Geomorphological mapping

« Geomorphological mapping » is the cartographic representation of landforms. Depending on the type of legend, it can be focussed on:

• what processes created the landforms (« morphogenetic maps »). Here, landforms are classified according to the process that shaped them, e.g. glacial, periglacial, fluvial, or karstic landforms;
• current morphological dynamics (« morphodynamic maps »). Here, landforms are classified according to their current activity (i.e., whether they are active or relict) or based on the distinction between erosion and accumulation dynamics.

Since the 1980’s, several cartography projects have been carried out at the University of Lausanne:

• thematic cartography, such as geomorphosite mapping or rock glacier inventories [include recent examples?];
• development of a morphodynamic legend aiming to quantify the activity of processes involved in torrential dynamics (cf. Theler, 2010; Theler et al., 2009, 2010; [include recent examples?]);
• development of a morphogenetic legend aiming to provide a standardised symbology (see below).