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The Montana Association of Geographic Information Professionals (MAGIP) looks forward to your participation at this year’s 2025 Big Sky GeoCon!
Monday, April 14
 

8:00am MDT

You have LiDAR in your area—Now What? (1/2 Day AM)
Monday April 14, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Description: 
Your city, county and state has lidar available. Lidar is a key foundation dataset that can help inform decisions of land managers, but it often goes unused. Whether you need to locate exactly where your culverts are, create an enhanced hydrography dataset to map water flow, find closed depressions for water quality studies, analyze slopes for ordinance review, or you need to assess the risk of soil erosion vulnerability, analysis of LiDAR can put your data to work to help derive answers for departments across your organization. In this workshop, we will discuss lidar base specifications in the state, dive into detailed lidar derivatives and then look at some solutions you can produce so you can start planning for your projects today.



 
Presenters
TK

Tyler Kaebisch

Geospatial Project Manager, Ayres
Tyler Kaebisch is a Geospatial Project Manager with Ayres. He has managed small and large-scale projects that apply remote sensing techniques to analyze features across the landscape.
Monday April 14, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop
  • Host Organization MAGIP

8:00am MDT

Intro to Experience Builder (Full Day)
Monday April 14, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Description:
Intended Audience: This course is intended for students who have some knowledge of ArcGIS Online and are looking to expand on their understanding of how to create interactive, online applications. Though it is recommended that students have some experience in developing online map applications, it is not necessary. No scripting skills necessary.

Software and Licenses: Students need to have their own computer hardware and an ArcGIS Online Creator user-type or higher with a valid login.
Course Modules:
  • Module 1: Introduction to Experience Builder and a comparison with Web AppBuilder
  • Module 2: Experience-Builder Basics and Creating an Experience from a Template
  • Module 3: Exploring Style and Content Settings for Customizing Widgets
  • Module 4: Configuring Dynamic Widget Interactions, Triggers, and Actions
  • Module 5: Mobile Optimization for Varied Screen Sizes
  • Module 6: Manage Your Experience and Create a Template

Summary:
This full-day course focuses on Experience Builder, highlighting how it is different from Web AppBuilder and detailing its advanced capabilities. You will explore the extensive list of well-refined templates that can be used out-of-the-box or reshaped and customized to fit the needs of your project. The course will dive into style and content settings for dynamic widgets, how to build an Experience from a template or a blank canvas and how to add widget actions and triggers to create an even more dynamic application for your target audience. You will learn how to optimize your Experience for mobile screen viewing so that users can access your application from a single, intelligent URL. Finally, you will learn a few tips for managing your Experiences and templates.
Course exercises will give you the hands-on experience you need to get familiar with the layout, customization capabilities and functionality that will have you quickly building your own Experiences beyond the classroom.
Pair this course with our Intermediate Experience Builder course to build an even stronger foundation in your Experience-Builder expertise and skillset.


Presenters
avatar for Kara Utter

Kara Utter

GIS Consultant and Owner, Dynamic Visions GIS
GIS Consultant and owner of Dynamic Visions GIS. With over 10 years of experience in GIS, I have worked with local, state, and federal government entities, as well as the nonprofit and private sectors. I spent the last five years building and coordinating a County-level GIS program... Read More →
Monday April 14, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

8:00am MDT

Introduction to Python Programming (Full Day)
Monday April 14, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Technology requirements: Must bring your own laptop. Instructions for setting up the required software will be provided prior to the workshop.
Description: 
Python is now regarded as one of the most popular programming languages of all, if not the most popular. This is especially true for GIS-related requirements, with Python being front and central when it comes to making the most of the ArcGIS technology suite. This workshop will provide an introduction to Python programming without reference to GIS topics, but with an emphasis on preparing attendees for further learning with respect to GIS scripting and development. The workshop will also be helpful for anyone wishing to use Python for other purposes.
Three topics will be covered in the workshop: (1) getting started with Python; (2) the use of JetBrains PyCharm Community Edition, a rich, powerful, and free Integrated Development Environment (IDE); and (3) Python fundamentals, including functions, classes and objects, and error handling.
Intended Audience: Anyone wishing to learn the fundamentals of Python programming.
Prerequisite Requirements: There are no prerequisite requirements. It will be assumed that attendees have little experience with Python or are starting from scratch.
Associated Workshop: Completion of this workshop is required for anyone wishing to attend the associated "Introduction to ArcGIS Data Management Using Python" workshop. An exception to this requirement will be made if the instructor is satisfied that your level of Python experience is such that attending the introductory workshop is not necessary. If required, please contact the instructor to request a waiver. 
Format and Technical Requirements: The workshop will consist of a balance between lecture material and demonstrations, forming the basis for a flexible and interactive training approach. There will be plenty of time for discussion and experimentation, which will result in a rich and rewarding experience for everyone involved.
 
Presenters
avatar for David Howes

David Howes

David Howes, LLC
David Howes is a geospatial information scientist and the sole owner at David Howes, LLC (dhowes.com [dhowes.com]) in Seattle, WA, specializing in the development of GIS tools, processes, and supporting infrastructure for a variety of clients from small operations to multinational corporations. David has over 30 years of academic and private sector experience in both the United Kingdom and the Uni... Read More →
Monday April 14, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

8:00am MDT

Mastering ArcGIS Pro 3.x: Maps, Layers, Projects and Layouts (1.5 Days)
Monday April 14, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Description: 
Intended Audience: This course is intended for those new to ArcGIS Pro or students migrating from ArcGIS Desktop that wish to learn the basic skills needed to create and print maps. It teaches the foundational skills needed for new users. No previous experience with ArcGIS Pro or GIS is required.
Software and Licenses: Students will need to be assigned an ArcGIS Pro 3.x Basic or higher license from their organization prior to class which can be accessed from the web. This should be verified prior to the start of class.
Course Modules:
  • Module 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro
  • Module 2: Understanding the ArcGIS Pro Interface
  • Module 3: Working with 2D Maps and Layers
  • Module 4: Creating and Using Selection Sets
  • Module 5: Working with Tables
  • Module 6: Creating ArcGIS Pro Projects
  • Module 7: Working with Layouts

Summary:
In this 2 day course the student will learn the fundamentals of using ArcGIS Pro 3.x. To begin the class you’ll learn the fundamentals of using the new ribbon-based interface associated with ArcGIS Pro. Next, you’ll learn how to open projects and understand the variety of content types that can be added to a project including maps, layouts, styles, connections to data sources, and more. You’ll also learn how to create 2D maps and add a variety of basemaps and layers to those maps. We’ll also cover a wide variety of ways that layers can be symbolized and styled. Another topic we’ll cover is how to create and use selection sets associated with feature layers. You’ll also learn how to add stand-alone tables to maps and use the functionality found in the table view. Finally, we’ll cover how to create presentation quality layouts for your maps and content.
Monday April 14, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

8:00am MDT

Working with Gridded Climate Data in Python (Full Day)
Monday April 14, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Description: Climate data come from a variety of sources, including remote weather stations, satellite platforms, and earth system models. Accurate temperature, precipitation, soil moisture, and other climate data are critical for many professions, including urban planning, resource management, agriculture, and energy production systems. However, the increasing diversity, complexity, and size of these datasets can make them difficult to work with. Creating decision-ready products from raw climate data also requires transparent, reproducible workflows that can be updated as requirements change. In this workshop, based in the Python programming language, we introduce participants to NASA’s free-to-use climate datasets, demonstrating how to search for, access, and manipulate satellite-based and modeled data on air temperature, precipitation, soil moisture, and humidity, among many potential climate variables. Participants will be introduced to hierarchical data formats, including HDF5 and netCDF4, along with the xarray library in Python. Our workshop offers hands-on experience with subsetting, resampling, and visualizing spatial data cubes: gridded climate variables that vary over space and time.

 
Presenters
AE
Monday April 14, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop
  • Host Organization MAGIP

12:00pm MDT

Lunch on Own
Monday April 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
On your own
Monday April 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
On your own
  Lunch

1:00pm MDT

Field Data Collection for Asset Management (1/2 Day PM)
Monday April 14, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Description: This seminar provides a comprehensive introduction to geospatial concepts, methodologies, and cutting-edge geotechnologies, equipping attendees with the skills needed to optimize field data collection and management. Participants will explore: 
  • ArcGIS Field Mobility Apps and their practical applications
  • ArcGIS Online for preparing feature layers, sharing data, and visualizing findings via web maps
  • Fundamentals of GNSS, including horizontal and vertical datums and map projections
  • Best practices for safe, efficient data collection and field mapping.

Intended Audience: This workshop is ideal for individuals interested in leveraging GPS technology for field data collection. Whether you are a beginner or seeking to refine your skills, no prior mapping experience is required.
Presenters
NG
Monday April 14, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

5:30pm MDT

MAGIP Meet Up - Sponsored by Terracon
Monday April 14, 2025 5:30pm - 8:00pm MDT
MT Ascension Brewing
Join us for the Monday Night Meet up at MT Ascension Brewing!
Enjoy a complimentary beer and light snacks courtesy of Terracon!

Monday April 14, 2025 5:30pm - 8:00pm MDT
MT Ascension Brewing
  Event
 
Tuesday, April 15
 

8:00am MDT

Mastering ArcGIS Pro 3.x: Maps, Layers, Projects and Layouts (1.5 Days)
Tuesday April 15, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Presenters
avatar for Eric Pimpler

Eric Pimpler

Founder & Owner, GeoSpatial Training Services
Since 2005, we've provided high quality GIS training and consulting services to local, state, and federal government agencies and private companies. Our training classes focus on Esri and open source GIS technologies and are taught in a variety of formats including classroom, live-online... Read More →
Tuesday April 15, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

8:00am MDT

Drone Part 107 (Full Day)
Tuesday April 15, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Participant Requirements or Pre-requisites: There are no pre-requisites or prior UAS or FAA knowledge required. 
Required Software or Hardware: Laptops are not required. This will be lecture and discussion, so the only recommendation is to bring a notebook and pen. The workshop slides will be sent out to the participants, so you don’t need to write everything down. 
Description:
The course is designed to prepare attendees to pass the FAA’s Small Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Part 107 test to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate. It will cover aeronautical knowledge including the FAA regulations relating to UAS aircraft systems, operating requirements, and procedures for safely flying UAS. The class will cover the following topics:
  • Regulations relating to UAS rating privileges, limitations, and flight operations
  • Airspace classification and flight restrictions affecting UAS operations
  • Aviation weather sources and effects of weather on UAS performance
  • UAS loading and performance
  • Emergency procedures, Crew resource management, Radio communication procedures
  • Physiological effects of drugs and alcohol
  • Airport operations and aeronautical decision-making and judgment
  • Maintenance and preflight inspection procedures
  • Operation at night and over people
After the course, attendees will have the option to sign up and take the FAA part 107 UAS Unmanned Pilot Ground Exam ($175 exam fee) for FAA certification at multiple approved test locations at airports in Montana (Kalispell, Missoula, Belgrade, Great Falls and Billings). 

 
Presenters
BB
JC

Jeremy Crowley

Autonomous Aerial Systems Office (AASO) at University of Montana
Jeremy Crowley is the Director of the Autonomous Aerial Systems Office (AASO) at the University of Montana (UM). He has worked in the private sector, state and federal agencies, and academia for over 20 years mostly focusing on geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing... Read More →
Tuesday April 15, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

8:00am MDT

GIS for NG9-1-1 and Addressing (Full Day)
Tuesday April 15, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Required Software or Hardware: The Montana State Library will provide a computer lab with sample data. Participants are welcome to bring their own data and computer with ArcGIS Pro.
Description:
A full day lecture and hands on training for GIS addressing and becoming NG9-1-1 GIS compliant for local GIS professionals. The Montana State Library will be bringing its computer lab with sample data. You are welcome to bring your own data and computer with ArcGIS Pro . This training will focus on strong data management, constancy, MSL’s 9-1-1 GIS Data Validation and Aggregation Portal and other tools that are available to you.
Morning Session
NG9-1-1 The GIS Data
  • NENA Required, Recommended, Optional Layers and Fields
  • Basic Topological Requirements
  • Legacy Data Requirements MSAG and ALI
  • Domains
Planning for success
  • Data Infrastructure, Database Locations, and Schemas
  • Data Transformations
Data Maintenance and sharing
  • Hacking ESRI’s Address Management Solution
  • Locators and data dissemination tools
Afternoon Session
Montana GIS Data Validation and Aggregation Portal - Getting Started
  • Getting started
  • Running your first validation
  • Fixing issues and managing validation results
  • Exceptions
Montana GIS Data Validation and Aggregation Portal - Advanced topics
  • Legacy Data Checks
  • Multiple Layer Validations
  • Data Aggregation
  • Master Sessions
1Spatial ArcGIS Plug-in Submission Manager
  • Using ArcGIS Plug-in for full functionality of portal from within ArcGIS Pro
 
Presenters
avatar for Michael Fashoway

Michael Fashoway

GIS Land Information Lead, Montana State Library
Michael Fashoway is the GIS Land Information Lead at the Montana State Library where he leads the development and maintenance of Administrative Boundaries, Cadastral, Mapping Control, Structures/Addresses, and Transportation MSDI themes. He is also active in a state and... Read More →
avatar for Bob Cochran

Bob Cochran

Montana State Library
I am in my second year as a 9-1-1 GIS Analysist at the Montana State Library where my duties are primarily supporting statewide 9-1-1 GIS needs. Bob came to the State Library in late 2021 after 5 years at Montana Department of Justice and 10 years at Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks... Read More →
Tuesday April 15, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

8:00am MDT

Intermediate Experience Builder (Full Day)
Tuesday April 15, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Description: 
Intended Audience: This course is intended for students who have some knowledge of ArcGIS Online and have already taken Introduction to Experience Builder or have been working in the application builder a little and want to take their skills to the next level. No scripting skills necessary.
Software and Licenses: Students need to have their own computer hardware and an ArcGIS Online Creator user-type with a Role of Publisher or higher.
Course Modules:
  • Module 1: Review Experience Builder Interface Navigation Tips and Tricks
  • Module 2: Managing Data Connections and Data Views
  • Module 3: Using Sections and Views
  • Module 4: Configure Dynamic Content, Related Tables, and Actions
  • Module 5: Using the 3D Toolbox and Elevation Profile

Summary:
This full-day course takes you through the process of building a highly dynamic application utilizing sections and views, related tables, dynamic content, 3D toolboxes, and more. Our introductory course was created to help instill muscle memory for navigating the Experience Builder interface, which is quite different from any of ESRI’s other application builders. With this new course, we take you through the steps necessary to build a high-level application that will impress your managers, users, and clients.
Course exercises will give you the hands-on experience you need to create interactive and dynamic functionality that provides flexibility for your users and information-rich applications.
Presenters
avatar for Kara Utter

Kara Utter

GIS Consultant and Owner, Dynamic Visions GIS
GIS Consultant and owner of Dynamic Visions GIS. With over 10 years of experience in GIS, I have worked with local, state, and federal government entities, as well as the nonprofit and private sectors. I spent the last five years building and coordinating a County-level GIS program... Read More →
Tuesday April 15, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

8:00am MDT

Introduction to ArcGIS Data Management Using Python (Full Day)
Tuesday April 15, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Technology requirements: Bring your own laptop. Instructions for setting up the required software will be provided prior to the workshop.
Description: 
ArcGIS Pro allows users to meet data management requirements, such as creating, reading, loading, updating, and deleting feature classes and tables, manually using geoprocessing tools, editing operations, and data manipulation functionality. While this may work well for small datasets, it can become unwieldy as the number of values and number of required operations increases. This is where Python comes in, especially when accompanied by an appreciation for the value of well-crafted and versatile code. Being able to streamline and automate workflows can save significant amounts of time and effort, can increase confidence in outcomes, and can provide a valuable record of how and when processes have been run.
The purpose of this workshop is to teach attendees how to use Python and the ArcPy site package to support data management workflows via the ArcGIS Pro Python Window and scripts that that can be run within ArcGIS Pro or externally. Topics to be covered include the use of data management geoprocessing tools, cursors, and core Python data structures. Consideration will also be given to the importance of clean, descriptive, and reusable code. For script development, attendees may use either of two Integrated Development Environment (IDE) programs: JetBrains PyCharm Community Edition or Microsoft Visual Studio Code (both free).
Intended Audience: GIS professionals familiar with ArcGIS Pro and Python and wishing to manage ArcGIS data in a flexible and efficient manner.
Prerequisite Requirement: Anyone wishing to attend this workshop must also attend the associated workshop, "Introduction to Python Programming." An exception to this requirement will be made if the instructor is satisfied that your level of Python experience is such that attending the introductory workshop is not necessary. If required, please contact the instructor to request a waiver.
Format and Technical Requirements: The workshop will consist of a balance between lecture material and demonstrations, which forms the basis for a flexible and interactive training approach. There will be plenty of time for discussion and experimentation, which will result in a rich and rewarding experience for everyone involved.
Presenters
avatar for David Howes

David Howes

David Howes, LLC
David Howes is a geospatial information scientist and the sole owner at David Howes, LLC (dhowes.com [dhowes.com]) in Seattle, WA, specializing in the development of GIS tools, processes, and supporting infrastructure for a variety of clients from small operations to multinational corporations. David has over 30 years of academic and private sector experience in both the United Kingdom and the Uni... Read More →
Tuesday April 15, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

12:00pm MDT

Lunch on Own
Tuesday April 15, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
On your own
Tuesday April 15, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
On your own
  Lunch

1:00pm MDT

Intro to ArcGIS Online (1/2 Day PM)
Tuesday April 15, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Workshop format: Lecture, followed up by hands-on instruction.
Technology requirements: Bring your own laptop.
Participant requirements: Workshop provides temporary ArcGIS Online licenses.
Description: 
This workshop is designed for people who want an introduction to the basic concepts of ArcGIS Online. The workshop provides an overview of what users can do in ArcGIS Online such as quickly turning data into valuable information by creating intelligent interactive web maps and sharing them privately or publicly. ArcGIS Online provides a platform that enables users to make spatial data available through an interactive web map, a web app, story map and a mobile app without the need for programming. This means it is accessible to users any time on any operating system. You will learn some of the uses of ArcGIS Online including: using an interactive map, creating an interactive map, adding your own data, configuring the map display and creating an app. By the end of this workshop, you will be able to create your own interactive map and app and share it with others.

Presenters
BK

Brian Klapstein

Brian Klapstein is a Geospatial Analyst for the Montana Department of Transportation. His main duties include ArcGIS Online/Portal administration and project manager for the annual Fuel Tax/Field Inventory programs. Prior to this position he was a GIS Analyst for the petroleum industry... Read More →
ER

Ethan Ritzen

Ethan Ritzen is a Geospatial Analyst for the Montana Department of Transportation. His main duties include custom and standard map creation, as well as management of various GIS datasets and projects. Prior to this position, Ethan was a Geospatial Analyst for an environmental consulting... Read More →
Tuesday April 15, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

1:00pm MDT

Large-Scale Mobile Mapping for Pavement Inspection Analysis & Oriented Imagery in ESRI
Tuesday April 15, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
More information comingn soon.....
Tuesday April 15, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

5:00pm MDT

Poster/Map Gallery & Sponsor Showcase
Tuesday April 15, 2025 5:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Natatorium
Tuesday April 15, 2025 5:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Natatorium
  Reception
 
Wednesday, April 16
 

8:00am MDT

Official Welcome & Conference Kick-off
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:00am - 8:20am MDT
Ballroom
Presenters
GJ

Gail Jorgensen

MAGIP President
AS

Andy Shirtliff

Helena City Commissioner
avatar for Jeff Hedstrom

Jeff Hedstrom

GIS Analyst, Montana State Library
Jeff Hedstrom is a GIS Analyst/Cadastral Theme Lead at the Montana State Library (MSL) and Past President on the MAGIP Board of Directors. His primary focus at MSL includes maintaining the Cadastral and CadNSDI datasets within the MSDI framework as well as maintaining metadata collections... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:00am - 8:20am MDT
Ballroom
  Event

8:00am MDT

Hands on Learning Lab
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:00am - Thursday April 17, 2025 3:30pm MDT
Montana Room
The Hands-On Learning Lab is a training resource provided and developed by Esri Training Services. The lab is an excellent way to introduce or refine your skills related to Esri solutions and training opportunities while learning to use Esri software. As part of the Big Sky GeoCon, there is no charge for you to utilize and benefit from the learning lab!
 

Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:00am - Thursday April 17, 2025 3:30pm MDT
Montana Room
  Workshop

8:20am MDT

Transition
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:20am - 8:25am MDT
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:20am - 8:25am MDT

8:25am MDT

Demographic and Economic Data for GIS Mapping and Analysis in Montana
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:25am - 8:55am MDT
Lewis Room
This presentation will explore demographic and economic data for geographic areas in Montana. We will walk through the most accurate and useful data sets from the U.S. Census Bureau Decennial Census and American Community Survey. We will provide guidance on the usability of data at varying geographic levels (ex. block, city, county). Finally, we will review the best resources for obtaining and using tabular and GIS-enabled data including the U.S Census Bureau, ESRI Living Atlas via ArcGIS Online and the Montana Department of Commerce. 
Presenters
avatar for Dave Ritts

Dave Ritts

GIS Analyst, Montana Department of Commerce
Dave Ritts is a GIS Analyst with the Montana Department of Commerce.  He primarily works with demographic and economic data and maintains dashboards, web pages and databases for the Census and Economic Information Center (CEIC).  He has previously worked as a GIS Analyst for Oregon... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:25am - 8:55am MDT
Lewis Room
  Census

8:25am MDT

Yaak Valley Restoration Projects: GIS Assessment and Design
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:25am - 8:55am MDT
Clark Room
Vital Ground Foundation retained River Design Group to assess the ecological restoration potential of two properties within the Cabinet-Yaak Grizzly Bear Recovery Zone in Northwest Montana, to improve native riparian, wetland, and forest habitat. A GIS-based assessment was completed which provided a framework for identification of restoration approaches. Spatial analysis included historical aerial photo analysis and quantification of landscape-level changes since the 1940’s, and LiDAR data analysis which identified relict habitat features. Restoration actions were recommended, and preferred alternatives were clarified through cartography. Two river and wetland restoration projects were constructed in Fall 2024 utilizing GPS-enabled heavy equipment in construction. 
Presenters
avatar for Selita Ammondt

Selita Ammondt

GIS Analyst, River Design Group, Inc./SWCA
Ms. Ammondt is a GIS Analyst and Restoration Ecologist at River Design Group based in Whitefish, MT, a private consulting firm offering stream and wetland restoration and water resources engineering services. Selita specializes in geospatial analysis and cartography, and ecological... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:25am - 8:55am MDT
Clark Room
  Conservation/Natural Resources

8:25am MDT

Montana Cadastral Application: What's New and the Year Ahead
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:25am - 8:55am MDT
Governor Room
This talk will cover updates to the Montana Cadastral application since its launch a year ago, and it will look ahead at new features that are planned. There will be time for questions and feedback. 

Presenters
avatar for Kenny Ketner

Kenny Ketner

Information Products Lead, Montana State Library
Kenny Ketner is the Information Products Lead at the Montana State Library (MSL), where he has worked since 2016. His team is responsible for application development and systems administration, frequently in collaboration with the GIS professionals at MSL.
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:25am - 8:55am MDT
Governor Room
  Government

8:25am MDT

Student and Early Career Prof. Development Roundtable
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:25am - 9:30am MDT
Ballroom
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:25am - 9:30am MDT
Ballroom
  Meeting

8:55am MDT

Transition
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:55am - 9:00am MDT
Wednesday April 16, 2025 8:55am - 9:00am MDT

9:00am MDT

DNRC Water Resources Division Data & Apps
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am MDT
Clark Room
Presenters
CS

Chris Stump

Montana DNRC
NW
JH
KC
SS

Sarah Smolka

Montana DNRC
Sarah Smolka has been the Flood Hazard GIS Specialist for Montana DNRC since 2023. She has an M.S. in Geography from the University of Montana and a background in GIS for public safety and energy.
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am MDT
Clark Room
  Conservation/Natural Resources

9:00am MDT

BIA-Rocky Mountain Region (RMR)Regional Geospatial Coordinator Program Update
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am MDT
Lewis Room
Regional Geospatial Coordinators Program:
The purpose of the Regional Geospatial Coordinators (RGCs) is to establish a partnership of the roles and responsibilities of the respective partners in the twelve Regions.
Within this presentation, RMR RGC will give an outline of how RMR RGC has worked to limit data silos and explores the critical aspects of GIS data management, focusing on the effective organization, storage, and manipulation of geographically referenced data within the BIA’s planning context. This emphasizes the importance of data validation and quality checks to ensure the accuracy and consistency of spatial data throughout the BIA’s geospatial system. 
Presenters
avatar for Ken Bixby

Ken Bixby

Regional Geospatial Coordinator, Department of Interior- Rocky Mountain Regional Office
I like to hunt, fish, and other outdoor activities. I really like talking about my 49ers, Celtics, and San Fran Giants. With work related, I like talking about AGOL, Collector, SDE Server (learning), parcel data, Metes and Bounds (COGO), and spatial analysis.
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am MDT
Lewis Room
  Government

9:00am MDT

Getting Started with ArcGIS Workflow Manager
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am MDT
Governor Room
ArcGIS Workflow Manager is a scalable enterprise workflow management system that automates and simplifies many aspects of performing and managing GIS and non-GIS work in an organization. It optimizes GIS operations by providing real-time tools for managing people, processes, and products required to complete work. Come to this session to learn how you can get started with this technology. 
Presenters
SM

Scott Moore

Solution Engineer, Esri
Scott Moore is a Solution Engineer Team Lead with Esri in Olympia, WA.  He focuses on assisting Esri software users with architecture design, application development and technical advice for deploying ArcGIS.  Mr. Moore’s areas of expertise include web mapping, server based GIS... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am MDT
Governor Room
  Government, Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design

9:30am MDT

Transition
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:30am - 9:35am MDT
Clark Room
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:30am - 9:35am MDT
Clark Room

9:35am MDT

MSU's Geospatial Skills Camp for Rural Montana Youth
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:35am - 10:05am MDT
Clark Room
The Geospatial Skills Camp for Rural Montana Youth, hosted by MSU, is an immersive, hands-on program aimed at introducing youth from rural Montana to geospatial technologies and communities. This project brings curriculum covering STEM and GIS technologies to commutes that don’t always have access or educators to instruct the topics. The curriculum includes seven labs that are particularly relevant to Montana’s rural communities and gives students the tools to then explore their own spatial questions during the camp, and in the future. The camps pilot program was successfully launched in 2024, helping to refine the curriculum for this year’s camps. Here is the link to the story map: https://arcg.is/1faOzX1 
Presenters
MK

Maida Knapton

MSU Science & Math Resource Center
DB
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:35am - 10:05am MDT
Clark Room
  Conservation/Natural Resources

9:35am MDT

UAS Thermal Insights into Stream Dynamics
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:35am - 10:05am MDT
Lewis Room
Utilizing temperature of a tracer of ground water-surface water (GWSW) interaction has a long history in hydrology. Increasingly UAS thermal data is being used to evaluate high spatial resolution micro-scale (cm-level) GWSW interaction. Thermal UAS data can reveal areas of groundwater discharge, hyporheic zone interaction, and reaches of warmer water that can be barriers to fish movement and survival. UM and MTech conducted a 20-mile thermal UAS project on Thompson Creek in the summer of 2024. This work provides insights into the GWSW interaction along the creek and has implications for stream restoration in support of native fish populations. 
Presenters
JC

Jeremy Crowley

Autonomous Aerial Systems Office (AASO) at University of Montana
Jeremy Crowley is the Director of the Autonomous Aerial Systems Office (AASO) at the University of Montana (UM). He has worked in the private sector, state and federal agencies, and academia for over 20 years mostly focusing on geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:35am - 10:05am MDT
Lewis Room
  Remote Sensing/UAS

9:35am MDT

Local Government SIG Roundtable Discussion
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:35am - 10:40am MDT
Governor Room
Wednesday April 16, 2025 9:35am - 10:40am MDT
Governor Room
  Meeting

10:05am MDT

Transition
Wednesday April 16, 2025 10:05am - 10:10am MDT
Wednesday April 16, 2025 10:05am - 10:10am MDT

10:10am MDT

Incorporating submerged channel features in DEMs with optical bathymetry and GIS for improved hydrologic modeling
Wednesday April 16, 2025 10:10am - 10:25am MDT
Clark Room
Accurate, high-resolution elevation data for both exposed and submerged features in alluvial systems improves hydrologic and morphodynamic modeling. However, while most LiDAR and drone-based photogrammetry excel at capturing surface topography, they provide limited information about channel bed elevations below the water surface. We demonstrate a workflow to generate and stitch together high-resolution elevation data for both exposed and submerged features. This method integrates drone-based Structure from Motion DEMs with easily obtained field measurements and optical bathymetry tools to generate a single high-resolution, high accuracy topographic and bathymetric DEM raster. 
Presenters
CR

Claire Rawlings Gilder

University of Montana
Wednesday April 16, 2025 10:10am - 10:25am MDT
Clark Room
  Conservation/Natural Resources, Remote Sensing/UAS

10:10am MDT

Trust for Public Land ParkServe
Wednesday April 16, 2025 10:10am - 10:40am MDT
Helena Room
Trust for Public Land® is a national NGO whose mission is to conserve open space lands and promote parks in the United States and it’s territories. One of the central goals of the Trust For Public Land is to ensure that “Everyone in U.S. cities should have access to a quality park within a 10-minute walk of their home.” Working toward this goal requires accurate information on the location of parks and people in urbanized areas, a database that we call ParkServe®. In this presentation, Dave Highness will describe the ParkServe® database and the methods for maintaining and presenting it to the public.
Presenters
DH

Dave Highness

Trust for Public Land
Wednesday April 16, 2025 10:10am - 10:40am MDT
Helena Room
  Conservation/Natural Resources

10:10am MDT

ArcGIS Dashboard Use for Data and User Governance
Wednesday April 16, 2025 10:10am - 10:40am MDT
Lewis Room
With many users across the continental US, the Terracon Data Solutions team provides tailored GIS
solutions for its many offices. A constant struggle is to maintain data standards when there is so much data being collected at any given time. Once it came time to discuss our next version upgrade, the team discussed ways to better efficiencies to speed up the process. We stumbled upon the idea that one needs to 'clean up' before moving from one house to the other. Taking inspiration from a past presentation, the Data Solutions Team and the Solutions Architecture team developed an Esri Dashboard that used Content scoring to demonstrate to users what data is worth keeping and what is not. This assisted the team in reducing content by nearly 50% in a brief period because users could see their aggregate scores and knew what needed improvement and what could be eliminated. We will discuss the creation of the dashboards, the user reception of the concept, and the lessons learned. 
Presenters
avatar for Brett Horr, GISP, LAVM

Brett Horr, GISP, LAVM

Corporate GIS Manager, Terracon Consulting
Brett is the Corporate GIS Manager for Terracon Consulting Engineers and has worked in the GIS field for over 2 decades. His duties include the management of GIS analysis, geohazard mapping, web and mobile mapping projects, & company GIS support. Brett is also a retired police officer... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 10:10am - 10:40am MDT
Lewis Room
  Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design

10:40am MDT

Coffee & Networking Break | Visit Exhibitors
Wednesday April 16, 2025 10:40am - 11:10am MDT
Natatorium
Wednesday April 16, 2025 10:40am - 11:10am MDT
Natatorium
  Networking Break

11:10am MDT

The Modernized National Spatial Reference System is almost here!
Wednesday April 16, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Lewis Room
NOAA's National Geodetic Survey (NGS) defines, maintains, and provides access to the National Spatial Reference System (NSRS), which is a common foundation for geospatial data that serves as the basis for civilian surveying and mapping in the United States. Changes in technology and a better understanding of the dynamic earth have made it necessary to improve the NSRS to be of better use for modern applications. Currently, NGS is in the process of modernizing the NSRS, updating the existing horizontal datums with a suite of geometric reference frames and the vertical datums with a gravimetrically-derived geopotential datum. 
Presenters
avatar for Brian Shaw

Brian Shaw

Rocky Mountain Regional Geodetic Advisor, NOAA's National Geodetic Survey
Brian Shaw is NOAA’s National Geodetic Survey Rocky Mountain Regional Advisor. He began his career at NGS in 2002 and has a BS in Computer Science and an MS in Geographic Information Systems which made him the NGS geospatial go-to person. Brian emphasizes how GIS depends on geodesy... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Lewis Room
  Government

11:10am MDT

Leveraging OpenDroneMap for Processing UAV Imagery
Wednesday April 16, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Clark Room
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have significantly transformed spatial data collection and analysis. This presentation will delve into the utilization of OpenDroneMap, an open-source software toolkit designed for processing UAV imagery. Attendees will learn about the capabilities of OpenDroneMap in generating high-resolution orthophotos, 3D models, and point clouds, with real-world case studies presented by Montana State University's Geospatial Core Facility.
Join us to explore how OpenDroneMap can transform your GIS projects, providing a practical and scalable solution for advanced geospatial data management and analysis. 
Presenters
avatar for Jackson Rose

Jackson Rose

GIS Analyst, Montana State University
Jackson Rose is a Geospatial Research Analyst working in the Geospatial Core Facility at MSU. Jackson’s role in the Collaborative Waterways Mapping project includes overseeing and facilitating primary data collection efforts in connection with the CATS program.
Wednesday April 16, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Clark Room
  Remote Sensing/UAS

11:10am MDT

Montana State University’s Digital Transformation: A Leap into the Future
Wednesday April 16, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Governor Room
Montana State University (MSU) has embarked on an exciting journey of digital transformation by implementing the preliminary elements of a utility digital twin for their water networks using the Esri Utility Network (UN) Solution. This innovative project has revolutionized their approach, moving from standalone CAD drawings and map books to a sophisticated data model that enables advanced asset management and network tracing capabilities through their enterprise GIS portal. 
Presenters
avatar for Kyle Burke

Kyle Burke

GIS Manager, HDR Engineering/Montana State University
Kyle Burke is a GIS Manager with HDR Inc. based in Missoula, MT. He holds BAs in History and Anthropology from the University of Montana and a MS in Geographic Information Science and Technology from the University of Southern California. He has over 7 years as a GIS professional... Read More →
avatar for Christian Black

Christian Black

GIS Manager, Montana State University-Bozeman (Bozeman, MT)
JG

Joel Griffin, GISP

SR GIS Analyst, HDR Inc.
GIS evangelist specializing in enterprise GIS, asset management and utility network management. Am fascinated with integrating business systems with GIS and helping utilities become smarter, geoenabled organizations.
Wednesday April 16, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Governor Room
  Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design, Government

12:15pm MDT

Hosted Lunch featuring Keynote Speaker: Scott Oppman
Wednesday April 16, 2025 12:15pm - 1:45pm MDT
Ballroom
Wednesday April 16, 2025 12:15pm - 1:45pm MDT
Ballroom
  Lunch

1:45pm MDT

UAS Lidar Mission Planning and Applications
Wednesday April 16, 2025 1:45pm - 2:15pm MDT
Lewis Room
Advancements in UAS hardware and Lidar technologies have provided opportunities for organizations to gather highly accurate and dense Lidar point clouds for small scale projects with quick turn around times. This presentation will outline a variety of projects, with varying challenges, specifications and client needs. We will review steps for planning successful UAS Lidar missions and detail UAS Lidar system specifications and applications. Assessing site suitability and the size of project area are important factors for UAS projects. Dense point clouds will be explored from engineering and water resource projects. 
Presenters
TK

Tyler Kaebisch

Geospatial Project Manager, Ayres
Tyler Kaebisch is a Geospatial Project Manager with Ayres. He has managed small and large-scale projects that apply remote sensing techniques to analyze features across the landscape.
Wednesday April 16, 2025 1:45pm - 2:15pm MDT
Lewis Room
  Remote Sensing/UAS

1:45pm MDT

ArcGIS Experience Builder Custom Widgets: Value and Development
Wednesday April 16, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Clark Room
Using ArcGIS Experience Builder, GIS-related web applications can be created by arranging and configuring components known as widgets. Core capabilities are provided by out-of-the-box widgets, while custom widgets can be added to allow for workflows and operations that may not otherwise be accommodated. In this session, the value of custom widgets will be discussed and the process of creating widgets will be explained. A range of audience interests will be served, from offering a general appreciation of the possibilities through to guidance for those who may wish to develop widgets themselves. 
Presenters
avatar for David Howes

David Howes

David Howes, LLC
David Howes is a geospatial information scientist and the sole owner at David Howes, LLC (dhowes.com [dhowes.com]) in Seattle, WA, specializing in the development of GIS tools, processes, and supporting infrastructure for a variety of clients from small operations to multinational corporations. David has over 30 years of academic and private sector experience in both the United Kingdom and the Uni... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Clark Room
  Government, Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design

1:45pm MDT

Cartography Tips & Tricks with ArcGIS Pro
Wednesday April 16, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Governor Room
Good map design helps the viewer navigate information effortlessly, turning complexity into clarity. This presentation will review selected cartographic design concepts, such as figure-ground contrast, visual hierarchy, harmony, and legibility, and provide practical examples of applying them in ArcGIS Pro. The practical tips will cover topics like selecting the right label halos, defining your color scheme, and applying blending modes. Examples will be focused on print and static maps created in ArcGIS Pro, but the concepts could be applied to any type of map or software. 
Presenters
LJ

Liz Juers

GIS Analyst, Montana Department of Transportation
Wednesday April 16, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm MDT
Governor Room
  Government

2:20pm MDT

Helena Mobile Lidar Experience
Wednesday April 16, 2025 2:20pm - 2:50pm MDT
Lewis Room
In October of 2024, approximately 26 road miles within Helena, MT city limits were captured with a state of the art mobile lidar sensor. This presentation will provide a summary of the Helena mobile lidar collection including the technology, collection considerations, desired feature collection and accuracy. And will review what the data will be used for by the City. We will review the types of projects this mobile lidar point cloud and imagery can support in a GIS like asset inventory and management, change detection and much more. 
Presenters
avatar for Melissa Christie

Melissa Christie

Senior Account Manager, West Coast, NV5 Geospatial
Melissa Christie is a Senior Account Manager for NV5 Geospatial and lives in El Dorado Hills, CA. She has a BS in Geography and a minor in Geology from the University of Nevada, Reno. Melissa began her career in the public sector, working for USGS Water Resources Division, Washoe... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 2:20pm - 2:50pm MDT
Lewis Room
  Remote Sensing/UAS, Geospatial and AI

2:50pm MDT

Coffee & Networking Break | Visit Exhibitors
Wednesday April 16, 2025 2:50pm - 3:20pm MDT
Natatorium
Wednesday April 16, 2025 2:50pm - 3:20pm MDT
Natatorium
  Networking Break

3:20pm MDT

Navigating Innovation: Building Pickett’s Unmanned Hydrographic Survey Program
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:20pm - 3:50pm MDT
Lewis Room
Innovation is not a single event but a continuous process of learning, adapting, and refining ideas to reach the right solution. At Pickett and Associates, our journey to develop an unmanned hydrographic survey program demonstrates this iterative approach. Beginning with a custom-built prototype in 2014, our goal was to enhance safety and efficiency in surveying hazardous industrial mining ponds.
This presentation highlights the innovation process that carried us from a promising yet flawed prototype to the successful adoption of a commercially proven solution. Interdisciplinary collaboration and strategic partnerships with industry specialists were two key factors that helped facilitate this transformative journey. By viewing setbacks as opportunities to grow, we identified essential design criteria, conducted thorough market evaluations, and selected a system designed to withstand the extreme conditions of acidic mining ponds.
Throughout this process, we reaffirmed that true innovation demands adaptability and persistence. Valuable lessons emerged, including the necessity of engaging end-users, knowing when to pivot from custom solutions to established technologies, and maintaining a steadfast focus on safety and quality.
This case study provides actionable insights for fostering a culture of innovation that turns challenges into stepping stones for progress.

Takeaway:
Innovation is not linear but a journey defined by discovery and growth. By embracing challenges and refining our approach, Pickett successfully developed and implemented an unmanned hydrographic survey program that exemplifies the power of collaboration and persistence in achieving meaningful innovation. 
Presenters
avatar for Dan Mummert

Dan Mummert

Senior Engineer - Innovation, Pickett and Associates
Dan Mummert, PE, is a Senior Engineer leading the Innovation Program at Pickett and Associates, LLC (Pickett). He holds a degree and a Professional Engineering License in Civil Engineering, specializing in Geospatial Engineering. Dan has over two decades of comprehensive experience... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:20pm - 3:50pm MDT
Lewis Room
  Remote Sensing/UAS

3:20pm MDT

Old Drawings to Drones: Utility Protection and the quest for accuracy at Montana State University.
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:20pm - 3:50pm MDT
Clark Room
Montana State University in Bozeman, MT is a 130 year old institution. In the spring of 2024, University Facilities Management launched their drone program. Combining high tech georeferenced drone mapping with past surveys, stories, drawings, As-Builts, it became clear that the old divisions of getting it right, i.e. GIS vs professional surveying could be used together to make a robust experience for contractors, engineers, planners, etc in getting it right. What is "here" is actually "here". Utility industry veteran, Adam Hallberg, Utility Coordinator describes this in detail. 
Presenters
avatar for Adam Hallberg
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:20pm - 3:50pm MDT
Clark Room
  Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design, Remote Sensing/UAS

3:20pm MDT

Leveraging ArcGIS Solutions in your Organization
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:20pm - 4:20pm MDT
Governor Room
This presentation explores how organizations can leverage ArcGIS Solutions to optimize operations, improve decision-making, and enhance collaboration. By integrating GIS tools into daily workflows, state and local governments can better manage resources, analyze spatial data, and gain valuable insights across sectors like urban planning, transportation, and public safety. We’ll demonstrate how ArcGIS enables real-time data analysis, streamlined processes, and smarter, data-driven decisions. Attendees will learn how to effectively implement ArcGIS Solutions to solve challenges, improve efficiency, and drive innovation, all while maximizing the value of geographic data within their organization. 
Presenters
avatar for Scott Oppmann

Scott Oppmann

Manager of ArcGIS Solutions, Esri
Scott Oppmann is Esri’s ArcGIS for Local Government Project Manager. In this position he is responsible for the planning, implementation, and support of Esri’s ArcGIS for Local Government Solution. This solution provides a series of maps and apps that illustrate how Esri’s software... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:20pm - 4:20pm MDT
Governor Room
  Government, Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design

3:50pm MDT

Transition
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:50pm - 3:55pm MDT
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:50pm - 3:55pm MDT

3:55pm MDT

Creating Web Applications with ArcGIS Components
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:55pm - 4:25pm MDT
Clark Room
Learn how you can use the ArcGIS JavaScript SDK's map and widgets wrapped as web components to kickstart your journey in building web mapping applications. 
Presenters
SM

Scott Moore

Solution Engineer, Esri
Scott Moore is a Solution Engineer Team Lead with Esri in Olympia, WA.  He focuses on assisting Esri software users with architecture design, application development and technical advice for deploying ArcGIS.  Mr. Moore’s areas of expertise include web mapping, server based GIS... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:55pm - 4:25pm MDT
Clark Room
  Government, Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design

3:55pm MDT

Geomorphic change detection after flood events utilizing NAIP imagery supplemented with UAS
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:55pm - 4:25pm MDT
Lewis Room
Fluvial geomorphology and channel migration typically have been studied by relying on field observations or long-term, medium- to low-resolution remote sensing imagery acquired over extended intervals. The technology of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) allows for on-demand data collection with high spatial resolution. This study compares the measurements of aerial imagery produced by the National Agriculture Imagery Program (NAIP) and the aerial imagery produced by a UAS, as well as their ability to capture and analyze land cover and geomorphic changes after flood events between 2017 and 2021 on the Sun River in Central Montana. 
Presenters
TT

Tanner Tompkins

GIS/Land Resources Specialist, Kroenke Ranches
Tanner Tompkins works for a ranch management company headquartered in Bozeman, managing GIS data for over 2 million acres of deeded/leased land. He also helps lead a stream restoration program for the ranch company via GPS surveying, geomorphic measurements, UAS data capture, GIS... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 3:55pm - 4:25pm MDT
Lewis Room
  Remote Sensing/UAS, Conservation/Natural Resource

4:25pm MDT

Transition
Wednesday April 16, 2025 4:25pm - 4:30pm MDT
Wednesday April 16, 2025 4:25pm - 4:30pm MDT

4:30pm MDT

Unlocking the Power of AI: ChatGPT and LLMs for GIS Professionals
Wednesday April 16, 2025 4:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Governor Room
This presentation explores how ChatGPT and other Large Language Models (LLMs) can enhance GIS workflows. Attendees will learn how to use AI on a daily basis to enhance GIS workflows. With practical examples and best practices, this session demonstrates how LLMs can complement traditional GIS tools, boosting productivity and solving common challenges. Whether you're a GIS analyst, developer, or project manager, you'll discover how to integrate AI effectively into your work for greater efficiency and innovation. 
Presenters
avatar for Curtis DeVault

Curtis DeVault

GIS Administrator, Pickett & Associates, LLC
Curtis has over ten years of experience developing and managing geospatial and relational database solutions. He is currently the GIS Administrator at Pickett and Associates. Using ArcGIS Pro, Survey123, Field Maps, SQL, and Python he has built and maintained data collection, analysis... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 4:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Governor Room
  Geospatial and AI

4:30pm MDT

Essentials for a Successful GIS Cloud Migration
Wednesday April 16, 2025 4:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Clark Room
Imagery, big data, analytics, and the always expanding capabilities of the Enterprise stack make migrating from on-premise to a GIS Managed Cloud Services solution an ideal choice. During this session, we will review the top questions and concerns our clients have around making this move, how they prepared to migrate, and the benefits they have realized since. 
Presenters
JY

Jay Young

ROK Technologies
Wednesday April 16, 2025 4:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Clark Room
  Government, Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design

4:30pm MDT

Power Automate for ArcGIS Workflows
Wednesday April 16, 2025 4:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Lewis Room
Microsoft’s Power Automate is a low-code/no-code automation platform that integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365 and a host of third-party applications and services, including ArcGIS. In this session, we’ll explore a real-world example as an overview of requirements, capabilities, and limitations of this integration. Key topics will include authentication methods, deployment patterns, common pitfalls, quirks, practical tips and tricks, and lessons learned. 
Presenters
avatar for Joe Rhodes

Joe Rhodes

Principal/Developer, CivicLens
Full-service Missoula-based GIS professional services provider offering affordable GIS development and solutions, ArcGIS Enterprise deployments and upgrades (cloud/on-premises), and ArcGIS Online/Portal backup solutions. We serve customers in nine countries across the globe, from... Read More →
Wednesday April 16, 2025 4:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Lewis Room
  Government, Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design

4:30pm MDT

Neighborhoods as Fuel for Wildfire
Wednesday April 16, 2025 4:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Helena Room
Wildfire’s destruction of homes is an increasingly serious global problem. Characterizing home hardening and defensible space at the individual structure level may reduce loss through enriched understanding of structure susceptibility. However, improved data and methods are required to accurately characterize parcel-level features at scale. Here, we present a remote sensing and statistical learning approach to representing single-structure susceptibility in Ouray County, Colorado. Using LiDAR and property records, we characterize fuel attributes in the built environment. This method uses open-source data and may be used by communities to develop policies and mitigation programs. 
Presenters
BY

Bryce Young

National Center for Landscape Fire Analysis
Wednesday April 16, 2025 4:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Helena Room
  Remote Sensing/UAS, Geospatial and AI

5:00pm MDT

Social Reception, Banquet, Awards and Trivia!
Wednesday April 16, 2025 5:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Ballroom
Wednesday April 16, 2025 5:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Ballroom
  Event
 
Thursday, April 17
 

8:15am MDT

MAGIP Annual Member Meeting
Thursday April 17, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am MDT
Ballroom
Thursday April 17, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am MDT
Ballroom
  Meeting

9:15am MDT

Transition
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:15am - 9:20am MDT
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:15am - 9:20am MDT

9:20am MDT

Basecamp Butte: Using GIS to Promote Outdoor Recreation
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:20am - 9:50am MDT
Clark Room
As Butte looks to the future, the community is working to build a new reputation as a hub for outdoor recreation. Through this work, the need was identified for an interactive online map that residents and visitors could use to locate outdoor recreation opportunities. Recreation opportunities are managed by many different entities and there was no centralized location to find maps and information. This presentation will share how the Basecamp Butte map was developed to address this challenge. The map will launch in Spring 2025 and provides a comprehensive view of outdoor recreation opportunities in the Butte area. 
Presenters
LL

Liz Lahey

Water & Environmental Technologies
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:20am - 9:50am MDT
Clark Room
  Conservation/Natural Resources, Government

9:20am MDT

Indoor Mapping
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:20am - 9:50am MDT
Lewis Room
State governments in the United States are increasingly mandating that educational institutions and municipalities adopt critical incident mapping (CIM) and emergency management planning to support first responders and computer-aided dispatch (CAD) during emergencies. This presentation underscores the value of integrating Esri products for CIM, emergency management and asset management, with a focus on indoor mapping and digital twins.

Key topic areas covered include data sharing, safety asset mapping, routing, 3D GIS, best path analysis, and evacuation planning, utilizing the latest reality capture methods and ArcGIS technologies. 
Presenters
avatar for Brock Saylor

Brock Saylor

Senior Consultant | Digital Solutions, Langan
Brock Saylor is a senior consultant and lead client success manager with the Digital Solutions team at Langan Engineering and Environmental Services. Brock has extensive experience spanning 13 years in the GIS and digital transformation worlds, and has experience as a GIS analyst... Read More →
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:20am - 9:50am MDT
Lewis Room
  Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design, Emergency Services

9:20am MDT

MSDI Administrative Boundaries, Geo-Enabled Elections and Census Data
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:20am - 10:20am MDT
Governor Room
This presentation will provide an update on the MSDI Administrative Boundaries, Geo-Enabled Elections, and the U.S. Census Bureau Programs. The panelists will demonstrate their role in the election process and answer questions from the audience.

The panelists include:
• Meghan Burns, GIS Analyst / Administrative Boundary Theme Lead | Montana State Library
• Caroline Psaltis, GIS Specialist / Geo-Enabled Elections | Montana State Library
• Stuart Fuller, Elections & Voter Services Manager | Montana Secretary of State
• Dave Ritts, GIS Analyst | Census & Economic Information Center / Montana Department of Commerce
• Eric Spangenberg, GISP, GIS Coordinator | City of Helena / Lewis and Clark County
• Connor Fitzpatrick, Elections Division Supervisor | Lewis and Clark County 
Presenters
avatar for Meghan Burns

Meghan Burns

GIS Analyst, Montana State Library
Meghan Burns has been a GIS Analyst and the Administrative Boundary Theme Steward with the Montana State Library since 2015. As part of the Water Information Team, she helps manage data for the Elevation and Hydrography themes. She has served on the MAGIP Board of Directors as a Member-at-Large/Secretary... Read More →
avatar for Dave Ritts

Dave Ritts

GIS Analyst, Montana Department of Commerce
Dave Ritts is a GIS Analyst with the Montana Department of Commerce.  He primarily works with demographic and economic data and maintains dashboards, web pages and databases for the Census and Economic Information Center (CEIC).  He has previously worked as a GIS Analyst for Oregon... Read More →
SF
ES
CF
CP
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:20am - 10:20am MDT
Governor Room
  Government

9:50am MDT

Transition
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:50am - 9:55am MDT
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:50am - 9:55am MDT

9:55am MDT

Base Map Editing: Enhancing Great Falls’ City Parks with ESRI’s Community Maps Editor
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:55am - 10:25am MDT
Clark Room
Paris Gibson envisioned parks as essential to Great Falls’ urban identity. This presentation showcases how ESRI's Community Maps Editor has been leveraged to update city park layers in ESRI's Base maps, creating detailed and accurate information for both residents and visitors. Inspired by efforts to update the City Parks webpage, this project merges historical appreciation with GIS tools, ensuring that green spaces remain central to city planning. Attendees will explore the technical process of basemap editing, navigate the challenges of data integration and decision making, and discover how these updates honor Gibson's vision. 
Presenters
avatar for Nathaniel Williams

Nathaniel Williams

GIS Specialist, City of Great Falls
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:55am - 10:25am MDT
Clark Room
  Government

9:55am MDT

Enhancing Stormwater Management in Cheyenne Wyoming: A GIS based Approach to Impervious Surface Analysis
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:55am - 10:25am MDT
Lewis Room
Stormwater management is increasingly becoming a challenge for towns and cities that contend with population growth, aging stormwater infrastructure, and the increasing frequency and cost of storm events. Municipalities can leverage impervious surface mapping and analysis to help fund stormwater maintenance by providing an avenue to equitably assess stormwater utility fees based on the amount of impervious surface on a property contributing surface water runoff to a municipality's stormwater system.

In 2024, the City of Cheyenne, Wyoming, partnered with Pickett and Associates to advance its stormwater management program by conducting a GIS-based impervious surface mapping project. Pickett leveraged AI-based image classification using high-resolution aerial imagery to map impervious surfaces across 47.5 square miles and over 29,000 parcels within the City of Cheyenne. Pickett leveraged GIS tools, together with GIS data from the City and County, including Parcels, Address Points, Zoning, and Jurisdictional boundaries, to associate each parcel with a total impervious surface area and tie that impervious surface area to address points and, ultimately, utility billing accounts. Throughout this project, Pickett relied on web mapping applications to enhance communication and stakeholder engagement with the city engineers and city council members. This impervious surface analysis gave the city insight into each parcel’s surface water runoff potential based on its impervious surface area, which directly enabled Cheyenne to equitably assess a new stormwater utility fee based on parcel-level surface runoff potential. The city council passed the new stormwater ordinance in November 2024.

This presentation discusses the GIS-based approach and analysis that Pickett conducted for the City of Cheyenne, highlighting some of the challenges we faced and the impact that this analysis has made for the city’s stormwater program. The impervious surface mapping project not only supports Cheyenne’s Surface Water Management Program, but also provides actionable insights for future urban planning and stormwater mitigation, enabling the City to make informed, data-driven decisions to reduce flooding risks, improve water quality and better manage its stormwater infrastructure, ultimately benefiting the community’s sustainability and resilience. 
Presenters
avatar for Pickett & Associates, LLC

Pickett & Associates, LLC

GIS Manager, Pickett & Associates, LLC
Ms. Paris is a GIS Manager with more than 13 years of experience leveraging GIS solutions to solve real-world problems in the fields of engineering, surveying, environmental science, and geology. Ms. Paris designs GIS tools and strategies to optimize field mapping and data collection... Read More →
Thursday April 17, 2025 9:55am - 10:25am MDT
Lewis Room
  Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design

10:25am MDT

Coffee & Networking Break | Visit Exhibitors
Thursday April 17, 2025 10:25am - 10:55am MDT
Natatorium
Thursday April 17, 2025 10:25am - 10:55am MDT
Natatorium
  Networking Break

10:55am MDT

MSDI Transportation Framework Update
Thursday April 17, 2025 10:55am - 11:25am MDT
Governor Room
Since 2017, the MSDI Transportation Framework has been without dedicated staff to maintain it. However, the need for an accurate, up-to-date, and standardized statewide road centerline dataset has not gone away. Foremost, road centerlines with address ranges are a required dataset for NG9-1-1. Additionally, road centerlines are an important dataset for helping people locate themselves, navigate between places, and are a key reference layer in base maps. As a result, MSL staff have been working intermittently over the years to create a new Transportation Framework road centerline layer that meets NG9-1-1 standards, can be incorporated into base maps, and be efficiently and sustainably updated. Leveraging the work of local and tribal governments as they prepare road centerline data for NG9-1-1, MSL has released a new MSDI Transportation Framework road centerline dataset. Attendees will learn how this dataset is being maintained and how MSL plans to coordinate on-going maintenance and improvements. 
Presenters
avatar for Michael Fashoway

Michael Fashoway

GIS Land Information Lead, Montana State Library
Michael Fashoway is the GIS Land Information Lead at the Montana State Library where he leads the development and maintenance of Administrative Boundaries, Cadastral, Mapping Control, Structures/Addresses, and Transportation MSDI themes. He is also active in a state and... Read More →
Thursday April 17, 2025 10:55am - 11:25am MDT
Governor Room
  Emergency Services, Government

10:55am MDT

The Child Care Landscape Under the Big Sky: Examining the Spatial Relationship Between Authorized Capacity and Land Use in Montana
Thursday April 17, 2025 10:55am - 11:25am MDT
Helena Room
Montana is the fourth largest state by area with nearly half of its population living in rural areas. These residents often face challenges in accessing childcare services and a recent survey revealed that this drawback impacts their workforce participation.

Using data from public datasets and geostatistical techniques, we assessed the relationship between population density, land use, and authorized licensed childcare in Montana. This methodology identified areas with service deficiencies and provided a comprehensive understanding of the spatial distribution of these parameters. This finding is critical for optimizing the allocation of services and overcoming these childcare capacity deficiencies impacting rural populations. 
Presenters
avatar for Ellysse Boughey

Ellysse Boughey

Maternal & Child Health Spatial Epidemiologist, Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services
Thursday April 17, 2025 10:55am - 11:25am MDT
Helena Room
  GIS in Health

10:55am MDT

Geospatial Governance: Laying the Foundation for a Reliable and Sustainable GIS
Thursday April 17, 2025 10:55am - 11:25am MDT
Clark Room
Effective geospatial governance is key to building a strong and sustainable GIS for your organization. In this session, we’ll explore how policies, tools, and web applications can be implemented to create a reliable GIS framework that promotes efficiency and reusability.

We’ll share the Montana State Library’s experience in developing a geospatial governance policy, including insights from our working policy documents, scripting tools, and dashboards. Attendees will gain practical knowledge on leveraging these resources to establish or enhance their own geospatial governance strategies. 
Presenters
avatar for Matt Trebesch

Matt Trebesch

GIS Analyst, Montana State Library
Matt Trebesch is a GIS Analyst at the Montana State Library (MSL). At the MSL, he manages a variety of statewide projects including the MSL “Flood Hub” and the now retired Montana Covid-19 dashboard and Hub. He also provides statewide support of MGIA (Formerly MLIA) grantees and... Read More →
Thursday April 17, 2025 10:55am - 11:25am MDT
Clark Room
  Government

10:55am MDT

Beyond Utilities: Asset Management for Parks and Recreation – Lessons Learned from Implementation
Thursday April 17, 2025 10:55am - 12:00pm MDT
Lewis Room
Effective asset management is essential for maintaining and optimizing parks and recreation infrastructure. This session will provide a comprehensive look at asset management from strategic planning to implementation and field operations.
The discussion will begin with a broad overview of asset management in parks and recreation, emphasizing its role in optimizing resources, improving service delivery, and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Next, the focus will shift to the implementation of an enterprise asset management system (Cartegraph) for Missoula Parks and Recreation. Lessons learned will be shared, including strategies for ensuring data accuracy, integrating GIS data, overcoming implementation challenges, and developing workflows tailored to the unique needs of parks and recreation assets. The presentation will highlight the transition to a data-driven approach to improve decision-making, streamline preventive maintenance, and enhance operational efficiency.

The session will conclude with insights from the field showcasing how asset management benefits daily park maintenance operations. Topics will include GIS integration for field staff, mobile application usability, asset digitization, and work management functionality. The discussion will highlight efforts to tailor the system for maintenance workers, ensuring efficiency and ease of use in managing park assets.

This session will provide valuable insights for organizations looking to implement or refine asset management practices in parks and recreation.
Presenters
avatar for Lee Macholz

Lee Macholz

GIS Manager, City of Missoula
Lee Macholz is the GIS Manager for the City of Missoula Montana. She holds a Master’s degree in Geography and GIS from the University of Montana (2004). Lee has 20+ years of professional GIS experience spanning from GIS for Wildland Fire Management to public utilities to all-things... Read More →
LP

Lauren Pfund

City of Missoula
TR

Trevor Ross

GIS Intern, City of Missoula
Trevor is an undergraduate student at the University of Montana studying Parks, Tourism, and Recreation Management with a certificate in Geographic Information Systems. He works for the City of Missoula Parks and Recreation Department as a Program Assistant (GIS Intern) within the... Read More →
Thursday April 17, 2025 10:55am - 12:00pm MDT
Lewis Room
  Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design, Government

11:25am MDT

Transition
Thursday April 17, 2025 11:25am - 11:30am MDT
Thursday April 17, 2025 11:25am - 11:30am MDT

11:30am MDT

Spatiotemporal review of Montana’s sage-grouse habitat mitigation framework
Thursday April 17, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm MDT
Helena Room
In 2019, Montana implemented a compensatory mitigation system for sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) habitat. Since then, Montana has experienced an increasingly complex landscape, posing unique challenges for the habitat mitigation system. The development of a geospatial model (Habitat Quantification Tool [HQT]) provides a non-biased, science-based, and stakeholder-supported process to quantify sage-grouse habitat. The HQT is used to establish a statewide baseline of existing habitat (i.e., HQT Basemap). Over time, impacts from newly implemented projects are used to update the HQT Basemap. By reviewing spatial changes in sage-grouse habitat over time, we can assess the efficacy of the sage-grouse mitigation system. 
Presenters
JM

Jamie McFadden

GIS Analyst, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation
Thursday April 17, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm MDT
Helena Room
  Conservation/Natural Resources

11:30am MDT

MSDI Structures/Addresses Framework Update
Thursday April 17, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm MDT
Governor Room
Accurate, up-to-date, and standardized address point data have never been more important than right now for uses ranging from 9-1-1 and elections management, to broadband internet access, to package delivery. Working with local and tribal partners, MSL strives to make the MSDI Structures/Addresses Framework the source of address data in Montana for all these uses, and more. Come hear the latest updates on the MSDI Structures/Addresses Framework and how MSL is helping to improve address data quality and management across the state. 
Presenters
avatar for Michael Fashoway

Michael Fashoway

GIS Land Information Lead, Montana State Library
Michael Fashoway is the GIS Land Information Lead at the Montana State Library where he leads the development and maintenance of Administrative Boundaries, Cadastral, Mapping Control, Structures/Addresses, and Transportation MSDI themes. He is also active in a state and... Read More →
Thursday April 17, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm MDT
Governor Room
  Emergency Services, Government

11:30am MDT

School Districts in Carbon County. Holy Grail or Holy Hell?
Thursday April 17, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm MDT
Clark Room
The number of school districts in Carbon County has shrunk from 70 to 7 over the last 50 years. Years of abandonments, consolidations, annexations and transfers have significantly re-configured the boundaries of these commonly referenced districts. Is it important to track these changes? Considering that several other special improvement districts including fire, ambulance and cemetery districts referenced school district boundaries during their formation, the answer may be yes. This presentation describes the way in which GIS was used to track school district transactions over time and explores the challenges that were encountered while attempting to modernize school district boundaries. 
Presenters
avatar for Tom Kohley

Tom Kohley

GIS Coordinator / Fire Warden, Carbon County
Thursday April 17, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm MDT
Clark Room
  Government

12:00pm MDT

Lunch on your own
Thursday April 17, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm MDT
Thursday April 17, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm MDT

1:30pm MDT

Modernizing watercourse mapping through the 3D Hydrography Program
Thursday April 17, 2025 1:30pm - 2:00pm MDT
Lewis Room
Montana is modernizing their stream and waterbody mapping data, which relies on the current National Hydrography Dataset (NHD). NHD is outdated and lacks detail for local features like canals and small drainages. With statewide lidar acquisition nearing completion, the next evolution of water course mapping will adopt the USGS 3D Hydrography Program (3DHP). 3DHP provides a new data model, more accurate and consistent data, and connections to water reporting systems. 3DHP will enable hydrographic analysis and visualization for a broad range of applications. Get involved to help improve Montana’s water data. 
Presenters
TB

Troy Blandford

GIS Analyst - Water Info Lead, Montana State Library Geographic Information
Troy Blandford is responsible for water-relevant GIS data and information at the Montana State Library. In addition to stewarding the statewide hydrography dataset, Troy collaborates with state, federal, tribal, and local partners to obtain and make available lidar-derived, high-resolution... Read More →
avatar for Elaine Guidero

Elaine Guidero

National Map Liaison, U.S. Geological Survey
I started my career at USGS as an applied researcher in the field of multi-scale cartography before becoming the National Map Liaison to Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota. In graduate school, I studied the typography of cartography, and I really enjoy talking about fonts... Read More →
Thursday April 17, 2025 1:30pm - 2:00pm MDT
Lewis Room
  Conservation/Natural Resources

1:30pm MDT

UAV Geotagging and GPS correction utilizing Montana State Reference Network (MTSRN)
Thursday April 17, 2025 1:30pm - 2:00pm MDT
Clark Room
This is a live demonstration utilizing the Montana State Reference Network (MTSRN) for the GPS correction solution in geotagging an imagery set from a large area UAV flight. I will be walking through the workflow from image acquisition through geotagging. A final image product will be presented; however, the image processing post geotagging will be done at a high level with low detail. 
Presenters
JC
Thursday April 17, 2025 1:30pm - 2:00pm MDT
Clark Room
  Remote Sensing/UAS

1:30pm MDT

MSL Support for NG9-1-1 GIS
Thursday April 17, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Governor Room
Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) is coming quickly to Montana. The state’s selection of a NG9-1-1 Core Service Provider should align closely with this year’s MAGIP GeoCon annual conference. We hope to give any updates we have on implementation timelines and what will be required from local data suppliers. Even if we do not yet have a firm timeline, we are officially on the clock to be ready to support the GIS needs of a NG9-1-1 system soon. The Montana State Library (MSL) released its GIS Data Validation and Aggregation Portal for NG9-1-1 in October 2022. We will give an update on portal functionality and how local data suppliers’ uptake of the portal is going. In the coming year, we hope to get all local data suppliers using the portal. We will reserve some time for questions and suggestions for how we can better support local data suppliers. 
Presenters
avatar for Michael Fashoway

Michael Fashoway

GIS Land Information Lead, Montana State Library
Michael Fashoway is the GIS Land Information Lead at the Montana State Library where he leads the development and maintenance of Administrative Boundaries, Cadastral, Mapping Control, Structures/Addresses, and Transportation MSDI themes. He is also active in a state and... Read More →
avatar for Bob Cochran

Bob Cochran

Montana State Library
I am in my second year as a 9-1-1 GIS Analysist at the Montana State Library where my duties are primarily supporting statewide 9-1-1 GIS needs. Bob came to the State Library in late 2021 after 5 years at Montana Department of Justice and 10 years at Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks... Read More →
Thursday April 17, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Governor Room
  Emergency Services, Government

2:00pm MDT

Transition
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:05pm MDT
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:05pm MDT

2:05pm MDT

From Capture to Insight: Leveraging Drone Technology and GeoAI
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:05pm - 2:35pm MDT
Lewis Room
This presentation explores how drone technology and GeoAI revolutionize geospatial data workflows, from acquisition to actionable insights. High-resolution imagery collected by drones is processed into orthomosaics, 3D models, and other refined datasets. Advanced AI models analyze this data to identify patterns, detect anomalies, and inform decisions for applications like infrastructure monitoring. Emphasizing automated, scalable methods, this end-to-end process highlights efficiency, accuracy, and transformative potential, empowering organizations to address spatial challenges with precision. 
Presenters
avatar for Chad Lopez

Chad Lopez

Solution Engineer, Imagery and Remote Sensing, Esri
Chad Lopez works within Esri's Imagery and Remote Sensing team specializing in drone solutions. Chad has worked at Esri since 2018 and holds a GIS Professional Certification (GISP), a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, and a Master of Science in GIS from the University of Redlands... Read More →
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:05pm - 2:35pm MDT
Lewis Room
  Geospatial and AI, Remote Sensing/UAS

2:05pm MDT

Engineering independent intensity and texture features for sample design, classification, regression, and clustering analyses using principal component analysis and convolution kernels
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:05pm - 2:35pm MDT
Clark Room
Local raster texture is an important attribute that can be used for sample design and raster-based classification, regression, and clustering. However, determining the appropriate kernel weights to quantify texture can be challenging and can vary depending on the remote sensing or computer vision task. We present an automated approach that uses principal component analysis (PCA) and convolution kernels to quantify orthogonal intensity and texture metrics. Our approach linearly projects raster data across covariance axes, learns kernel cell weights, and provides a straightforward mechanism to retain as much information as possible within the raster dataset while removing redundancy. 
Presenters
avatar for John Hogland

John Hogland

Research Forester, USDA FS RMRS
Dr. Hogland is a Research Forester working for the Rocky Mountain Research Station. His research interests revolve around quantitative methods within geographic information systems (GIS) and understanding the relationships between landscape patterns and forested ecosystems processes... Read More →
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:05pm - 2:35pm MDT
Clark Room
  Remote Sensing/UAS, Geospatial and AI

2:35pm MDT

Transition
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:35pm - 2:40pm MDT
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:35pm - 2:40pm MDT

2:40pm MDT

Geospatial Digital Twin: Facility and Vertical Asset Management
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:40pm - 3:10pm MDT
Clark Room
As the term Digital Twin continues to grow in popularity, how do organizations understand what it means? In this presentation I will discuss that topic in more detail to help the group get a better understanding of the Digital Twin concept and how it can be leveraged to assist with organization’s modernization efforts.

From there, I will discuss the digital twin workflow from scan to BIM to GIS and then into an ALMS. Throughout we will present different data acquisition options, the conversion efforts, and wrap it up with some current use cases that are underway.





 
Presenters
JG

John Garrido

Account Executive, NV5
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:40pm - 3:10pm MDT
Clark Room
  Utilities/Asset Management/Engineering Design

2:40pm MDT

Addressing Roundtable Discussion
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:40pm - 3:40pm MDT
Governor Room
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:40pm - 3:40pm MDT
Governor Room
  Meeting

2:40pm MDT

Advancements in Remote Sensing and Imagery
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:40pm - 3:40pm MDT
Lewis Room
We will explore and discuss new advances in remote sensing technologies, and discuss their applications in government with an emphasis on emerging technology.

-Tasking and archived satellite imagery as high as 15cm resolution (previously capped at 50cm)
-Autonomous drone docking stations
-Oriented imagery and video
-Enterprise-scale imagery management (image services and STAC)
-Every scale reality mapping, including urban and environmental digital twins 
Presenters
JW
SM

Scott Moore

Solution Engineer, Esri
Scott Moore is a Solution Engineer Team Lead with Esri in Olympia, WA.  He focuses on assisting Esri software users with architecture design, application development and technical advice for deploying ArcGIS.  Mr. Moore’s areas of expertise include web mapping, server based GIS... Read More →
Thursday April 17, 2025 2:40pm - 3:40pm MDT
Lewis Room
  Remote Sensing/UAS

3:10pm MDT

Transition
Thursday April 17, 2025 3:10pm - 3:15pm MDT
Thursday April 17, 2025 3:10pm - 3:15pm MDT

3:45pm MDT

GIS Coordination and Legislative Update | Door Prizes and Giveaways!
Thursday April 17, 2025 3:45pm - 4:15pm MDT
Ballroom
Presenters
EF

Erin Fashoway

Montana State Library
Thursday April 17, 2025 3:45pm - 4:15pm MDT
Ballroom
  Meeting
 
Friday, April 18
 

8:00am MDT

Introductory Level ArcGIS Pro Parcel Fabric (1/2 Day AM)
Friday April 18, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room TBA
The ArcGIS Pro Parcel Fabric is the next-generation solution for editing and maintaining Land Records and Parcels using Esri's ArcGIS Pro software.  This half-day workshop will introduce the functionality, structure, implementation options, and workflows in the Parcel Fabric. The workshop will provide a download link to a sample parcel fabric and project file for demonstration and a work-along experience for attendees. If the attendees wish to participate in the workshop, they must provide a laptop containing a fully licensed copy of ArcGIS Pro 3.x or above. Several parcel maintenance workflows will be demonstrated and explored to understand the workings of the Parcel Fabric.

Presenters
FC

Frank Conkling

Frank J. Conkling owns Panda Consulting, a GIS Professional Services company that has existed since 1998. Frank is a recognized authority on GIS and Surveying and Mapping technology, including mapping various types of ownership interest in land. Panda Consulting was the first Esri... Read More →
Friday April 18, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

8:00am MDT

Beginners Guide to Customizing ArcGIS Pro with Arcade (Full Day)
Friday April 18, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the ArcGIS Arcade expression language, specifically designed for use within the ArcGIS Pro environment. Designed for GIS professionals, analysts, and developers, this class teaches you how to harness the power of Arcade to create dynamic labeling, symbology, and pop-ups based on data from ArcGIS Pro. Throughout the course, you’ll learn how to write and apply Arcade expressions to enhance your GIS workflows, allowing for on-the-fly calculations, custom visualizations, and the dynamic display of map elements.

Intended Audience: 
This course is designed for existing ArcGIS Pro users who are looking to expand their skill set with ArcGIS Arcade. It is ideal for GIS professionals, analysts, and developers who already have a foundational knowledge of ArcGIS Pro and are looking to take their capabilities to the next level.
Course Modules:
  • Module 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Arcade
  • Module 2: The Arcade Language
  • Module 3: Categories of Functions in Arcade
  • Module 4: Symbology with Arcade
  • Module 5: Labeling with Arcade
  • Module 6: Pop-ups and Interactive Content
  • Module 7: Data Calculations and Field Updates
Summary:
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the ArcGIS Arcade expression language, specifically designed for use within the ArcGIS Pro environment. Designed for GIS professionals, analysts, and developers, this class teaches you how to harness the power of Arcade to create dynamic labeling, symbology, and pop-ups based on data from ArcGIS Pro. Throughout the course, you’ll learn how to write and apply Arcade expressions to enhance your GIS workflows, allowing for on-the-fly calculations, custom visualizations, and the dynamic display of map elements.
Whether you’re working with feature data, symbology, or generating pop-up content, this course will enable you to take full advantage of the versatility Arcade offers for tailoring your maps and layers. Practical, hands-on exercises will reinforce key concepts and ensure that you leave the class equipped to confidently apply Arcade within ArcGIS Pro to solve real-world GIS challenges.
Presenters
avatar for Kara Utter

Kara Utter

GIS Consultant and Owner, Dynamic Visions GIS
GIS Consultant and owner of Dynamic Visions GIS. With over 10 years of experience in GIS, I have worked with local, state, and federal government entities, as well as the nonprofit and private sectors. I spent the last five years building and coordinating a County-level GIS program... Read More →
Friday April 18, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

8:00am MDT

Introduction to JavaScript for ArcGIS Application Development (Full Day)
Friday April 18, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Presenters
avatar for David Howes

David Howes

David Howes, LLC
David Howes is a geospatial information scientist and the sole owner at David Howes, LLC (dhowes.com [dhowes.com]) in Seattle, WA, specializing in the development of GIS tools, processes, and supporting infrastructure for a variety of clients from small operations to multinational corporations. David has over 30 years of academic and private sector experience in both the United Kingdom and the Uni... Read More →
Friday April 18, 2025 8:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop

1:00pm MDT

Intermediate Level ArcGIS Pro Parcel Fabric (1/2 Day PM)
Friday April 18, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
Presenters
FC

Frank Conkling

Frank J. Conkling owns Panda Consulting, a GIS Professional Services company that has existed since 1998. Frank is a recognized authority on GIS and Surveying and Mapping technology, including mapping various types of ownership interest in land. Panda Consulting was the first Esri... Read More →
Friday April 18, 2025 1:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Room TBA
  Workshop
 
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