Land use refers to how land is used by people. Land cover refers to the natural state of the land. Both concepts can be mapped or delineated at the

same time if necessary.

Aerial photos can be used to discuss land use planning proposals to the community.

Level I and Level II U.S.G.S. land use

classification system.Note that some

categories may not be applicable in some

regions.

a. Level III classification on a large scale imageb. Level II classification on a smaller scale image.

The process of creating a land-use map from an aerial photograph.

Urban planning overlay/map

Oblique planning overlay

Sample land-use map, low detail

Sample land-use map, medium detail

Sample land-use map, high detail

Residential area with evenly spaced structures and characteristic street patterns.

Commercial development indicated by large irregular structure with sections from the same period and large street front parking area. Also, note limited

shipping and receiving area hidden in back.

Land use categories used in Britain in the 1930s.

Computerized land-use classification system from New York in the 1960s.

Special purpose land-use classification systems may be applied. Classification of wetlands may be one option.

Sequential photos showing a landfill converting to a residential development.

Tones and textures are used to help determine land use categories. Separating various crops may require optical and digital equipment.

Pasture below may have irregular shapes, patterns and tones. Cropland may have a uniform tone and geometric boundaries.

Various samples of deciduous forest showing dark tones and uneven textures.

Land in transition is indicated by light tones, uneven texture and irregularly shaped parcels

Excavated Cinder Cone

Divided Highway Construction:Michigan

Bauxite mine, Arizona

Coal strip mine, Alabama

Phosphate mine, Florida

New Highway Construction andRailroad

New Construction: Wisconsin

New Construction: Florida

Quarrying operation in Virginia

Divided highways display linear forms and distinctive loops at interchanges.

Highway in Residential Area

Railroad and Highway Bridges: Ohio