Services

Customized Mapping

Orbis develops enhanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to create visual layers of disparate data to identify important environmental, archaeological, or historical features in the landscape - features that may present threats or opportunities for your project. Enhanced GIS digitizes the due diligence process by taking data, research and reports from all parties involved and combining them into one comprehensive, visual, dynamic database. Information is updated and changed on the fly as it becomes available.

The pink area is the location of a development site layered transparently over an 1882 property and utility map. Since these two layers are tied together in 'real space', it is possible to better discern where old water mains might lay, historic property ownership and what activities took place in specific areas.

Predictive Modeling

Orbis also provides predictive models to identify potentially significant historic or archaeological sites within a development area. We incorporate environmental data - soils, wetlands, aquifers, etc., - as well as the location of EPA-regulated discharge sites, and will help you identify potential environmental hazards -- both contemporary and historical.

This is the same development site shown above with potential historical environmental hazards layered on top. Predicting the location of contaminated soils is more accurate. Knowing where historic pollution sources and discharge sites are located allows a better idea when quantifying potential liability.

Land Use Investigations & Historical Forensics

Orbis provides a wide range of data that includes known historical resources - areas listed in the National Register of Historic Places, or identified as significant by state and local authorities - as well as potential historical resources, and will help you identify risks of infringement on these resources.

The development site from above is now layered on a portion of the 1776 Debarres Chart. Understanding that the site is partially on original land and partially on land-fill, we can better prepare for soil and bedrock differences early in the planning process.

The green dots represent historical register sites. The historic map also shows the locations of the first houses, streets agricultural activities making the prediction of potential archaeological resources more accurate. This knowledge helps when presenting plans to historic preservation boards. Enhanced GIS streamlines the planning process by bringing stakeholders everything they need in visual format before pencil ever touches paper.