Abstract

Spatial Journalism in Support of Citizen Science
Track: Media
Authors: Tierney O'Dea Booker

A new law in Texas aims to ban aerial photography by UAVs over private land, in defense of individual privacy. However, private land accounts for 94% of Texas. ArcGIS visualized the spatial reality of this law and the threat it poses to citizen science & data gathering in the public interest. Analysis reveals UAVs can operate safely according to the FAA, outside of populated areas to gather crucial info. The project demonstrates the potential for ArcGIS as a digital journalism & advocacy tool.