A GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR THE MINES OF SPAIN RECREATION AREA, DUBUQUE, 
IA

Cheryl Moonen1, John J. White1, Gerald L. Zuercher1, Dale H. Easley1, and Wayne 
Buchholtz2

1 Department of Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Dubuque, 2000 
University Avenue, Dubuque, IA 52001 

2 Mines of Spain Recreation Area, E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center, 8991 Bellevue 
Heights Road, Dubuque, IA 52003

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are collections of mapping, database, and 
analysis tools that enhance users' ability to utilize spatial data to solve 
problems and test hypotheses.  The Mines of Spain Recreation Area is immediately 
south of Dubuque, Iowa along the Mississippi River.  Land uses at this state 
park are multiple, including hiking trails, roads, natural areas, an abandoned 
quarry, wildlife-viewing areas, past mining activities, habitat studies, and 
agriculture.  Managing these sometimes-competing uses requires a good 
understanding of their spatial locations and proximity, the varying topography, 
types of vegetation, and habitat change through time.  GIS has proven to be a 
useful tool in helping create this understanding.  A baseline GIS created for 
the Mines of Spain includes the locations of roads and trails, soil types, 
slope, and historical photography.  Additional data layers linking recent 
research and survey activities on small mammals and vegetation have been 
incorporated and data from future research activities can be easily included.  
The GIS product will enhance the spatial management of this multiple-use park.

Keywords:  GIS, Mines of Spain, Iowa