Blogs and other References

• Hi.Stamen (https://hi.stamen.com/): Stamen is a design firm specializing in cartography and data visualization. Their blog features projects that they are working on, as well as helpful tips, hints, and inspiration.
• North River Geographic Systems Blog (https://www.northrivergeographic.com/blog): NRGS is a GIS consulting firm that primarily uses open-source geospatial software and offers tips and training throughout the year.

Software

• QGIS (https://www.qgis.org/): A free and open-source GIS software package with an active and helpful community. An excellent alternative to commercial GIS software packages.

Data

• Stamen Maps (http://maps.stamen.com/): Stamen has been making beautiful maps and data visualizations for years and have made some of their base maps available. I’m very much looking forward to working some of these into future projects!
• The National Map – Data Delivery (https://www.usgs.gov/core-science-systems/ngp/tnm-delivery/): An excellent data warehouse, particularly for physical attributes such as hydrology, topography, land cover, and more.
• The National Map – Map Services (https://viewer.nationalmap.gov/services/): Similar to the prior resource, but with links to map services for several USGS datasets.