Debris Flow and Large-Scale Landslide Disaster Prevention Information Network

A Geomorphological Map, or landform map, is a cartographic product spanning the fields of geomorphology and cartography. It functions as a classification system that graphically records the distribution of 『landforms』, surface features, and near-surface geological materials.                    

                                                                                           

Geomorphological mapping originated in Europe in the mid-20th century, primarily to meet post-war land reconstruction needs. Countries including the UK, Germany, Poland, Italy, Japan, and Canada have all developed their own methodologies.                    

                       
• Origin: Mid-20th century in Europe, driven by post-World War II reconstruction demands.
                       
• Scaling: Employs multiple scales, often produced based on existing 『contour map』s.
                       
• Standards: Production standards and map legends are flexible and adjusted according to national conditions.
                   

The five main categories of information typically featured on geomorphological maps are crucial for understanding the evolution of landform units, the forces at play, and potential hazards.                    

Modern methods emphasize precision, detail, and visual analysis, and are increasingly applied to risk assessment and disaster communication.                    

                       
• Traditional: Primarily based on field surveys, manual interpretation of aerial photographs, and 『contour map』s (paper format).
                       
• Modern: Digitalization, integration of Remote Sensing (RS) and GIS, vectorization, and quantitative analysis.
                   

In collaboration with the Geomorphology Laboratory of the Department of Geography at National Taiwan Normal University and the National Science and Technology Center for Disaster Reduction (NCDR), we have completed the digitalization and systemic integration of multiple geomorphological maps. This work has made both historical and the latest topographic information available via the "Big Geospatial Information System (BigGIS)." These map resources provide specific morphological or locational terrain information, complementing 『contour map』s and 『hazard potential map』s. By allowing users to display multiple layers, the system enhances flexibility and accuracy for terrain analysis, disaster prevention and management, and planning applications.                    

Key Achievements

                       
• Completed the digitalization of geomorphological maps for the Muzha, Caotun, Chenggong, Antong, Laiyi, and Taoyuan sheets.
                       
• Established digital map tiles to provide specific morphological or locational information, offering an alternative reference beyond traditional topographical or 『hazard potential map』s.
                       
• In the Big Geospatial Information System, multiple map layers can be displayed simultaneously, offering users a more diverse selection of map resources.