Potential uses for geographic information system-based planning and decision support technology in intensive food animal production.

Although geographic information systems (GIS) have been used in many disciplines, the available technology in planning and decision support has only recently begun to be used in intensive animal production, in areas such as confined animal feeding operations. GIS-based planning and decision support systems have the potential to enhance many aspects of intensive animal production, such as disease monitoring and prevention, emergency management and nutrient waste disposal. Current uses of GIS in animal production are reviewed. Potential uses are illustrated using the example of the poultry industry on the Delmarva Peninsula, USA.