Pennsylvania DCNR Offering Open Data Website; Affords Users Detailed, Easily Accessible Information

STATE COLLEGE, Pa., May 13, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaking Thursday night before an annual, statewide gathering of  environmental professionals, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn unveiled her department's innovative move to offer detailed, easily accessible information to all.

"In line with Gov. Tom Wolf's call for transparent, easily accessible government, DCNR is offering an Open Data site that should prove invaluable to this audience of science-based, data-driven environmental professionals," Dunn told more than 100 members of the Pa. Association of Environmental Professionals. "I urge you all to take advantage of this new service."

"Governor Wolf's recent announcement that Pennsylvania is joining the open data movement -- and that DCNR is at the forefront -- will lead to exciting opportunities -- not only for environmental professionals, but for the media, students, academia, taxpayers, businesses. The list is endless."

The department's open data move was outlined to the association during the secretary's keynote membership address, during which she outlined DCNR's six new major initiatives focusing on water, energy efficient buildings, forests, climate, recreation and youth.

"DCNR is pursuing some very exciting and innovative efforts and programs in line with these initiatives," Dunn told PAEP members, "and our Open Data efforts will enable you to track our progress."

In addition, Dunn said:

• The site will provide direct access to DCNR public GIS data, including well over 100 sets of data;
• Users can connect to the data from any device or platform; create their own maps and reports; and add to their own applications;
• This is a major increase in efficiency for us and DCNR partners/constituents, who rely on its information, as well as an improved tool for collaborative work;
• Most of the data accessed through the site is updated on a daily basis making the information more reliable;
• This data is the basis for DCNR's highly used interactive maps which are highlighted and accessible via a map gallery in the Open Data site;
• Emphasis is on easily available and transparent information.

To access the Open Data site, visit http://data.dcnr.opendata.arcgis.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT: Terry Brady, 717-772-9101, [email protected]

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Related Links

http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us