I've used free, open source GIS software on my mac laptop:
QuantumGIS
GrassGIS
I have also found Google Sketchup to be a useful, free tool great for 3D
simulations.
I also work professionally using VectorWorks 2008, an excellent program but
quite expensive. I am perplexed at the lack of Open Source CAD software... I
guess these are complex applications to create.
I think it is important to remember that even the best (read: way-expensive)
GIS/GPS software & gadgets often does not reliably get better resolution
than 1-2m. This would make it un-ideal for garden beds, but reasonably OK
for broad-acre designs.
Some folks I'm working with are experimenting with the smaller CAD programs
- miniCAD, turboCAD, etc... I'll ask them to keep this list posted on their
experiences.
Happy computer-geeking!
Cheers,
Ethan
On Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 1:21 PM,
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--
Ethan C. Roland, M.S.
www.appleseedpermaculture.com - Regenerative Design & Development
www.gaiauniversity.org - Degrees of Freedom
www.permacultureacrossborders.org - International Permaculture
"The voyage of discovery is not in seeking new landscapes but in having new
eyes" - Marcel Proust