MappingSupport is an independent geospatial resource hub that provides free tools, datasets, and tutorials for working with maps, GPS data, and public GIS systems. Created by developer Joseph Elfelt, the platform focuses on making advanced mapping technology accessible to everyday users, including activists, researchers, and emergency responders.
The site hosts several practical tools, including GISsurfer, a browser-based mapping application that allows users to view and interact with thousands of public-facing government GIS data layers without needing specialized software or technical expertise. It also includes utilities like FindMeSAR, which displays precise GPS coordinates and accuracy data to help users communicate their location in emergencies, and GeoJPG, an offline-capable mapping tool for viewing georeferenced images.
One of MappingSupport’s most valuable contributions is its curated list of thousands of public ArcGIS server endpoints from federal, state, and local governments. These datasets allow users to access real-time geographic information such as land ownership, infrastructure, environmental data, and disaster mapping layers.
For researchers, organizers, and community responders, MappingSupport functions as a powerful entry point into open geospatial intelligence. It enables users to visualize data, understand geographic patterns, and access public records that are often difficult to locate or interpret. The platform is particularly useful for situational awareness, land use research, disaster response, and investigative work that relies on location-based data.