Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I utilize the data offered through CaSIL?

A: Most of the datasets made available through CaSIL are intended for use in Geographic Information System software packages. You will need appropriate software to make good use of the data. To get the most out of CaSIL please read the CaSIL User's Guide.

Q: My organization has developed GIS datasets and we would like to contribute them to CaSIL and to the public. How can do that?

A: By creating and maintaining a catalog of your data offerings in the California Environmental Information Library (CEIC), you can easily contribute to CaSIL. We certainly welcome contributions of useful datasets to the GIS community.

Q: What is the relationship between CaSIL and CEIC?

A: CaSIL is a collection of spatial data which are available for download. CEIC(California Environmental Information Catalog) is the online metadata management system which is also operated by the CERES program. CEIC facilitates the discovery of datasets in the CaSIL collection by providing specialized listings and search interfaces. CEIC also facilitates contributing to CaSIL by providing metadata publishing and management tools.

Q: How can I submit something to be listed in the CaSIL Collection of Planned & Proposed Datasets?

A: A quick registration will allow you to make entries. After your entries have been reviewed, they will be listed in the CaSIL Collection of Planned & Proposed Datasets.

Q: When I want to download a file or browse a data directory, I am asked to choose between more than one link. Why do I have to do that and which link should I choose?

A: The CaSIL data directories are mirrored at several physical locations to provide for better performance and availability. Typically, it's a good idea to choose the mirror which is closest to your geographic location, but if you have trouble connecting or dowloading files, try using an alternate mirror.