A web-enabled GIS utilizing up-to-date geographic data is an essential tool for first responders and those charged with preventing, detecting, preparing for, and recovering from terrorist attacks or natural disasters. CGI members are participating in the development of the Missouri Emergency Response Geographic Information System (MERGIS). As shown in Fig. 1, the development of MERGIS requires input and interaction from first responders, local, state, and federal government (DHHS) agencies.

The following MERGIS action items are currently being pursued as part of Missouri's Homeland Security Strategic Plan:

Action 1: Inventory, build, acquire, and maintain statewide GIS databases necessary to support MERGIS applications. Only about 20% of geospatial data layers required for MERGIS are presently available.

Action 2: Development of Emergency Response (ER) tools and applications including: a) rapid response GIS with event spatial data collection, and b) desktop emergency response & event decision support.

Action 3: Coordinate and delineate organizational roles and responsibilities to support MERGIS development, implementation, and maintenance.

Action 4: Support state and local emergency management efforts including training, education, and utilization of MERGIS.

Fig. 2 shows the Internet Mapping Service (IMS) portion of one MERGIS application available to users through a web site. The system requires little or no GIS experience so it can be easily used by first responders. In addition, it allows emergency response managers access to MERGIS without leaving their office. Finally, event data collected from the field can be added and viewed in near-real time.

Fig. 3 shows a portable, rapid-response GIS. This is utilized by a team of GIS professionals that are prepared for dispatch anywhere in the state on very short notice. The team's primary function is for decision support and risk analysis in the immediate area of the event.