The Delaware Geological Survey's Delaware Data Mapping and Integration Laboratory (DataMIL) team has modified and improved the DataMIL Web site to ensure that the state geographic information systems (GIS) community and citizens can take full advantage of spatial data framework layers.

The layers include aerial imagery, boundaries, county parcels, elevation, geographic names, surface cover, transportation and water features. These important basemap layers are used regularly by state, county and local agencies, as well as by planners, environmental and engineering consultants, developers, real estate professionals and the public. DataMIL has served Delaware's framework layers since its release in 2002, and the data are part of the National Spatial Data Infrastructure. Instructions for using the Website can be found under the "Need Help?" menu in the upper right side of the page banner.

When entering the revised DataMIL site, users will see a data catalog and be able to preview each layer in a “map viewer,” read the metadata or download the entire statewide dataset. The data layers are also searchable by category, by keyword and by spatial search. When exploring the metadata records, users can share these data with colleagues through e-mail and social networking sites. Another helpful item is a GeoRSS feed that notifies users of recent changes on the DataMIL site.

Lastly, the site makes use of a Google Map interface, which allows large datasets to be available for download. The DataMIL Tiled Data Distribution page is an easy way to click and get tiles of imagery and elevation raster data sets for the entire state.

The DataMIL also serves Delaware 7.5-minute topographic maps that replace the U. S. Geological Survey 7.5-minute primary map series for the state. The DataMIL topographic maps are comprised of the up-to-date spatial data framework layers from the DataMIL. These maps can be downloaded as PDF files from the DataMIL site under the “Topo Maps” menu.

Those who have comments or questions about the site should contact the Delaware Geological Survey's DataMIL team via e-mail at [DataMIL-DGS@udel.edu].