The MAP program: building the digital terrain model.

Abstract

PLANS, a software package for integrated timber-harvest planning, uses digital terrain models to provide the topographic data needed to fit harvest and transportation designs to specific terrain. MAP, an integral program in the PLANS package, is used to construct the digital terrain models required by PLANS. MAP establishes digital terrain models using digitizer-traced contour lines from topographic maps, which are, in turn, processed into an elevation grid and stored in matrix form. MAP builds continuous digital terrain models that can cover large planning areas and builds them to any elevation grid spacing desired. Though the MAP method does not always result in digital terrain models that are a perfect equivalent to the topographic map, they should be adequate for planning. A guide giving detailed operating instructions for the programs is included.

Citation

Twito, R.H.; Mifflin, R.W.; McGaughey, R.J. 1987. The MAP program: building the digital terrain model. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-200. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northest Research Station. 22 p