Soil mapping approach in GIS using landsat satellite imagery and dem data

Abstract

The objective of this study was to create base soil survey maps of the studied lands using Landsat satellite imagery and Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data in a GIS framework. Specific goals were to generate soil maps and to test the usage probability of slope class map overlies colour composite images as a preliminary map for soil survey in a hilly terrain. Surrogate soil-landscape data layers were derived from Landsat satellite imagery and a 10 m DEM. The data were also used to produce 3D-view with slope class boundaries superimposed Landsat image and relief shaded map as a colour map in order to select possible site of soil profile pits and to define physiographic units. Six soil series formed on two different physiographic units were determined, described and sampled. Soil profiles have been classified according to Soil Taxonomy and FAO-Unesco soil map of the World legend classification systems. The methodology was adequate for soil survey and mapping of some types of soils.