What data do you need to make a topographic map?

In the case of constructing a topographic map, you must extrapolate the placement of the appropriate elevation contour. For topographic profiles, you must extrapolate the contour of the landscape (that is, whether it goes up or down) when faced with repeating elevation contours.

How do you make a topographic map on Google Earth?

How to Add USGS Topographic Maps to Google Earth

1. Install Google Earth if you haven’t already.
2. Download the Google Earth topo map layer from the ArcGIS Services Directory (it’s the NGS Topo US 2D (MapServer) file).
3. When prompted, save the file to your computer.
4. Find and double-click the file.

What are the 5 Rules of topographic maps?

Topographic Map Rules

• Contour Lines Never Cross.
• Measuring Steepness.
• Stream Flow Direction.
• Contours Close.
• Concentric Circles.
• Elevation Between Lines.

How do you make a contour map?

The two ways to establish a contour map are the cross-section method and the trace contour method. To use the cross-section method, set a control or reference line at the center of the lot, then lay out and stake a grid; the elevation is determined at each stake in the grid relative to a benchmark.

How do I make a topographic map in Arcgis?

Procedure

1. Navigate to System Toolboxes > Spatial Analyst Tools > Interpolation > Topo to Raster.
2. Select the contour layer as the input feature data.
3. Specify the location of the output surface raster.
4. Set the output extent the same as the contour layer’s extent.
5. Click OK. A raster layer is created from the contour.

How do you make a profile of a landform or terrain on a topographic map?

In order to profile your landform, you need to know the elevations of each section. Then, using your known elevations, draw out contour lines corresponding to your landform’s elevations. Keep in mind contour lines will never cross.

How can I get free topo maps?

US Topo maps can be downloaded free of charge from several USGS websites. All maps can be viewed and printed with Adobe Reader or comparable PDF viewing software.

How do you make a contour plan?

How are topographic maps made today?

Historically, USGS topographic maps were made using data from primary sources including direct field observations. Those maps were compiled, drawn, and edited by hand. By today’s standards, those traditional methods are very expensive and time-consuming, and the USGS no longer has funding to make maps that way.

How do you use a contour map creator?

1. Select desired area on map. Click on the “Outline Area” button in the map below on the area you wish to map.
2. Preview contour map. Choose your unit of measurement (meters, feet) that you wish your output to be in.
3. Generate Google Earth File. Click on the “Generate” button,
4. Check out our free online training.