in Bulk.


  • 1. After inserting Label, Latitude and Longitude Click on Plot Waypoint and then it will add and zoom to that WayPoint on the Map.
  • 2. Can upload the CSV file either by droping and click on Upload and then it will add and zoom to all WayPoint's on the Map.
  • 3. Sample CAV file can be downloaded by click on SAMPLE CSV Link.

Searches

Water Well & Spring Search

The Water Well & Spring Search enables users to search for a variety of data on water wells or springs in Pennsylvania. The data is stored in a database that is popularly known as the Pennsylvania Groundwater Information System (PaGWIS). The history of the database, the accuracy of the data, and an explanation of all the fields in each retrievable data package is explained in a user guide that can be downloaded from this link: DCNR E-Library


Because of the large volume of data in the source database, the data symbols will only display when the layer (water wells or springs) is turned on and the map view is zoomed in on an area of interest. Also for this reason, searches are limited to one of the following:

  • Local Areas
  • Individual wells or springs
    (identified by a unique ID in the database)
  • All wells associated with a defined constraint
    (e.g., wells drilled by a specific driller)
To search for water wells or springs:
  • Turn on visibility for the Natural Resources group layer and Water Wells and/or Springs sublayers (depending on the topic of your search)
  • Choose between Text Search or Map Search
  • Select the Data Type—Water Well or Spring
  • Select the Data Package
  • If doing a Text Search, fill in locational or other information to narrow the search
  • If doing a Map Search, zoom in to the area of interest to the point where you can see well water and/or spring symbols, then draw a rectangle or circle to define the search area (drawing tools will be disabled until the zoom level is adequate to see symbols)
  • If doing a Water Well search, check the box near the bottom of the search menu to include unlocated wells within intersected municipalities if you wish to have that data (water wells that do not have coordinates but were assigned a municipality)
  • Click the Search button at the bottom of the search menu
  • Check the search result table displayed at the bottom of the screen for the retrieved data (see the section Search Result Tables below)
  • Publication Search

    Use this widget to search for current (4th) Pennsylvania Geological Survey publications and for selected previous Pennsylvania Geological Surveys and U.S. Geological Survey publications.



    To search for publications:
    • Select the publication series to be searched
      • Checking a group header (publishing organization) will cause all publication types within that group to be selected
      • To be more restrictive, expand the group header list (do not check it) and check the desired publication series from the underlying list
    • If desired, choose to exclude publications with statewide coverage from your search results (this option is immediately under the list of publishers)
    • Select the area where you would like to perform the search using one of two methods
      • Use a drawing tool
      • Use the drop-down menus to pick a county or 7.5-minute quadrangle
    • Check the search result table displayed at the bottom of the screen for the retrieved data (see the section Search Result Tables below)
    • Click the link provided in the Link_Page column of the Publication Search Results table to open a landing page for the publication (see example of landing page below)
    • [image here]

    Surficial Geology Search

    The Surficial Geology Search allows you to search for surficial geologic units across mapped areas of Pennsylvania. Most of these areas represent reconnaissance mapping at a 1:24,000 scale.



    To search for surficial geologic units:
    • Turn on visibility for the Surficial Geology group layer and Surficial (Quaternary) Geology sublayer to see the areas in Pennsylvania that have surficial mapping data
    • Use the drawing tools to search for all surficial geologic units within a defined area
    • Use the Layer and Unit drop-down selectors to search across all mapped areas for a particular surficial geologic unit
    • Check the search result table displayed at the bottom of the screen for the retrieved data (see the section Search Result Tables below)

    Bedrock Geology Search


    The Bedrock Geology Search allows you to search Pennsylvania’s 1:250,000-scale bedrock geology dataset for all bedrock geologic units in defined areas or for bedrock geologic units by name, age, or lithology across the state.

    To search for bedrock geologic units:
    • Turn on visibility for the Bedrock Geology group layer and Geologic Units sublayer
    • Use the drawing tools to search for all bedrock geologic units within a defined area
    • Use the Layer and Value drop-down selectors to search the state for bedrock geologic units by name, geologic age, or primary lithology
    • Check the search result table displayed at the bottom of the screen for the retrieved data (see the section Search Result Tables below)

    Quarry Search

    To find information on nonfuel-mineral production in the state, use the Quarry Search tool. The data being searched were collected from individual operators in 2015 and may not represent all quarries, as the survey was voluntary.



    To search for quarries:
    • Turn on visibility for the Natural Resources group layer and the Quarry Operations (2015) sublayer
    • Select Imagery for the basemap to see the quarries when zoomed in
    • Use the Operation Name Search tab and select a named operation from the drop-down list to search for a specific quarry
    • Use the Product/Lithology Search tab to search by any combination of product, lithology, and/or county (must select at least one value from at least one of the three drop-down lists)
    • After making your selections in either quarry search tab, click on the Search button to perform the search (the quarry points will be circled in blue, and the map view will zoom to the area of the selections)
    • Check the search result table displayed at the bottom of the screen for the retrieved data (see the section Search Result Tables below)

    Trace Downstream Tool

    The trace downstream tool is used to identify the flow path of water or other substances from a starting point (such as a point source of pollution) to downstream locations (such as a water intake or a downstream community).

    All the tools in this app are presented as wizards: a user interface element that guides users through a complex or multi-step process by breaking it down into a series of smaller, more manageable steps or tasks. The wizards consist of a series of forms, each of which presents the user with a clear and concise set of instructions or questions, and provides feedback on their progress.

    The following is an explanation of each step in the process.

    Here, you have the option to enter latitude and longitude coordinates or to place a point by clicking on the map using the provided button. Once you have placed the point, you can proceed to step 2.

    The starting point is important because it serves as the reference point for the trace downstream analysis. The trace downstream tool uses the starting point as the origin for tracing the flow of water or substances downstream, and can identify the flow path and potential impact of the pollutant on water quality or other environmental factors.

    A buffer distance (entered in feet) around a trace downstream line is a zone or area created around the trace downstream line, which represents the path of water or substances flowing downstream from a given starting point. The buffer represents the potential impact zone of the flow path, and is often used to identify and assess the potential impact of pollutants or other environmental factors on nearby features or resources.

    The buffer is used to select locations that are affected, which includes water intakes, wells, public water supply service areas (complete list available in step 6 ).

    The downstream distance measurement in a trace downstream refers to the length of the path or route that a pollutant or substance would travel from a starting point to a downstream location. This measurement is typically calculated based on the flow direction and velocity of the water or substance, as well as other physical and environmental factors that may influence the path of the pollutant.

    The checkbox "End trace at state boundary", simply clips the line at the state boundary.

    We use a service provided by ESRI that performs the trace which uses a digital elevation model (DEM) to determine the flow direction and path of water, and can take into account factors such as the slope of the terrain, land use, and other physical and environmental characteristics.

    Click "Trace Downstream" to begin the process. The current status of your request will appear beneath the buttons.

    The checkbox "End trace at state boundary", simply clips the line at the state boundary.

    This step "may" show possibly affected Public Water Service Areas. (Areas that were intersected by the buffer zone)

    Clicking a box for a service area, will display the area highlighted on the map.

    When checked, this area is also searched alongside the buffer to show all affected entities inside the zone.

    * Depending on the area you are concerned with, there may not be any Public Water Service Areas.

    The checkbox "End trace at state boundary", simply clips the line at the state boundary.

    Click the blue "Find Entities inside the Trace Buffer" to find features inside the buffer.

    Below you will find a list of possible entities.

    If you clicked an optional "Public Water Service Areas", it will find and return entities inside that area as well.

    The fields returned are available below.

    Entity Types Returned

    • Water - PaDWIS Intakes
    • Water - PaDWIS Wells
    • Public Schools
    • Child Care Centers
    • Colleges and Universities
    • Hospitals
    • Hospices
    • Drug and Alcohol Treatment Facilities
    • Intermediate Care Facilities
    • Nursing Homes
    • Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities
    Habitat & Species may not be complete: always follow your standard procedure for contacting other agencies regarding wildlife species.

    Plume Modeling Tool

    Plume modeling refers to the process of simulating and predicting the behavior of air pollution plumes. It is a technique used in atmospheric science and environmental engineering to understand the dispersion and movement of pollutants released into the air.

    All the tools in this app are presented as wizards: a user interface element that guides users through a complex or multi-step process by breaking it down into a series of smaller, more manageable steps or tasks. The wizards consist of a series of forms, each of which presents the user with a clear and concise set of instructions or questions, and provides feedback on their progress.

    The following is an explanation of each step in the process.

    The Plume Modeling tool operates based on shapefiles, KMZ or KML files uploaded by the user.

    *Plume models themselves are generated by third parties, as it is an intensive process and involves many variables.

    Requirements

    1. Shaoefiles MUST be zipped.
    2. Polygons and Lines are supported (points are not supported)
    3. Coordinates should be in WGS84 or Web Mercator
    4. Max file size is 2 MB
    5. Files can contain multiple features as some models provide data over time
    6. GEER ignores links and style formats contained in KML/KMZ files.

    Click "Choose File" to locate the file and upload it to the site.

    Files are parsed automatically and loaded into the "User Added Data, Plume Models" section of the layers list.

    Once the file is parsed you are taken to step 2

    Since this tool allows for multiple shapes for an event, You are required to choose the layer you want to use buy selecting it in the "Layers" sidebar widget.

    Once the shapefile is parsed and loaded in the "Layers" sidebar, you will need to select it.

    You select the one to use by finding it in the layers section, then expanding it by clicking the 3 dot menu. Then click the "button" circled in red as seen in this screenshot.

    Now scroll back up to the tool, you will be at Step 3 - seen in the next section

    Why a source point? By setting the source of the plume (be it a train derailment, factory incident, fire, etc), we can provide the distance from the source to each entity in the final results.

    You have two ways to set a source point.

    1. Enter a latitude and longitude. Enter the coordinates and click "Use Entered Lat/Lng"
    2. Click the map at the source. Click "Click Map to Place Source", then click the map where the plume originates.

    "Find Affected Entities" - finds entities inside the plume shape

    Click the blue "Find Affected Entities" button to find entities inside the buffer. Your results will appear in a table below the map.

    Below you will find a list of possible entities.

    The fields returned are available below.

    The following tools are available in the search results table

    Filter and sort : You can filter columns using text or sort the column

    Export data to CSV : Export the current table to a csv file.

    Field Chooser : Turn fields on and off

    Entity Types Returned for Plumes

    • Public Schools
    • Child Care Centers
    • Colleges and Universities
    • Hospitals
    • Hospices
    • Drug and Alcohol Treatment Facilities
    • Intermediate Care Facilities
    • Nursing Homes
    • Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities

    Data Fields for entities.

    Contact information comes from DEP or the Pa Department of Health
    • Latitude
    • Longitude
    • Source Layer
    • Distance from Source (feet)
    • Distance from Source (miles)
    • Phone number
    • System Name
    • Contact Person
    • Habitat (sensitive or endangered species information)
    • Species
    Habitat & Species may not be complete: always follow your standard procedure for contacting other agencies regarding wildlife species.

    Nuclear Power Plant Incident Tool

    The Nuclear incident tool is very similar to the Plume modeling in that it refers to the process of simulating and predicting the behavior of air pollution plumes. It is a technique used in atmospheric science and environmental engineering to understand the dispersion and movement of pollutants released into the air.

    All the tools in this app are presented as wizards: a user interface element that guides users through a complex or multi-step process by breaking it down into a series of smaller, more manageable steps or tasks. The wizards consist of a series of forms, each of which presents the user with a clear and concise set of instructions or questions, and provides feedback on their progress.

    The following is an explanation of each step in the process.

    Click on the Facility to zoom to it, the map will automatically enable the related layers

    The "from" bearing refers to the bearing direction the wind is coming FROM

    This step is entirely OPTIONAL, but seeing the wind direction on the map can be helpful.

    The bearing "from" direction as reported at the plant.

    This bearing is provided in the report received from the plant.

    This will show the wind direction on the map in the form of an arrow

    The arrow displayed on the map shows the direction the wind is blowing.

    In this step we are selecting zones downwind of the plant where we expect pollutants to drift.

    In this screenshot, notice the arrow underneath the "E" section pointing east, using the checkboxes we've selected the 5 & 10 miles zones in the direction the wind is expected to be moving.

    This prepares you for step 4, where you will search for entities inside the selected areas.

    Here we are selecting zones around the plant where we wish to find affected entities that would be affected by a release.

    5 - refers to the 5 miles zones (yellow areas)

    10 - refers to the 10 miles zones (green areas)

    Selecting a 5 mile zone automatically selects the 2 mile zone for the same area

    "Find Affected Entities" - finds entities inside the selected zones.

    Following along from step 3, we would be searching all 3 "E' zones we've selected.

    When you click the "Find Affected Entities" button, the application will display any entities inside these blue highlighted areas below the map.

    Click the blue "Find Affected Entities" button to find entities inside the buffer. Your results will appear in a table below the map.

    Below you will find a list of possible entities.

    The fields returned are available below.

    The following tools are available in the search results table

    Filter and sort : You can filter columns using text or sort the column

    Export data to CSV : Export the current table to a csv file.

    Field Chooser : Turn fields on and off

    Entity Types Returned for Nuclear Power Plants

    • Public Schools
    • Child Care Centers
    • Colleges and Universities
    • Hospitals
    • Hospices
    • Drug and Alcohol Treatment Facilities
    • Intermediate Care Facilities
    • Nursing Homes
    • Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities

    Data Fields for entities.

    Contact information comes from DEP or the Pa Department of Health
    • Latitude
    • Longitude
    • Source Layer
    • Distance from Source (feet)
    • Distance from Source (miles)
    • Phone number
    • System Name
    • Contact Person
    • Habitat (sensitive or endangered species information)
    • Species
    Habitat & Species may not be complete: always follow your standard procedure for contacting other agencies regarding wildlife species.

    Offline Data

    We have implemented offline data functionality in the application for "some" of the data. Please note that we cannot take all the DEP eMapPa data offline due to the number of layers and the size of the data. However, we are now enabling offline access for the following data critical to the application. So you can still perform reporting on these entities.

    • PaDWIS Intakes
    • PaDWIS Wells
    • Public Water Service Supply Areas
    • Safe Drinking Water Areas
    How does it work?

    The only thing you need to do to get offline data is login to the application when the eMapPa services are online. The data will download automatically in the background, and you can continue to use the application as normal while it's working.

    What happens if I try to access data when eMapPa services are offline?

    The application checks to see if the services are functioning by "pinging" the server. If it fails to respond accordingly, it will revert to loading the data from your browser automatically.

    What about accessing other eMapPa layers when using the application when services are down?

    Layers not critical to the process will not be stored offline and will not be visible in the "Layers" section on the sidebar. So you will notice a limited set of groups and layers. Other agency (ESRI, NOAA, PASDA, etc.) layers will show in the sidebar where they normally do.

    This means that you can continue to use the Plume Modeling, Trace Downstream, and Nuclear Facilities tools even when you are not connected to the DEP GIS Servers when they are down or offline for maintenance. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

    • The data is stored in your browser's database, not in the cache. Clearing the cache will not remove the offline data, so it is safe in that regard.
    • The offline data is only available in the browser you downloaded it with. For example, if you download it in Chrome, you won't be able to access it in Edge. You will need to login with the browser in which you intend to use the offline data.
    • The offline data is not synced to other devices. Syncing will not copy the data to other devices, similar to how saved passwords or bookmarks/links are synced by browsers. Each browser keeps its own unique copy of the database.
    • The offline data is linked to the logged-in user on the specific device and browser. So if you log into Windows under another account, you won't be able to access the data without first downloading it. The data is user and browser-based.
    • Data and/or map services that are externally sourced, like PASDA, ESRI, NOAA, etc., are not stored in offline mode.
    • This has not been tested using any Apple browsers or devices.

    Searches

    Bureau of Recreation and Conservation aka BRC - Grant Funding Chart

    The BRC Grant Funding Chart widget provides a visually intuitive representation of project funding amounts across various funding sources. This interactive pie chart ensures easy comprehension of funding distribution. Users have the flexibility to extract project details in both PDF and CSV formats. Furthermore, they can apply filters based on grant year, funding source, project county, and more. The integrated map dynamically reflects funded projects with corresponding symbology aligned with the pie chart. A clear symbology key is presented in the chart legend beneath the pie chart for seamless interpretation.

    To use the BRC Grant Funding Chart widget:
    • Click the BRC Grant Funding Chart widget in the sidebar
    • FTo enhance project selection, the BRC Grant Funding Chart widget offers a comprehensive filtering system. By default, the widget loads projects spanning all grant years and funding sources. It generates the pie chart according to project costs and funding sources, simultaneously plotting project locations on the map. Users have the freedom to determine their filters: they can choose to filter by grant year, funding source, or both in combination. This empowers users to tailor their view to specific criteria, optimizing their insights and analysis.
    • 1. Filter by Grant Year: Users have the option to select a specific grant year using the "Period" dropdown list. This dropdown list restricts the selection to a single option, allowing users to focus their analysis on a particular grant year of interest.
      By utilizing this feature, a summary, chart, and map will be generated to showcase grant projects exclusively linked to the chosen time frame. This facilitates a targeted and detailed exploration of projects for the selected grant year.
    • Filter by Funding Source: Users possess the capability to determine the funding sources they wish to visualize. This can be achieved through the use of funding source checkboxes, enabling multiple selections. This empowers users to focus on specific funding sources of interest, facilitating a nuanced analysis of project distribution.
      Upon implementing this filter, a summary, chart, and map will be generated to exhibit grant projects exclusively tied to the chosen funding sources. This approach enables users to gain insights into projects aligned specifically with the selected funding types, enhancing their understanding of the distribution and impact of different funding sources.
    • Filter by County: Users have the capability to filter projects based on specific counties. This can be easily accomplished by clicking on the map within a county boundary. A clear indication of a successful county filter is provided when the summary displays the name of the selected county instead of "State of Pennsylvania." This functionality streamlines the process of examining projects within a particular geographic area, enabling users to refine their analysis to a county level.
      Users are provided with the option to reset their county selections on the map by utilizing the "Reset Map" button. This feature ensures that users can easily undo their county filters and revert to the default view, enhancing the overall usability and flexibility of the filtering system.
    • Additional functions within the widget include:
    • Users are granted the ability to conceal the display of projects on maps. This can be accomplished by selecting the "Hide Project Locations" checkbox. This feature provides users with the flexibility to temporarily remove project locations from the map view, allowing them to focus on other aspects of analysis without the visual clutter of project markers.
    • Users are presented with the option to select the representation mode of the pie chart in either dollars ($) or total percentage (%). This choice can be made by using the selector button located at the top right corner of the chart. By adjusting this setting, users can customize their viewing experience to best suit their analytical needs, enabling them to comprehend funding distribution in a format that aligns with their preferences.
    • A seamless interaction between the pie chart and the map is enabled through the "Filter map via pie chart" feature. By clicking on a specific slice of the pie chart, users can instantly filter the map to display only the projects associated with that particular funding source or category. To revert the map to its original view, users can simply select the "Show All Grants" button, triggering a reset of the map's display. This integrated functionality enhances user exploration and analysis, promoting a dynamic understanding of the data presented.
    • The capability to generate reports in PDF format is provided to users through the "Create PDF" button. When no specific pie chart slices are selected, the generated report encompasses all project types. However, if a user chooses a particular pie chart slice, the report will be generated exclusively for that selected project type. This approach offers a tailored and focused report that aligns with the user's analysis. To return to the original view, users can select the "Show All Grants" button, effectively resetting the report generation. This feature empowers users to generate insightful and targeted reports based on their analysis requirements.

    Projects Mapped By District

    The District Search for Mapped Projects allows you to explore mapped projects within a specific area. This can be done either by defining a custom area or by choosing from predefined options available in a dropdown menu (such as County, Regional Offices, HUC Watersheds, and Conservation Landscapes). The search results are presented in a Results Table, providing a clear overview of the projects associated with the chosen geographical region.

    • Define Area: Users have the ability to specify a search area of their preference directly on the map using the provided drawing tools. This feature empowers users to precisely outline the geographic region they wish to explore, enhancing the accuracy and granularity of their search results.
    • Predefined Area: Users have the option to choose from predefined search areas using two dropdown selectors: Layer (which includes options like County, Regional Office, etc.) and Value (which includes specific choices such as Adams County, Regional Office 2, etc.). This streamlined approach facilitates the selection of a desired geographic region for exploring mapped projects.

    Searches

    Park Amenity Search


    The Park Amenity Search enables users to search for user specified activities and amenities within Pennsylvania State Parks. NOTE: the outer level checkbox selects ALL sublevel checkboxes.

    • Results are populated in the Results Table. Each record in the Results Table is selectable to zoom to the selected feature.

    Park ADA Amenity Search


    The Park ADA Amenity Search enables users to search for user specified activities and amenities that meet ADA requirements within Pennsylvania State Parks.

    • Results are populated in the Results Table. Each record in the Results Table is selectable to zoom to the selected feature.

    Forest Search


    The Forest Search enables users to search for Pennsylvania State Forests & individual assets within the commonwealth via a user defined area, or allows the user to find a specific asset by selecting a predefined asset from dropdowns. Results are displayed in the Results Table.

    To perform a state forest asset search, follow one of the following methods:

    • Define the area where you would like to search for PA State Forests: users can define a search area of their choice on the map using given draw tools.
    • Predefined: users can select a predefined PA State Forest Assets via the two drop down selectors: Layer (State Forests, District Offices, etc) & Value (Tuscarora, Elk, etc.). NOTE: Searching by county here will find all state forests within the selected county.
    • Results are populated in the Results Table. Each record in the Results Table is selectable to zoom to and view the extent of the selected feature.

    Forest ADA Amenity Search


    The Forest ADA Amenity Search enables users to search for user specified activities and amenities that meet ADA requirements within Pennsylvania State Forests.

    • Results are populated in the Results Table. Each record in the Results Table is selectable to zoom to the selected feature.

    PA Geologic Survey Information

    The PA Geologic Survey Info section guides users to the PA Geological Survey's web application PAGEODE.


    Searches

    Search Streams by Area


    The Search Streams by Area tool enables users to search for public streambeds via a user defined area, or by selecting a predefined area from dropdowns. Results are displayed in the Results Table.

    • Define Area: users can define a search area of their choice on the map using given draw tools.
    • Predefined Area: users can select a predefined search area via the two drop down selectors: Layer (County, HUC watershed) & Value (Adams County, Tuscarora Watershed, etc.).

    Search Streams by Text

    The Search Stream By Text enables users to search for public streambeds across the entire state PA via a free response text field (i.e. users can search for "Creek" to find all public streambeds in PA with the word Creek in their name) Results are displayed in the Results Table.


    Searches

    Antler Restrictions

    The Antler Restrictions widget displays Antler Restriction Rules.

    To use the Antler Restrictions widget:
    • Click the Antler Restrictions widget
    • Doing so will generate a summary and show Antler Restriction Rules in Table.

      Summary

      Antler Restriction Rules
    • On click of row in Table, it will highlight and zoom to Wildlife Management Units's.

    Hunting Hours

    The Hunting Hours widget depicts legal hunting hours for small and big games.

    To use the Hunting Hours widget:
    • Click the Hunting Hours widget
    • Select the date for which want to get Hunting Hours
    • Click on Get Hunting Hours
    • Doing so will show Hunting Hours on Map .

    Deer Harvest Statistics

    The Deer Harvest Statistics widget shows Statistics in three bar charts Antlerless Deer Harvest by Year, Antlered Deer Harvest by Year and Antlerless License Allocations by Year for the selected WMU.

    To use the Deer Harvest Statistics widget:
    • Click the Deer Harvest Statistics widget
    • Select the WMU for which want to get Deer Harvest Statistics
    • Doing so will show Deer Harvest Statistics .

    Seasons & Bag Limits

    The Seasons & Bag Limits widget shows Limits in Table.

    To use the Seasons & Bag Limits widget:
    • Click the Seasons & Bag Limits widget
    • Select Species, Season Type and check/uncheck today's Filter

    • Click on Search
    • Doing so will show Limits in Table.

    • On click of row in Table, it will highlight and zoom to Wildlife Management Units's.

    Settings and Tools

    The navigation controls for this application are located directly on the main map component as shown in the image below.

    Basemaps

    The Basemaps widget presents a gallery of basemaps, any one of which can be used as a background image on the map component. Simply left-click on the basemap you wish to display.


    Map Themes

    The Map Themes tool presents a gallery of popular maps that includes:


    • Coal Distribution
    • Oil and Gas Pools
    • Bedrock Geology
    • Surficial Geology
    • State Parks
    • State Forests
    • Bedrock Geology

    When one is chosen, the related data layers and it's corresponding basemap will turn on and all other layers will turn off. Simply left-click on the theme you wish to display on the map.

    Measurement

    The Measurement widget is used to measure the area of a drawn polygon or the length of a drawn line on the map.


    To measure distances:
    • Click the Distance measurement button
    • Mark the starting point of your line by clicking the left mouse button at that point on the map
    • Add waypoints with additional clicks of the left mouse button
    • Double-click the left mouse button to finish drawing the line
    • Notice that as you move the mouse away from the starting point, a menu appears that displays the units of measurement and the distance
    • You may change the units of measurement from the drop-down list in the menu at any time while setting your points, or you may change the units when the line is completed
    • To clear the line, click “New measurement” in the pop-up menu or select the trash can in the widget menu
    To measure areas:
    • Click the Area measurement button
    • Start your polygon on the map by clicking the left mouse button on the map
    • Move the mouse to your next point and left-click again
    • Select three or more points in this fashion to draw a polygon
    • Double-click the left mouse button to finish drawing the polygon
    • Notice that as you move the mouse towards the third point, a menu appears that displays the units of measurement and the area
    • You may change the units of measurement from the drop-down list in the menu at any time while setting your points, or you may change the units when the polygon is completed
    • To clear the polygon, click “New measurement” in the pop-up menu or select the trash can in the widget menu

    Swipe

    The swipe tool allows you to choose one basemap and one or more data layers to compare to your map display by swiping (or sliding) a vertical bar across the map.



    In the Swipe menu:
    • Expand the Basemaps list and pick the basemap you want to display
    • Expand the Layer List and pick the data layer(s) you want to display
    • Click on “Start Swipe” at the bottom of the Swipe Tool menu
    • A vertical bar will appear on the map
    • Position your mouse over the bar and it will display two outward-pointing arrows
    • Hold the left mouse button down and move the mouse to drag the vertical bar to the right or left
    • The basemap and layer you chose in the swipe menu appear on the right side of the bar
    • The data layers and basemap from your map layers and basemap settings will appear on the left side of the bar
    • When finished with your exploration of the data, click “Stop Swipe”

    Annotate

    With the Annotate widget, you can annotate the map with drawing tools located across the bottom row of the Annotate menu:


    • Add points
    • Draw lines and shapes
    • Add text

    Selecting a tool will open a corresponding style under the drawing tools that allow you to choose colors, sizes, line weights, and so on, as appropriate to the item being added.

    In the style menu for the point tool, you can enter a lat/long to move your point to a specific location.

    The left side of the top row of the Annotate widget has feature selection tools that allow you to grab and move or select an annotation item for style changes. The right side of the top row has undo and redo choices.

    Search Results Table

    The collapsible search result tables that appear at the bottom of the screen allow users to review data associated with searched elements. The tables are custom built to allow user interaction, including the following:


    • Choose which fields to display using the Show/Hide Columns button
    • Sort results alphabetically / numerically
      (click the up-down SortBy arrows in a column heading)
    • Filter / Search results with free text
      (click the funnel icon in a column heading)
    • Export results to a CSV file
    • Clear any previously set filters and sorting by clicking on the refresh arrow
    • Close the results table
      (click on the “x” to the right of the table name in the upper left tab)
    • Click on a record to zoom to and highlight the selected feature on the map

    Print

    The Print tool in the left sidebar allows users to create a map in a choice of several file formats. Clicking the blue Export button near the bottom of the Print widget screen will generate the specified map and place the file in the underlying list of exported files. Selecting the file will open it in your browser to be viewed, downloaded, or printed as desired.


    There are two tabs for the print function: Layout and Map Only. The Layout option will allow for the addition of a legend, north arrow, map title, and author. The Map Only option will only print the map without those elements.

    If printing with the Layout tab, then the following inputs are available:
    • Title: Title to appear over the map and to be used as a file name in the exported files list.
    • Page setup: Drop-down list of page sizes (American National and International Standards) and orientations (i.e., portrait or landscape)
    • File format: Drop-down list of several raster and vector file formats
    If printing with the Map Only tab, then the following inputs are available:
    • File name: Name to be used as a file name in the exported files list
    • File format: Drop-down list of several raster and vector file formats
    • Width: Desired width (in pixels) of the created map (dividing by the DPI will give the width in inches)
    • Height: Desired height (in pixels) of the created map (dividing by the DPI will give the height in inches)
    The advanced options menu allows for additional choices. Click on the downward arrow to expand the menu. Then fill in the categories below:
    • Set Scale: This is the desired scale for the created map as represented by the scale ratio’s denominator and should be entered to the nearest whole number
      • A scale denominator cannot be entered in the text box unless the box beside “Set scale” is checked
      • If unchecked, the map will be created close to the scale shown by the map view
      • The scale of the map on the application screen can be viewed by clicking the refresh-arrows symbol beside the set-scale text box
      • The created map extent will depend on the scale chosen and the paper size
      • The created map will be centered on what is visible on the screen
      • If the set scale is outside of the zoom-level range for displaying a data layer visible on the map screen, then the data will not show on the created map
      • On a map created with Layout, a scale ratio over a scale bar will be shown on the right side immediately under the lower bottom edge of the map
    • Author: Entered text will appear in the lower right corner of the created map (only available with Layout)
    • Copyright: Entered text will appear under the Author text in the lower right corner of the created map (only available with Layout)
    • DPI: desired dots per inch (resolution) for the created map
    • Include legend: If checked, this will show a legend for the map (only available with Layout)
    • Include north arrow: If checked, this will show a north arrow on the map (only available with Layout)
    • Include attribution: If checked, this will show abbreviations or full names of organizations providing information shown on the map (only available as an option with Map Only—attributions always show in the lower right corner of the created map with the Layout option)

    Download Data

    This left sidebar widget lets users know that they can download data via the PA DCNR Authoritative Geospatial Open Data website. It provides a link to the website, which is located at

    Pa Open Data Portal

    This left sidebar widget lets users know that they can download data via the PA DEP Authoritative Geospatial Open Data website. It provides a link to the website, which is located at

    PA Open Data Portal

    Bookmarks

    The Bookmark component is designed to save the current state of the map, including the extent or zoom level, visible layers, and the current selected basemap. Additionally, it captures a screenshot of the current map.

    Creating Bookmarks

    1. Navigate to the desired location on the map and set the desired zoom level, visible layers, and basemap.
    2. Click on the 'Add Bookmark' button to open the bookmark creation dialog.
    3. Enter a title (up to 25 characters) and a description (up to 50 characters) for the bookmark.
    4. Click 'Save' to create the bookmark.
    5. Bookmarks are stored in your browsers database, they are not cleared when you clear your cache.
    6. Bookmarks are browser specific, in other words bookmarks stored in Chrome are not available in Edge or Firefox.
    7. To permanently save a Bookmarks, export it and save the file. Follow Exporting Bookmarks in the following section.

    Exporting Bookmarks

    1. Click on the 'Export Bookmarks' button.
    2. Select a location to save the bookmark file (JSON format).
    3. Share the exported bookmark file with other users, who can then import the bookmarks into their application.
    4. Note: Sharing is best when used between the same maps, as applications have different layers

    Importing Bookmarks

    1. Click on the 'Import Bookmarks' button.
    2. Select the bookmark file (JSON format) you received from another user or previously exported.
    3. The imported bookmarks will be added to your list of bookmarks.

    Clearing your Cache and Bookmarks

    1. Clearing your cache will not clear your bookmarks.

    Deleting Bookmarks

    1. Locate the bookmark you wish to delete from the list of bookmarks.
    2. Click on the 'Delete' button next to the bookmark.
    3. Confirm the deletion when prompted.

    Note: Deleted bookmarks cannot be recovered.

    Citation

    Pennsylvania Geological Survey, 2023, PaGEODE—Pennsylvania geologic data exploration: Pennsylvania Geological Survey, 4th ser., https://gis.dcnr.pa.gov/pageode/. [Accessed on ]

    Contact

    To ask questions or to report issues found with the application, please use the Feedback functionality found at the top of a computer screen and in the menu of a mobile device. You will receive an emailed reply.

    If you have any questions that are not covered in this help documentation, or find an issue with the documentation, please send an email to CEDCGIS@pa.gov