Ethnic Settlements on Topographic Maps

Abstract

The large scale topographic map can be a valuable medium for the pedagogic study of cultural geography, as a documentary source for research, or as a supplement to field work. Ethnic settlements, by way of illustration, are distinct cultural features on the landscape and can be located on topographic maps through the compilation of settlement form interpretation keys or place-name indexes, and the study of ethnic history. With this information as a base, it is possible to develop an interpretation logic that will allow the location and identification of ethnic groups on topographic maps.     

Utilizing the Audio-Tutorial Approach

Abstract

Construction of raised-relief maps by students in middle school to high school is a rewarding “hands-on” experience. A major feature of this project is that materials are readily available, inexpensive and manageable by students themselves. Tracing from topographic maps on to inexpensive, easily-carved materials like cardboard or foam-core board involves the student in map interpretation techniques. Concepts such as interpreting elevations from contour lines, recognizing symbolization on a map, seeing raised-relief as representing “the lay of the land,” understanding map scale, and recognition of color in representation of elevations are part of this experience. Carving and construction of the raised-relief map give the student an appreciation of topographic features in 3-D. The finished model can serve as a display and learning tool for the future.     

Automated landslide mapping using spectral analysis and high-resolution topographic data: Puget Sound lowlands, Washington, and Portland Hills, Oregon

Landslide inventory maps are necessary for assessing landslide hazards and addressing the role slope stability plays in landscape evolution over geologic timescales. However, landslide inventory maps produced with traditional methods — aerial photograph interpretation, topographic map analysis, and field inspection — are often subjective and incomplete. The increasing availability of high-resolution topographic data acquired via airborne Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) over broad swaths of terrain invites new, automated landslide mapping procedures. We present two methods of spectral analysis that utilize LiDAR-derived digital elevation models of the Puget Sound lowlands, Washington, and the Tualatin Mountains, Oregon, to quantify and automatically map the topographic signatures of deep-seated landslides. Power spectra produced using the two-dimensional discrete Fourier transform and the two-dimensional continuous wavelet transform identify the characteristic spatial frequencies of deep-seated landslide morphologic features such as hummocky topography, scarps, and displaced blocks of material. Spatial patterns in the amount of spectral power concentrated in these characteristic frequency bands highlight past slope instabilities and allow the delineation of landslide terrain. When calibrated by comparison with detailed, independently compiled landslide inventory maps, our algorithms correctly classify an average of 82% of the terrain in our five study areas. Spectral analysis also allows the creation of dominant wavelength maps, which prove useful in analyzing meter-scale topographic expressions of landslide mechanics, past landslide activity, and landslide-modifying geomorphic processes. These results suggest that our automated landslide mapping methods can create accurate landslide maps and serve as effective, objective, and efficient tools for digital terrain analysis.     

Compilation and evaluation of a small-scale land resource map

A small-scale land resource map was compiled by combining generalised large-scale maps with auxiliary data and interpreted satellite images. The large-scale maps covered areas below the treeline and were generalised using an expansion-contraction algorithm (ECA). Areas above the treeline were added by manual interpretation of a Landsat TM image (Band 4,5,3). Certain features were also copied from small-scale topographic maps. The thematic accuracy was evaluated individually for different segments of the map, according to the production technique. The general accuracy was satisfactory in areas where the ECA technique had been applied. Areas mapped using auxiliary data were rendered inaccurately both below and above the treeline, but the result was still found acceptable. The results from satellite interpretation above the treeline were promising, but need to be improved. The image interpretation can either be refined by using alternative sensors, by improved training of the interpreters, or by adjusting the definition of the land resource classes in order to attain a better match between the class definitions and the result of the classification.     

Beyond Abstract Map Symbols

Abstract

Crucial aspects of the referent phenomena which provide the subject matter for cartographic symbolism are often overlooked by map interpreters in their haste to “read maps at a glance.” The blame rests largely on those practitioners of the environmental sciences who stress the simple, intuitive nature of maps, while effectively ignoring the true complexity of the cartographic communication process. Those persons who are responsible for traditional map interpretation training programs are also at fault for implying, through long emphasis, that symbol identification, position location, and navigation constitute the essence of map analysis. The intuitive acceptability of map symbols in spite of their abstract character is also a deceptive factor. The fact that there is far “more than meets the eye” to map interpretation is easily demonstrated by looking closely at several basic cartographic symbols. In order to become an effective map user the environmental scientist apparently must go well beyond the mastery of conventional map reading principles and learn to deal with diverse informational dimensions in the context of the map use purpose and the physical/cultural make-up of the geographical region under study.     

Paper versus Pixel: Effectiveness of Paper versus Electronic Maps To Teach Map Reading Skills in an Introductory Physical Geography Course

Abstract

This article addresses the lack of outcome-based research on the integration of technology into pedagogy at the undergraduate college level. It describes a study performed at a Midwestern university, testing the relative effectiveness of paper and electronic topographic maps for teaching map-reading skills, and considers the relationship between learning styles and paper or digital map preference. Results indicate that, although student map skill performance did not differ significantly with the use of paper or electronic maps, students preferred paper maps. Neither their performance nor their preferences were related to learning style. The article discusses the significance of these findings.     

Land form Analysis from Topographic MAPS

Abstract

The paper suggests and illustrates several techniques useful for analysis of land form characteristics from topographic maps. Five maps representing distinctly-different types of terrain are analyzed numerically, and the results are presented in map form. The analysis is based on indices derived from values of contour lines, and the indices are selected according to the salient characteristics of the terrain in a given area. Stream eroded, glacial, aeolian and structurally controlled types of terrain are analyzed to illustrate the variety of approaches necessary for analysis of land form from topographic maps.     

Map Reading and Abuse

Abstract

The various advantages and limitations of geographical mapping known to map users can be functionally related to the few basic principles which constitute the very nature of the cartographic technique. Numerous map interpretation errors may be traced in large part to a common failure on the part of map users to grasp and effectively deal with these same mapping principles. Since it is possible to identify situations in environmental decision making and planning where the misuse of maps, or outright map reading abuses, could lead to adverse human and environmental impact, the problem is indeed serious. Strategies for minimizing the misuse or abuse of geographical maps appear to rely most heavily on a thorough understanding of basic mapping principles.     

Conflation Automated map compilation

Abstract

Map compilation, or conflation, is now being accomplished by computer. Interactive routines manipulate the graphic images of two different digital maps of the same region in order to permit map similarities and differences to be recognized more easily. Rubber-sheeting one or both of the maps permits an operator or the computer to align the maps in stages through methods of successive approximation and to review each new alignment. The computer recognizes matches using mathematical relations of geometric position and graph network configuration to test for feature matches and, when the tests are satisfied, corresponding features can be flagged automatically as matches or highlighted for review by the operator. Techniques and methods developed for conflation systems have important applications in other areas of automated cartography and in image processing and computer graphics     

Use of the weighted Kappa coefficient in classification error assessment of thematic maps

Abstract

The weighted Kappa coefficient is applied to the comparison of thematic maps. Weighted Kappa is a useful measure of accuracy when the map classes are ordered, or when the relative seriousness of the different possible errors may vary. The calculation and interpretation of weighted Kappa are demonstrated by two examples from forest surveys. First, the accuracy of thematic site quality maps classified according to an ordinal scale is assessed. Error matrices are derived from map overlays, and two different sets of agreement weights are used for the calculation. Weighted Kappa ranges from 0.34 to 0.55, but it does not differ significantly between two separate areas. Secondly, weighted Kappa is calculated for a tree species cover classified according to a nominal scale. Weights reflecting the economic loss for the forest owner due to erroneous data are used for the computation. The value of weighted Kappa is 0.56.     

A Field Plan for Large-Scale Terrain Mapping

Abstract

Field work in geography often involves an exercise in which the student is required to make some type of map. Although most areas of the United States are well mapped, seldom are extremely large-scale (larger than 1:24,000) relief maps available. A method of contour-line mapping using small contour intervals and a large scale is appropriate in teaching several mapping principles and requires only a few simple tools and the use of elementary mathematics. Percent slope is established at uniform intervals along closely spaced traverses of the area to be mapped. Spot elevations are thus established from which contour lines can be determined. Accuracy in field-data collection and care in cartography will yield a very satisfactory map of terrain characteristics of small areas. Several concepts of maps and mapping are taught through direct student involvement.     

INCORPORATING INHERENT MAP ERROR INTO FLOOD-HAZARD ANALYSIS

Maps are an important source of data for planning and land use analysis of flood-prone areas. Map users with inadequate training are not aware that map errors can lead to ineffective decisions. Although inherent errors introduced by transformation, map construction, and symbolization are never identified on maps, they limit the effectiveness of maps as sources of data. Additional vertical and horizontal errors can be introduced during map use. Knowledge of the sources and amounts of such errors should result in more effective decisions regarding flood hazards.     

Assessment of land-use and land-cover changes from 1965 to 2014 in Tam Giang-Cau Hai Lagoon,central Vietnam

This study integrates the use of multi-source and multi-resolution remote sensing, topographic and field-based datasets to quantify land-use and land-cover (LULC) changes along a coastal stretch of Thua Thien Hue Province (central Vietnam). The LULC change analysis involves the Tam Giang-Cau Hai lagoon, the largest lagoon system in Southeast Asia, which is running nearly 70 km along the coast and having about 22,000 ha of water surface.The LULC change analysis was performed by computer-aided visual interpretation for 5 years (1965, 1989, 2000, 2006 and 2014) using satellite imagery from LANDSAT MSS, TM, ETM+ and 8, ASTER and SPOT5. National topographic maps were also used for the 1965 and 2000 years.To adequately represent the LULC features and peculiarities of central Vietnam coastal areas, an adapted CORINE Land Cover nomenclature was used where new 3rd and 4th level classes were adopted. Due to their intrinsic relative high spatial and radiometric resolution, SPOT5 images from 2006 were assumed as a reference for interpretation keys and first delineation. Changes were mapped by editing those vectors representing features which underwent LULC change prior or after 2006. Spatial and temporal changes were analyzed by post-classification approach and validated by ground truth information. High detail object-based classification was finally performed to infer the capability of medium spatial resolution imagery for extracting cadastral scale pond maps. The accuracy of classification was checked by a polygon by polygon comparison with an existing aquaculture facility inventory.Five LULC maps were obtained by applying a legend of 21 classes including two newly defined: “Aquaculture ponds” and “Mangrove forest”. The overall classification accuracy of the LULC map is 85% while the KHAT statistics 0.81 for the year 2006. Accuracy of the object-based aquaculture facilities classification is 84% or better for the SPOT5 imagery and 47.9% for the ASTER imagery. The study provides a synoptic LULC representation for the largest lagoon system of Southeast Asia and delivers quantitative estimates of main changes occurred during the last 50 years. Moreover, it reveals the adaptability of the CORINE Land Cover method outside European environment. Finally, SPOT5 provides good results to map aquaculture features at cadastral scale, even if in some circumstances (e.g. tidal areas), the integration with higher spatial resolution multispectral sensors should be envisaged.     

Comparing historical and contemporary maps - a methodological framework for a cartographic map comparison applied to Swiss maps

Topographic maps are powerful tools for the purpose of identifying land use and cover change (LUCC) as they are among the most reliable representations of past landscapes for the time prior to the existence of aerial photography. In light of the increased availability of historical maps, we argue that there is a need for a standardized process to assess map comparability in a systematic way in order to avoid, or at least minimize, the detection of spurious landscape changes due to incompatible map series. A full understanding of map quality, background and error distributions is fundamental to attain reliable LUCC results. The conceptual framework presented in this study considers the context, distortion and cartographic generalization of topographic maps. Furthermore, it includes an approach to homogenize the level of generalization of landscape elements (e.g. forests) from maps with different scales. To demonstrate its application, we assessed the comparability of seven topographic maps from Canton Zurich covering a time span of 336 years (1664–2000). Overall, for the maps of Canton Zurich, a wall-to-wall comparison of forest cover based on the topographic maps presented here can be problematic for the oldest map from 1664. Based on the results, a wall-to-wall comparison with the later maps is not recommended, due to its substantial distortion. Yet, after re-generalization of natural landscape elements, such as forests, a comparison based on landscape indices is possible, even for the oldest map. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that maps from the mid-19^th century onward possess an acceptable level of accuracy. This framework can be applied to a wide range of maps at regional, national, or global levels, providing the opportunity to look at land cover history over multiple centuries.     

Illustrating the Concepts of the Contour Symbol,Interval, and Spacing VIA 3-D Maps

Abstract

Although topographic maps are commonly used, few readers seem to understand them adequately. In this paper we attempt to develop a teaching strategy to remedy this deficiency. The teaching strategy is founded upon a group of integrated illustrations which take the reader from data-gathering through to the final map. We believe that these illustrations are simple enough to be understood by grade school children, yet sophisticated enough to satisfy adults.     

南北过渡带1∶5万植被类型图遥感制图案例研究

编制南北过渡带地区1∶25万和典型山地1∶5万植被类型图是南北过渡带综合科学考察的主要任务之一。以往植被类型图的编制都是采用大量的地面调查来完成的,地面调查方法虽然精确,但费时费力,并且由于自然条件的限制,地面调查往往只能覆盖较小的范围。遥感数据因为其全覆盖的优势,可以很好地弥补样方调查的局限性,但目前大范围的植被类型遥感信息提取尤其是自动提取方面仍然存在一定的困难和瓶颈。本文以1∶5万太白山植被类型图的编制为例,利用多源多时相的高分辨率遥感数据,结合地面调查数据、以往的各种比例尺的植被类型图数据和森林资源调查数据等,探讨并研究基于山地垂直带谱的中大比例尺植被类型图的遥感提取方法和制图方法。研究结果表明：① 山地植被垂直带谱可以有效地支持1∶5万山区植被类型图的遥感制图。利用太白山植被垂直带谱和1∶1万数字表面模型数据（DSM）可以生成具有垂直带谱信息的地形约束因子;将地形约束因子与多源多时相高分辨率遥感数据、地面调查数据、以往的小比例尺植被类型图数据等相结合,可以有效提取各级植被类型,从而实现中大比例尺植被类型图的编制。② 典型山地1∶5万植被类型图的遥感制图基本流程为植被型组解译→植被群系组、群系、亚群系解译→植被型、植被亚型分类,采取自上而下和自下而上相结合的分类方法来分类。本文的研究成果可以为中大比例尺植被类型图的编制提供示范和科学依据。     

Cartographic Methods for Determining the Qibla

Abstract

Islam is an important topic in human and regional geography instruction, and major textbooks include maps showing Islam's core and rapid expansion diffusion, along with the number of pilgrims to Mecca from different countries. Determining the qibla, the sacred direction for daily prayer, and the distance to Mecca are additional topics that link human geography, Islamic mathematical geography, and modern geographic information science. Recently discovered Persian instruments used a retro-azimuthal map projection devised by medieval Muslim mathematicians to compute the qibla and distance to Mecca from anywhere within the seventeenth century realm of Islam. Modern global maps that allow the qibla and distance to Mecca to be determined from all populated areas on earth are added to the Persian instruments.     

沙漠化地图的编绘与表示方法——以科尔沁地区为例

沙漠化专题图必须包括沙漠化土地现状、成因类型、沙漠化土地区划及沙漠化演变趋势的预测等内容。为此必须收集不同时期的航空相片、地形图、文字资料和统计资料作为编图的基础。在航片判读过程中,必须先为各项主要内容建立判读标志。沙漠化专题图的表示方法可以采用质底法、区域法和分区统计图表法等配合使用,使各类专题内容多层次地表示在地图上。根据内容的主次,可以分别采用不同色相、不同饱和度的颜色;不同形状的符号;不同粗细的线条互相组合叠置,使沙漠化地图的内容丰富而清晰,分布规律明显;图面色彩鲜艳而柔和,层次分明。在资料丰富,沙漠化专题内容研究较深入的情况下,采用系列图的形式更为理想。     

Delmarva Coastal Bays Map Contest for Fourth Graders

Abstract

This map contest is an exercise in geographic education for fourth grade students. It is sponsored by a grassroots, nonprofit environmental organization to raise the awareness and appreciation of students to the special features of their home region. The maps illustrate some aspect of the living resources or history of the region. As a case study of the map contest, this paper describes its design, publicity, appeal to teachers, judging of entries, and role of volunteers. It considers the research on map skills among young students and ways in which the contest supports geographic education.     

Road network detection from SPOT imagery for updating geographical information systems in the rural–urban fringe

Abstract

Visual interpretation of high-resolution satellite data has been useful for mapping linear features, such as roads and updating land-use changes. However, it would be beneficial to map new road networks digitally from satellite data to update digital databases using semi-automated techniques. In this paper, an algorithm called Gradient Direction Profile Analysis (GDPA) is used to extract road networks digitally from SPOT High Resolution Visible (HRV) panchromatic data. The roads generated are compared with a visual interpretation of the SPOT HRV multispectral and panchromatic data. The technique is most effective in areas where road development is relatively recent. This is due to the spectral consistency of new road networks. As new road networks are those of most interest to the land manager, this is a useful technique for updating digital road network files within a geographical information system of urban areas.