The Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources (IRNR) recently upgraded the Trinity River Information Management System (TRIMS) and launched the new version to the public. TRIMS is an online mapping tool that provides free data access to users for a variety of purposes. These purposes could be as simple as measuring acreage and/or fencelines for better land management, or as complex as conservation planning for regional coordinators.Multiple data layers exist in TRIMS with the most up to date information available. Data that can be accessed include soil types, hydrology, elevation, and land cover within the counties comprising the Trinity River Basin. TRIMS is a great tool for anybody owning land within the Trinity Basin. Ranchers and farmers will appreciate TRIMS for the simple measuring tools and other information, such as soil types, that allow them to enhance agricultural production on their land. For those interested in managing for wildlife or combining agricultural practices with wildlife activities, this information together allows land managers the opportunity to examine areas on their land that can be restored wildlife habitat such as native grasslands, wetlands, and bottomland hardwoods.
A simple interface makes it easy for regular folks to use and provides another tool in their belt for better land management. For a more thorough discussion of TRIMS, read the "Habitat Restoration in the Middle Trinity River Basin" extension publication that can be found on the Trinity Waters home page.