Custom Map Tips

The Maps section of the Rural Assistance Center web site includes links to maps that can be customized using the Interactive Mapping System from the Center for Applied Research and Environmental Systems.

You can change a map so that it shows only your state or county. You can also add labels, boundaries and additional data to your map. Custom maps can be used in grant proposals, reports and other publications.

Please follow these steps to customize a map:

1. Check that your browser settings will work with all the features of the mapping system.
   
   Please go to the Browser Requirements for Using CARES Interactive Maps and make sure that each of the four requirements for using this system says "Yes." If any say "No," please follow the instructions provided so that your browser will work correctly with the mapping system.
   
   It is particularly important that you allow pop-up windows while using the CARES web site, because many of the menus, including the Print menu, appear as pop-ups.
2. Print out our Custom Map Tips (PDF) instructions and read the sections describing the changes you want to make. We recommend that you use a printed copy of these instructions, since it can be difficult to jump back and forth between the mapping system and another on-screen window of instructions.
3. Go to the Maps page and find the map that interests you. Maps that can be customized include a "Customize this Map" link. When you click on the link, your browser will open a new window that displays the map you've selected.
4. Follow the printed instructions in the Custom Map Tips instructions (Step 2) to change and print or save your map.