CURA has a long tradition of bringing novel ideas and thoughtful discussion about urban and regional issues to Central Ohio through our semi-annual speaker series. Recently, we have focused on Mobility and Equity (Fall 2018), Cities and Water (Spring 2018), People-Centered Cities (Fall 2017), Smart Cities (Spring 2017), and Healthy Cities (Fall 2016). The theme for Spring 2019 will be Natural Resources & GIS and we are excited about our local expert!

On April 12th, we will host Josh Garver, GISP, Assistant Director, from Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District presenting his lecture on Natural Resources & GIS: Applications at the Local Level. 

Abstract: As an urban soil and water conservation district, GIS is playing critical roles in allowing us to promote responsible land use decisions for the improvement of soil and water resources in Franklin County, Ohio. Managing stormwater and meeting stormwater permit requirements for OEPA is a large part of what the Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District focuses on. This presentation will provide an overview of how the District is using GIS to address these topics as well as an array of projects where GIS has been used to manage and analyze data related to our natural resources here in Franklin County.

Josh Garver is the Assistant Director and Natural Resource GIS Manager at Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District. He provides technical guidance and support to staff, maintains GIS data layers and is involved in a variety of projects providing GIS expertise and support. Josh also coordinates GIS-based projects with various Franklin County agencies and local municipalities, which focus on improving water quality and meeting requirements for the NPDES permit held by Franklin County. Josh is a GISP, has his Master's certificate in GIS from North Carolina State University, a minor in City and Regional Planning from the Ohio State University and a B.S. in landscape architecture from the Ohio State University.

We hope you will join us for these free events!  Refreshments will be provided. A complete list of our past events – with links to recordings for some – is available on our website.