4 NCIC Data Acquisition Guide

The National Cartographic Information Center (NCIC) is the information branch of the National Mapping Program. NCIC gathers descriptions of cartographic products held by Federal, State and local agencies, and private companies. Computerized information systems are used to edit, store, and distribute these descriptions. The Aerial Photography Summary Record System (APSRS) is NCIC's system for determining if photographs of a particular area, with a particular set of characteristics, are available, and if so, where they can be found. This guide defines the procedures for planning and conducting visits to potential contributors to the APSRS data base. The guide also defines acquisition responsibilities of the contributor, State affiliates, mapping centers, and NCIC headquarters. As a Data Acquisition specialist, you are encouraged to seek innovative approaches to acquiring data and to suggest additions or changes to this guide.