Topographic Map Symbols

Symbols provide the definition of features on a topographic map.

I recently wrote a short post about understanding the features and contours of a topographic map.  For the complete post go here.

While doing class preparation for my Navigation class at the local college I came across a fine site by MyTopo.com.  Though perhaps not as comprehensive as the formal US governement map index I found the diagrams to be especially useful.  The discriptions are quite helpful.  The following is a short sampling:

		Woodlands. An area of normally dry land containing tree cover or brush that is potential tree cover. The growth must be at least 6 feet tall and dense enough to afford cover for troops.
		Scrub. Area covered with low-growing or stunted perennial vegetation, such as cactus, mesquite or sagebrush, common to arid regions and usually not mixed with trees.
		Orchard. A planting of evenly spaced trees or tall bushes that bear fruit or nuts. Plantings of citrus and nut trees, commonly called groves, are included in this type.

Working with Topographic maps.

To get to MyTopo's information go here.