SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has finalized a new Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Strategy designed to enhance how mapping, spatial data, and geospatial technologies support emergency management efforts across the state.
The strategy outlines a coordinated framework to guide OEM’s use of GIS in improving preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation, while strengthening collaboration with local, Tribal, state, and federal agencies, as well as nonprofit and private sector partners.
“GIS is an essential capability in modern emergency management,” said Daniel Stoelb, OEM’s GIS coordinator. “This strategy helps ensure we are using geospatial data in a consistent, collaborative, and forward-looking way to support informed decision-making and better outcomes for the communities we serve.”
Supporting Modern Emergency Management
GIS technology plays a vital role in helping emergency managers assess risks, monitor incidents, allocate resources, and communicate effectively with the public. OEM officials say the new strategy focuses on improving the agency’s ability to turn complex datasets into actionable intelligence, enhancing both operational coordination and community resilience.
The plan aligns with OEM’s broader mission to lead statewide, collaborative efforts that support Oregon communities before, during, and after emergencies.
Key Priorities Identified
The strategy outlines nine priority areas for strengthening GIS capabilities:
- Enhancing data integration, governance, standardization, and security
- Advancing equity and accessibility in geospatial tools and data
- Strengthening hazard mapping and risk analysis
- Improving situational awareness and decision-support tools
- Expanding interagency GIS collaboration and data sharing
- Supporting community partners with shared data resources
- Investing in technology, workforce development, and GIS capacity
- Enhancing 9-1-1 call mapping capabilities in Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs)
- Preparing for Next Generation 9-1-1 implementation
Building Statewide Collaboration
OEM emphasized that GIS capabilities are a shared resource across the emergency management system. The strategy highlights the importance of partnerships with local agencies, GIS professionals, public safety organizations, and infrastructure stakeholders.
Implementation will occur in phases, focusing on governance improvements, technology upgrades, workforce development, and stronger partner engagement.
Looking Ahead
OEM plans to roll out the strategy in collaboration with GIS professionals and emergency management partners statewide. Future efforts will prioritize improving data sharing, enhancing operational mapping tools, and supporting major initiatives such as Next Generation 9-1-1.
Officials say the strategy reflects a continued commitment to innovation, coordination, and a “whole-community” approach to emergency preparedness across Oregon.
Emergency management and GIS professionals interested in collaboration opportunities can contact OEM’s GIS team via email at OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov.
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