III.

Mapping Land Use

Direct observations in the field using previously surveyed base maps, and aided by aerial photographs, have traditionally provided most land use information. However, the introduction of remote sensing techniques using satellites such as the American Landsat series or the French SPOT, and of computer-based geographical information systems (GIS) capable of processing and comparing very large quantities of data, has led to more detailed and accurate land-use information becoming available. Mixes of mosaics of different land uses can now be mapped accurately, changes in land use can be monitored on a fine scale, and better judgements made about land capability. Land capability indices integrate a range of factors such as soil, micro-climate, slope, and ground stability, and are designed to help make the best use of land.