Abstract

GIS uses to Serve Communities in Modern Day Gold Rush
Track: Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater
Authors: Lucas Rengstorf

The oil boom in western North Dakota has created a frenzy of industrial activity and economic development. Since the area infrastructure could not handle this growth, the Western Area Water Supply Authority was developed to create a regional water system. Initially ArcGIS was an effective tool to visually communicate the need for the project. Once WAWSA received the green light, hundreds of easements had to be secured prior to pipeline installation under an aggressive schedule. This project shows the value of GIS. Data driven pages and several geoprocessing tools made it quick and efficient to get exhibits and estimated payment amounts to the land acquisition team. Within ArcGIS (InfoWater) pipeline sizes and capacities where modeled for this vast system. Land management documents where hyperlinked to proper features making GIS a one shop stop. Web-based and mobile capabilities of ArcGIS Online painted a live interactive picture of the project.