Unequal probability-based spatial sampling

Abstract

The geographic approach involves measuring the earth, organizing the resultant data, and analyzing it to understand spatial processes and relationships. GIS technologies are used extensively for the latter stages of the geographic approach but less often for sampling, an important component of measurement. This article shows how to use ArcGIS 10 for Desktop to create an efficient spatial sampling or suitability design using the Create Spatially Balanced Points geoprocessing tool available with the ArcGIS Geostatistical Analyst extension and other geoprocessing tools provided with the core product.