About us
The goal of this group is to normalize the use of spatial SQL.
Running spatial operations natively inside a database or data warehouse (system of record) is often orders of magnitude faster than pushing heavy datasets through desktop GIS software or application-layer tools (systems of engagement). Yet, many of us still default to memory-bound GUI tools for complex analysis.
If you've ever waited hours for a spatial join, buffer, or intersect to finish—or hit a wall trying to scale your geospatial data—this group is for you.
What to expect:
- Real-world stories from the trenches (over a drink)
- Lightweight, easy-to-follow demos focused on pure spatial SQL syntax
- Zero vendor sales pitches—just code, architectures, and performance tuning
AI-assisted workflows welcomed (as long as you understand what the code is doing!)
Whether you're a GIS analyst looking to level up your SQL or a data engineer handling location data, join us to build faster, scalable spatial workflows.
Upcoming events
1
Spatial SQL and Beer
Cypress Street Pint and Plate, 817 W Peachtree St NW E125, Atlanta, GA, USThis is our inaugural event. We will meet at least monthly from here on out. The goal of this group is to normalize the use of spatial SQL.
If you're wondering where to start, our hero Matt Forrest has a 2026 guide.
Spatial Thoughts also has an excellent tutorial on the use of DuckDB to perform spatial queries against a couple of important resources, Overture Maps Foundation and Global Fields of The World.
Which brings us to spatial functions. Each spatial database has its own set. This is DuckDB's. This is how to do a buffer in spatial SQL.
Let's discuss that with a very basic example buffer analysis in this meetup. I told you we'll have light examples.
It's all about the discussion.
5 attendees
