Multi Attribute Data - Coffs River Catchment - Landform and Condition Dataset

The multiple attribute mapping process provides a vector based inventory of the landscape in terms of slope, terrain, landuse, vegetation, presence of tree regrowth, tree and shrub canopy density, presence of understorey, soil erosion condition, and rockiness. Mass movement and soil conservation measures are mapped where they exist, as is a selected range of weed species. These characteristics of the land are part of the larger set of characteristics that can be mapped using the NSW Dept. of Land and Water Conservation's full set of attribute codes. This set of codes are termed the Standard Classification for Attributes of Land (SCALD). The value of the attribute mapping is that the data objectively characterises the land and can be used for a range of land uses and land management purposes. This system of mapping maximises the efficiency of GIS operation by describing a number of attributes into one polygon, avoiding problems caused by overlaying of different data sets. Mapping is carried out at 1:25000 scale using base maps from the NSW Land Information Centre medium scale topographic series. Outputs are most useful at the sub-catchment or regional scale but not at property level. The data are extremely valuable at the river basin scale for integrated catchment planning programmes The information can, however, be useful as a first level of information in property planning exercises.