Want to explore Rockingham County beyond its scenic beauty? Geographic Information Systems (GIS) offers a powerful digital lens into the county’s data landscape. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply curious, this guide unlocks the potential of Rockingham GIS, providing access to maps, data, and resources.
Rockingham County, Virginia, provides access to a wealth of geospatial data through its GIS platform. This resource goes beyond simple maps, offering a deep dive into the county’s resources and potential. Let’s explore how to use this powerful tool and the data it offers.
Accessing Rockingham GIS
The primary access point for Rockingham GIS is the county’s official GIS portal. This user-friendly platform allows you to explore various map layers, zoom in on specific areas, and even draw directly on the map to highlight points of interest. For property-specific details, Vision Government Solutions integrates with the Rockingham GIS system, enabling searches by address, owner name, or tax map number. The ArcGIS data hub may offer additional resources and tools.
Understanding the Data Available
Rockingham GIS offers a diverse array of data, including:
Data Type
Description
Parcels
Information on land ownership and boundaries.
Structures
Details on buildings and other constructed features.
Zoning
Data on zoning regulations and districts.
Election Districts
Information on voting boundaries.
Roads
Data on the road network.
Addresses
Precise locations of addresses within the county.
Environmental Data
Information on natural resources such as water bodies and forests.
Topographic Data
Elevation and terrain data.
Aerial Imagery
High-resolution aerial photographs.
Custom Data
Shapefiles and prints available upon request for specific needs.
This data is invaluable for various purposes, from planning and development to research and analysis. Remember, responsible usage is crucial. The data, owned and maintained by Rockingham County, has controlled distribution. Digital copies are generally restricted to internal use, and sharing with third parties is usually prohibited. While data is updated regularly, minor inaccuracies may exist. Contact Rockingham County directly with any questions.
GIS vs. Google Maps: Unveiling the Power of Geospatial Data
While Google Maps is a familiar navigation tool, you might be wondering how it relates to GIS. They are related but distinct. Google Maps utilizes some GIS data, but GIS itself offers a far broader and more powerful set of tools.
Beyond Navigation: The Real Power of GIS
GIS (Geographic Information System) provides a framework for gathering, organizing, and analyzing location-based information. It reveals hidden relationships and patterns, empowering urban planners, environmental scientists, and businesses to make informed decisions.
Real-World Applications of GIS
GIS plays a vital role in diverse fields:
Disaster Relief: Pinpointing affected areas and directing resources.
Public Health: Tracking disease outbreaks and identifying vulnerable populations.
Business: Optimizing supply chains and creating targeted marketing campaigns.
GIS is constantly evolving, integrating AI, machine learning, and big data. These advancements suggest enhanced predictive capabilities and new applications. Ongoing research explores the ethical considerations and vast possibilities of GIS.
Discovering Rockingham County: Beyond the Map
Rockingham County, nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, boasts a rich tapestry of history, nature, agriculture, and community.
A Journey Through Time
The county’s history spans from Native American settlements to European pioneers traversing the Great Wagon Road and establishment as a County in 1778, naming it after the Marquess of Rockingham. Harrisonburg, the county seat, emerged in 1780 as a central hub.
Nature’s Embrace
Rockingham County’s diverse landscapes, from the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains to the Shenandoah River, offer abundant outdoor recreation.
Agriculture: A Way of Life
Agriculture is central to Rockingham County’s identity. The thriving farm-to-table movement connects local farms with restaurants, providing fresh, local produce.
Small-Town Charm
The county’s charming small towns foster a strong sense of community. Each town offers a unique character and history.
Rockingham County, VA Property Taxes: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding property taxes in Rockingham County involves navigating a complex formula. This guide provides clarity on rates, assessments, and resources.
Current Tax Rates
As of July 2022, the real estate and mobile home tax rate is $0.68 per $100 of assessed value, reduced from $0.74 to offset inflation. This decision by the Rockingham Board of Supervisors, with a 4-1 vote, aimed to alleviate financial burdens on residents. “The Rockingham Board of Supervisors voted 4-1 in favor of adopting a lowered tax rate from $0.74 per $100 of assessed value to $0.68 in order to help battle the problems of inflation,” a local resident commented, reflecting community sentiment.
Calculating Your Property Tax
While the base rate is $0.68, several factors contribute to the final tax amount. The median property tax payment is approximately $969, based on a median home value of roughly $192,900 (typically ranging between $188,467 and $197,333). Individual property assessments significantly impact the final tax bill.
Resources for Property Owners
The Rockingham County website offers official tax rate information and access to GIS mapping. The County Assessor’s office provides property-specific details, tax history, and appeals guidance. Property tax rates and assessments can change; staying informed via these resources is recommended.
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