
ANDERSON, WARREN H., MORRIS, LANCE G., and SPARKS, THOMAS N., Kentucky Geological Survey, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
The Kentucky Geological Survey is using a semi-automated data capture
technique to vectorize data from existing hard-copy geologic maps. A multi-step
procedure is being developed to collect accurate vector data. The vectorized
data will facilitate the use of geologic information in geographic information
systems (GIS). The primary objectives of this program are to collect accurate
vectorized geologic data at a scale of 1:24,000, create electronic 7.5-minute
geologic quadrangle maps, and compile electronic 1:100,000-scale maps from
the 1:24,000-scale maps.
Mylar preparation, scanning, registration, vectorization, attributing,
joining and compilation are the major steps used to convert from hardcopy
maps into digital format. The resulting digital geologic data can be used
in computer applications and GIS. Linking to the KGS's major databases
for minerals, oil, coal and water will provide powerful databases to use
with GIS analytical tools. In a GIS, vectorized geologic contacts make
possible manipulation of data to obtain area and volume measurements, answer
spatial queries, locate wells, and perform other geologic and mineral resource
manipulations, searches and modeling.