Georgia Tech activities

Mountain Gorilla Protection: A Geomatics Approach

"Gorillas in the data base"

Georgia Tech Research and Activities

Paul Beatty, center, of the Georgia Tech Center for Geographic Information Systems discusses an image with Dr. Safari Bonfils, left, dean of engineering at the National University, and Ntihemuka Joel, a computer science technician there. Photo courtesy of Georgia Tech

The Georgia Institute of Technology has become involved in the project in 1998. Dr. Nick Faust of Georgia Tech brings a great deal of experience and capabilities to the project. One aspect of their work is to install a working GIS capability in Rwanda, and to train Rwandans to become directly involved in the project and install GIS capabilities in Rwanda.

For example, DFGF International has established a multi-faceted project with Georgia Tech, Clark Atlanta University and the National University of Rwanda to establish a Geographic Information System (GIS) center in Rwanda , with emphasis on remote sensing technology. Scientists from DFGFI and these universities are using these new tools to study the gorillas' fragile habitat, to help determine how many gorillas the land can support, to assess habitat loss and better manage protected areas. This work involves creating virtual environments for training students in Africa and in the United States on how to use the technology, and finding ways to replicate this scientific model in other parts of Africa where endangered species live.

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For more information contact Scott Madry or the Diane Fossey Gorilla Fund