Government officials are tasked by their constituents with making sound, responsible decisions. These decisions rely on solid information about the issues and officials are increasingly using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze this information. VGIN is mandated by the Code of Virginia to create and maintain a repository of information about geographic data that is available in the Commonwealth. The Virginia Metadata portal fills that mandate.
The Virginia Metadata Portal is located on the Internet at http://gisdata.virginia.gov. The portal has an easy to use search utility to help you find the data you want. The portal contains metadata records, a type of “index card,” that describe data available from state agencies and local governments in Virginia. Each record will accurately describe the data, its use, any limitations with the data, and how to obtain that particular data set. Though it is very easy to use, VGIN has created a step-by-step manual (DOC) to guide new users through all the features of the portal.
All Virginia state agencies, local governments and higher education institutions are eligible to publish metadata to GISData.Virginia.Gov for data that they own and maintain. Learn how to request publishing status here (DOC).
For more information contact Lyle Hornbaker of VGIN.