The differential corrected GPS rover files is converted automatically to the selected GIS format. Data format customization is possible. For example, many conversions do not transfer height since most GIS software works in a horizontal X, Y coordinate system. Customization allows GPS height transfer to GIS for contouring or surface treatments. Other Applications Most GPS data collection is ground-based.
Major exceptions are fire management and wildlife inventory aerial data collection.
The Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service use GPS in helicopters to locate fire perimeters and calculate acreage. In several major fires, aerial and ground GPS data collection has proven invaluable for rapidly learning structure damage, environmental damage and fire extent. GIS is used to analyze and map the fire area. A GPS equipped fast moving airplane or helicopter can quickly locate and inventory wildlife in hard to reach locations or over large areas. The experienced GPS users learn to optimize data gathering by understanding system strengths and weaknesses.