The Role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Soil Surveying and Classification

Abstract

Abstract The use of GIS is a technology that is not new, but it is constantly evolving, and that reliance on it in the agricultural field is increasing dramatically. By observing the vegetation cover and physical soil characteristics such as color, texture, water holding capacity and erosion, and soil chemical characteristics, especially evaluating the fertility of the soil for several years, it has become easy to employ this technology in soil surveys and land classification. Through geographic information systems, satellite images and remote sensing data, the studied lands expanded and it became easy to predict the characteristics of these lands in the future through simulating data with mathematical models. In addition, access to rugged and remote areas became easier through satellite images. Finally, this technology is considered as a shortening of time, effort and money to produce maps, graphs, or tables with flexibility, high accuracy, and abundant information that can be used at the present time to make important decisions or in the future.