First Experience Working with Web Soil Survey
The Web Soil Survey (WSS) is a user-friendly online tool provided by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), offering extensive soil data through the National Cooperative Soil Survey. There are four basic steps to start working with WSS.
The first step is to define your area of interest. The tool
provides multiple options for defining an Area of Interest (AOI), including
options such as starting from a shapefile, an address, or, in my case,
selecting a national park via the National Park Service option. Users can
download the AOI as a shapefile or link for future reference.
However, the tool has limitations in generating maps for
very large Areas of Interest (AOIs), which can be particularly challenging for
users requiring extensive geographical coverage or working with large-scale
projects that span vast areas. For example, in my study area, Shenandoah
National Park, which covers a vast area, I was only able to use a portion of
the park to create maps using the Web Soil Survey.
The second step is to view your area of interest with the
Soil Map. WSS enables users to generate detailed soil maps and printable
versions complete with details such as legends and reports. Clicking on map
units in the legend provides comprehensive descriptions. While WSS offers
general soil information crucial for project planning, on-site soil
investigations are recommended for site-specific information.
The third step is to explore your area of interest with the
Soil Data Explorer tab. This feature enhances usability by presenting
Suitabilities and Limitations for Use, illustrating how well an area suits
purposes like building site development, construction materials, disaster
recovery planning, and land management. Of particular interest is the
information on Recreational Development, covering paths and trails, camps, picnic
areas and etc. WSS also offers insights into Soil Properties and Qualities,
Ecological Sites, and various Soil Reports, making it an essential tool for
comprehensive soil analysis and planning needs.
The "Ecological Sites" option in the WSS is a valuable tool for understanding land's potential for
supporting various types of vegetation and its response to management
practices. It helps identify the best methods for restoring land to its natural
state, such as choosing suitable plants and sustainable land management
practices. This tool is particularly interesting to me because it aids in
restoring important flora, creating habitats for various species, which aligns
with my academic interests and goals.
The last step is to check out and get your custom report
with various details. The Web Soil Survey tool provides a variety of options that
cater to different needs and interests. Whether you're a land manager,
conservationist, farmer, or researcher, you'll find valuable features tailored
to your objectives.
No comments:
Post a Comment