As my GIS map shows, there is a plethora of different land analysis that must be considered in order to build something as controversial as a landfill. Landfills can contain dangerous chemicals and materials and can be dangerous to nearby human populations and the land itself. The data for the analysis is real and must be taken seriously. The data can be used by local and federal governments along with land-use planners in order to figure out the best place to put a new landfill.
In this GIS lab I analyzed the slope of elevation of the land, distance of already in place landfills, soil drainage, proximity to streams, and land cover. Once I analyzed all of these different unique aspects of the surrounding landscape, I was able to make a final analysis in order to collaborate the information and allow for an informed decision to be made.
As the article "Feinstein, Boxer call for delay on plans to expand Central Valley Landfill" shows placing a landfill, or in the article expanding a landfill, is a complicated process that may affect communities daily lives. In the article California senators Boxer and Feinstein want to delay the expansion of a central valley landfill so that a inquiry can be made about the birth defects and deaths of local children that live in communities near the landfill. The landfill questions these allegations and claims that their landfill has nothing to do with birth defects.
GIS maps, like the ones I made in the lab, can be used to help solve this problem. If real data is given then it is possible to map the area round the landfill and which areas it possibly affects. If the information shows that there is no way that the landfill radiation or pollution reaches the community then they shouldn't be punished. If the data shows there is a high probability that the community is affected then they should take responsibility. Although the company denies their involvement, they have been fined by the EPA for previous violations. Also, GIS can be used to be used to figure out the best place for the expansion of the landfill and the effects it will have to local land and communities.
GIS is vital to solving real world problems like these. Analyzing individual land data then combining it to make a comprehensive report is crucial to the decision making process. Toxic waste companies should use GIS before expanding or creating new landfills in cooperation with local authorities in order to make the best decisions. GIS gives an objective analysis of information that can be easily presented.
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