Interpreting Topographic Maps using GIS

Abstract

Topographic maps provide detailed information about the land which can be used for many purposes including hydrographic studies, man’s impact on the environment, historical vs current land data, and examination of striking landform features. Extremely accurate topographic maps have been made of every part of New York State and the United States. With access to GIS computer system students and teachers can create and access topographic maps and use these as a model for many earth science concepts.