Geographical Information Systems

This unit of NARI provides technical advice on Geographical Information Systems and produces maps that when retrieved and manipulated can enable one to have a "birds eye view" of natural resources and agricultural practices or crops grown in different parts of the country. There are three (3) major agricultural databases kept at NARI. These databases are available in a Geographical Information Systems format or simply map-linked databases.

They can be presented as maps, tables and graphs.These databases are relevant to Researchers, Agriculturalists, Planners, Investors, Environmentalists, Schools and Universities or to anyone involved in planning development and land management in PNG.

Papua New Guinea Resources Information System (PNGRIS)

Contains Resource Mapping Units (RMUs) which are linked to information on natural resources (physical features, soils, climate, forests, vegetation), landuse, small-holder socio-economic activity. PNGRIS can be used for:

  1. Defining of agro-ecological zones
  2. Identifying areas suitable for crop production

Sample maps, using the PNGRIS map-linked database. Click below to enlarge.

Agro-Ecological Zones Altitude Ranges Annual Rainfall Ranges Landform Types PNG Road Networks

Mapping Agriculture Systems of PNG (MASP)

Contains information on food crops, fallow vegetation, soil fertility maintenance practices, agricultural technologies, population densities on used land and sources of income. MASP can be used for:

  1. Identifying areas where certain food crops are grown
  2. Estimate crop production and area under production of certain food crops

Sample maps, using the MASP map-linked database. Click below to enlarge.

Banana Growing Areas Casava Growing Areas Fallow Periods Fallow Types Kaukau Growing Areas

Farming Systems of PNG (FARMSYS)

Contains information on agriculture and socio-economic factors that interact to affect a farmer's way of farming. The information is basically what is contained in MASP plus sources of income, income per annum and access to essential government services. FARMSYS can be used for:

  1. Identifying areas where certain sources of income are dominant
  2. Identifying the ease of access to essential government services of villages in rural areas

Sample maps, using the FARMSYS map-linked database. Click below to enlarge.

Access to Services Income from all Sources Land Use Intensity



Before NARI makes these databases available to individuals or institutions, the institute ensures that the potential user is trained to use the databases. This involves a weeks training on how to manipulate the data to obtain what the user requires and to interpret the data. The installation and downloading of the databases are free but the services of the trainer have to be met by the interested party, including all travel and accommodation expenses.

For further information, contact:

GIS Unit
NARI Head Quarters
Sir Alkan Tololo Research Centre
Kana Aburu Haus
P.O Box 4415, LAE 411
Morobe Province
Papua New Guinea

Phone: (675) 475 1444
Fax: (675) 475 1450
Email: narihq@nari.org.pg or mark.tinah@nari.org.pg