Until GPS devices were available it was impossible to track wild animals day and night to study their habits and the way they enter acted with the environment. By using GPS devices it is now possible to attach tracking devices to wild animals and study their movements and ranges they live in. By using GPS tracking devices attached to animals in the wild, both conservation groups and the government have been able to learn how to better safeguard animals that can be a problem to society as well as those animals on the endangered list. We are now better able to meet the needs of the public and the environment of the animals endangered by mans encroachment. GPS has allowed data collection that was impossible before. We can gather information of great importance to endangered animals behavior and the areas they occupy.

We also can use GPS technology to study wilderness areas wildlife, terrain and human habitat and how they interact to each other. By using GPS coordinates it is possible to plan conservation efforts and human development. By using GPS and aerial observation of these areas it is possible to make these decisions across large areas.

Nations now use GPS technology to map out areas for collecting taxes and leasing mining properties. GPS technology allows tidal information to be collected and studied. Leases for growing oysters and aquaculture are mapped by GPS.

It is possible to attach GPS devices to buoys for tracking oil spills. GPS can be used on helicopters and planes to map the areas with wildfires so officials can more efficiently deploy fire fighting efforts.

GPS is being used and developed to help predict and give early warnings of earth quakes.

GPS is a very important tool in the effort to help protect and enhance earth’s environment. As GPS technology continues to evolve we will find and develop more uses for GPS to help with the earth’s environmental protection.