Glossary for Geospatial Science

MOSS:� Map Overlay and Statistical System.� A pioneer vector-based geographic information system (GIS) developed and still widely used by groups in the USDI, especially the USF&WS and BLM.� MOSS vector data files contain strings of coordinate pairs which describe closed polygonal areas, lines, and single point features.� Common boundaries between adjacent polygons are repeated twice in this data structure, once with each polygon.� Much geographic data is available in this format, especially that portion of the NWI wetland maps which have been digitized.