About MERLIN Online

WHO - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) worked with MicroImages, Inc. during 1999 to create an Internet interface to DNR’s MERLIN System. At that time, the existing MERLIN System provided access to over 150 gigabytes of geographic information products (spatial data) that are created by DNR and many other state, federal and private sources. These other sources include the Department of Planning, Department of Housing and Community Development, State Highway Administration, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, SPOT Image Corporation and VARGIS, LLC. Since that time, the system has grown to include many more data layers from those and additional partners.

WHAT - The MERLIN System has been in use at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources since 1994. It origianlly operated across the DNR network using the TNTatlas® software interface. DNR employees were given a three hour training program in the operation of the system that included information on data types and their structure. Training for Internet users (other than the Help Manual) is impractical. Therefore, a more logical data structure was implemented for the Online system, and various tutorials and documentation were prepared for Internet users. The MERLIN system is now solely internet-based, and DNR employees access the atlas in the same manner as other internet users.

MERLIN Online is an electronic atlas that allows a user to produce a custom "map" for any location in Maryland, including their choice of base map and theme data layers. It also allows the user to query the system to obtain information provided about specific locations. MERLIN Online represents a significant departure from other "online" GIS systems, resulting in a relatively simple user interface. The "Info Tips" feature allows a user to point to a location on any map (regardless of the layers displayed) and obtain the single most important piece of information about that site for all of the data layers in the system. Another powerful feature of the system is access to simple metadata (data about data) which are provided for novice users of the system. Metadata helps them better understand the data they are viewing. It explains who produced the data, how they were produced, the accuracy of the data, their age and the attribute codes that are used in the system.

Other features include the ability to measure distance and area, the x and y coordinates of the cursor in several map projections, a map legend function, hyper-links from data layers to other web pages, a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) button and a Help Guide that can be printed to assist a user as they learn to navigate through the system. The system will soon provide better printing capabilities and may soon include true GIS tools such as buffers and intersects.

HOW - MERLIN Online users must have a modern web browser, with Java™ enabled. When a user connects to the system, a Java™ program is sent to their machine, allowing them to use the built-in features as they access data on the DNR network. Viewing privileges can be provided to all data for DNR users, while public access for select data can be restricted. MERLIN Online complies with all of the State’s computer security policies.

WHEN - MERLIN Online has been accessible at DNR since June 1999. The "finished" system was released for public use on December 8, 1999.

WHERE - It doesn’t make any difference where you are. Find a machine with a current web browser and Internet access, and you can to connect to MERLIN Online for your spatial data needs.

WHY - Because everyone is "hungry" for spatial data to help them make better informed decisions. Promoting MERLIN Online supports the Department’s mission, provides for wise economic development in Maryland and promotes stewardship of our natural resources.