Goal of the Cartography section

The Cartography section is committed to satisfying our client's needs with on-time error free delivery of the highest quality products and service. The cartography section will strive to ensure this quality by constantly monitoring the processes used by the staff against recognized standards and actively seeking ways to improve these processes incorporating feedback obtained from clients.

Role of the Cartography section

As part of the Earth Sciences Sector Information Division (Data Dissemination Division), the Cartography section produces complex, highly detailed multicoloured geological maps, poster maps, illustrations, figures and photographs for Geological Survey of Canada (GSC) scientists, geologists and other clients within Natural Resources Canada. The Section provides a comprehensive digital map production service using leading-edge mapping and Geographic Information System (GIS) software, digital imaging and photographic technologies for various GSC publications and bulletins. Geological map products are offset printed or plotted using the On-demand Plotting System. Geological map data sets are also available on CDROM upon request. Map production and cartographic support is provided to GSC regional offices ensuring consistency in map production database management, map plotting and archival procedures.

More specifically, major activities carried out within the Cartography section include:

• Producing and distributing digital and paper-based products such as GSC A-series maps, GSC Open File maps, Pocket figures for GSC bulletins, as well as other publications related to the field of geoscience
• Developing and maintaining cartographic production guidelines, specifications and standards
• Developing and maintaining a digital map production system (ArcInfo Graphical User Interface) for local and regional cartographers
• Providing cartographic training, GIS training and support both locally and in regional offices
• Providing a comprehensive On-Demand printing, laminating and archiving service
• Providing digital imaging, scanning and graphic services
• Providing technical photographic services
• Regulating and maintaining the NTDB base map subscription service
• Contributing to the development and maintenance of geological map database standards
• Providing coordination and preparation of maps for offset printing

  The activities of the Cartography section are principally linked to the sector's goals one and five. The activities are divided between the geospatial and geoscientific knowledge infrastructure of goal one and the forward-looking, rewarding, and effective and efficient workplace of goal five.