About QG

Why Quercus (kwer-cus) Geographic?

Quercus is the botanical genus name for oak trees and shrubs.

In many ways, what I do is inspired by oaks, especially the oaks of the Southern Appalachian mountains. The Quercus species here are crucial to the environment, in a constant collaboration with their peers in forest, the soil, and the numerous animals and insects they support. Oaks are also quite adaptable, thriving in both dry, rocky soils and wet, loamy soils, and adapting well to a wide range of temperatures and site conditions. Scatter across the Appalachian mountains, these beautiful trees greet you on numerous adventures.

And that’s just it.

To me, Quercus signifies community, curiosity, and adventure, something I aspire to reflect in both my work and the way I live. That, and I think trees are pretty neat.

Sam Compton

Environmentalist, Rock Climber, Professional Map Nerd

“Hello there weary traveler! Thanks for stopping in. If you’ve made it this far, you’ve probably discovered that I like trees, rocks, and maps. I’m a simple man, really.

After originally being trained as a forester in both the Southwest (Flagstaff, AZ) and the Southeast (Asheville, NC), I quickly became enamored with GIS and data analysis (I know, total nerd). For me, it unlocked a way to combine my loves for puzzles, art, and math with my passions for forestry, recreation access, and climate science.

I’m excited for the opportunity work with a diverse set of clients and a broad range of data, GIS, and map objectives. Whether it’s general GIS guidance, a simple custom contour map, LiDAR visualizations, or complex data analysis, I’m confident that I can help bring your ideas to life and meet your objectives.”

Sam Compton, Founder of Quercus Geographic LLC