Spatial Database

Any members still using a range, township, and section (grid) database should consider converting to a spatial database.  Grid databases can result in over coverage of a service area and can cause your company to receive unnecessary locate tickets.  Spatial database may reduce some of these tickets.  This is a more accurate and efficient way of defining your underground service areas.  There are three different ways for you to submit a spatial database. 

GPS Readings

GPS readings provide the most accurate database.   Readings should be in either Decimal Degrees or Degrees, Minutes, Seconds.  Blockage from buildings, overhangs, thick tree canopies, heavy cloud cover and weather can contribute to errors in GPS readings.  Having the incorrect time and date set in the unit can also cause errors.  Readings should be taken at every intersection and every 500 feet.  If the road or line is very curvy, readings should be taken every 500 feet and any where the road or line changes direction.  Readings should always be in order and grouped by county. 

Paper Maps

If your underground facilities run along the roadside you can use an paper map to highlight all the roads where you have underground facilities.  If your service covers an entire incorporated city, just outline that city and any roads that extend into the county that you have services on.  If you cannot get an updated paper map we will be happy to provide you with one at no charge.   

Digital Maps

We can accept most digital GIS files such as CAD, ArcView, Micro Station files, etc.  These files can be mailed to us on CD or emailed to gis@ms1call.org.  Please include the data projection (WGS84, State Plane, UTM, etc.).

After we receive your spatial information we will build a base database representing all of your underground facilities.  Then we will create a minimum of 400-foot buffer around that base data.  Please inform us if you need a larger buffer.

 As always, please keep us informed of any updates that need to be made to your database.  Keeping you company’s database up to date prevents unnecessary damages to your facilities.  Remember, we won’t know of any new lines you have put in the ground until you tell us.  We want both our member companies and excavators to dig safely while at the same time reduce damages to facilities.  

The following are a few methods for updating your spatial database:

 1.      Plat or drawing of the new area.

2.       Updated digital files.

3.      GPS Readings.

4.     Written description of the new area. 

Example:  Please include the following areas into (Member Name) database in Hinds County: 

a.      Bounds St. between Cedar Park Dr. and Keele St. 

b.      Briarwood Dr. from I-55 west 2000 ft.

c.      All streets in Eastover sub.

If you are interested in Spatial Database or if you feel your database may not be up to date please contact the GIS department by phone (601-368-1150) or email (gis@ms1call.org).