which software?

[Free]

Hi everybody,

I am looking for the best software for cartography: I want to digitalize and
manage information regarding a forest (200 ha).

I have a PC with the following features:

a.. Processor : AMD Athlon XP 1800+ 1,5 Ghz
b.. Video card: 9250 Radeon with 124 Mb memory
c.. Memory : 1,5 Mo
d.. OS : XP Family SP2

However, I do not need an integrated data + geographic software, I prefer to
manage geographic information with one specific software (i.e. the one I am
looking for) and data with Excel or Access on the other hand.

I would like to go for an open source freeware or shareware, because I
imagine it would have been extensively updated and enhanced by users.

I need to import an image and then to geo-reference it.

I need a multi-layers software, in order to superpose photo, map and forest
information (parcels of land etc.) and see them in transparency.

I need to import data from a GPS device (I will probably buy a Garmin 60
series).

I would find very convenient to be able to split a polygon in two, and to
use one common line as a border for two parcels.

I need to apply a color / texture and a legend to polygon categories.

à please give me your recommendations!

--

Antoine