2026 Big Sky GeoCon - From Data to Design

The partnership between local governments and the Montana State Library for parcel data integration has continually evolved to support more efficient and accurate local contributions. Building on this collaboration, Butte-Silver Bow has enhanced its parcel stewardship by developing Python-based QA/QC tools that identify topology issues, duplicate geometries, geocode problems, and other inconsistencies before submission to the state. These scripted workflows improve local data quality and streamline integration with the statewide system. This presentation will highlight the history of the Butte-Silver Bow–Montana State Library partnership, recent technical advances, and the shared benefits of cooperative parcel data stewardship in Montana.

NOAA's National Geodetic Survey (NGS) defines, maintains, and provides access to the National Spatial Reference System (NSRS), which is a common foundation for geospatial data that serves as the basis for civilian surveying and mapping in the United States. Changes in technology and a better understanding of the dynamic earth have made it necessary to improve the NSRS to be of better use for modern applications. Currently, NGS is in the process of modernizing the NSRS, updating the existing horizontal datums with a suite of geometric reference frames and the vertical datums with a gravimetrically-derived geopotential datum.

This presentation mandates annual updates to the Forest Cover Type (FCT) dataset and centralized storage in the BIA Enterprise portal. It defines data standards, standardized workflows, and staff training to ensure integrity, accuracy, and efficient collection, processing, and sharing. FCT supports the Regional Forest Management Plan, reflecting evolving inventories, management goals, and past actions. Originally developed regionally (2003–2018) and revised notably in 2013–2014 using NAIP imagery, the protocol consolidates update procedures and user instructions for field and office contributors.

Discussing the challenges and freedoms that come with working as a solo GIS department. Highlighting asset management, empowering staff, growth policy, current projects.

Effective geospatial governance is key to building a strong and sustainable GIS for your organization. In this session, we’ll explore how policies, tools, and web applications can be implemented to create a reliable GIS framework that promotes efficiency and reusability.

We’ll share the Montana State Library’s experience in developing a geospatial governance policy, including insights from our working policy documents, scripting tools, and dashboards. Attendees will gain practical knowledge on leveraging these resources to establish or enhance their own geospatial governance strategies.

This presentation will provide an overview and update on the MSDI Administrative Boundaries Framework including Geo-Enabled Elections, U.S. Census Bureau Programs, Managed Areas, and the MSDI Administrative Boundaries Framework Data Quality Assessment Matrix and Improvement Plan.

The Montana State Library is the steward of the Montana Spatial Data Infrastructure (MSDI) Cadastral Framework. This theme includes the datasets of the OwnerParcels, Public Lands, Conservation Easements and the Public Land Survey System (PLSS). This presentation will provide an update about the Cadastral Framework data. Secondly, a review of the Cadastral Data Quality Assessment & Data Value Improvement will be discussed & feedback from the audience is welcome.

This panel brings together Montana GIS managers, accessibility practitioners, and federal and local government representatives to discuss practical approaches to improving geospatial accessibility. Panelists will share lessons learned from statewide collaborations, working‑group efforts, and real‑world ADA Title II and Section 508 WCAG compliance challenges within GIS programs. The discussion will also include engagement with Esri on software design, configuration, and engineering efforts that support accessible mapping. Attendees will take away practical insights and actionable steps for advancing accessible geospatial services.

Join members of the Montana Geospatial Information Advisory Council for a dynamic discussion on the evolving landscape of statewide geospatial coordination. Panelists will share what inspired them to join the Council, how their service has influenced their work, and how emerging technologies—such as AI-driven analytics, real-time sensor networks, and cloud-native GIS—are reshaping agency operations across Montana.

The conversation will explore leadership challenges and opportunities, including prioritizing initiatives with limited resources, supporting local and tribal governments, navigating competing stakeholder needs, and advocating for policy and funding. Panelists will also look ahead to the next five years, offering insights on the skills GIS professionals will need, the future of statewide collaboration, and what success looks like for Montana’s geospatial community.

This session offers a unique opportunity to explore with the Council their role in guiding Montana's geospatial strategy and a forward-focused dialogue on strengthening the state's geospatial ecosystem.