General Information
CAD or Computer Aided Design refers to software that allows our technicians to design Best Management Practices in a computerized format. In the past, design work was done primarily by hand with a pencil. There are many advantages of a design done in a computerized format. One of the biggest advantages is that changes can be made quickly and easily. Another advantage is that CAD allows us to integrate data from our GPS and GIS.
Integration with GPS/GIS
One of the most important benefits of CAD is that the data can be integrated from our GIS and GPS equipment for various applications. Topographic data from the GPS unit can be downloaded and integrated into CAD for designing any Best Management Practice. GIS data layers can be added to create a map that shows the location and elevations of such features as farm buildings, drainage ditches, culverts, or rock breakwalls.