Use of slope, aspect, and elevation maps derived from digital elevation model data in making soil surveys

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Abstract

Maps showing different classes of slope, aspect, and elevation were developed from U.S. Geological Survey digital elevation model data. The classes were displayed on clear Mylar at 1:24 000-scale and registered with topographic maps and orthophotos. The maps were used with aerial photographs, topographic maps, and other resource data to determine their value in making order-three soil surveys. They were tested on over 600 000 ha in Wyoming, Idaho, and Nevada under various climatic and topographic conditions. Field evaluations showed that the maps developed from digital elevation model data were accurate, except for slope class maps where slopes were <4%. The maps were useful to soil scientists, especially where (i) class boundaries coincided with soil changes, landform delineations, land use and management separations, and vegetation changes, and (ii) rough terrain and dense vegetation made it difficult to traverse the area. In hot, arid areas of sparse vegetation, the relationship of slope classes to kinds of soil and vegetation was less significant.

Publication type Book chapter
Publication Subtype Book Chapter
Title Use of slope, aspect, and elevation maps derived from digital elevation model data in making soil surveys
DOI 10.2136/sssaspecpub20.c7
Year Published 1987
Language English
Publisher Soil Science Society of America
Publisher location Madison, WI
Contributing office(s) Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center
Description 14 p.
Larger Work Type Book
Larger Work Title Soil survey techniques, SSSA Special Publication 20
First page 77
Last page 90
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