Assessment of density pattern retention of generalized data for 1:100,000-scale United States topographic maps

Larry Stanislawski; Bethany Ann Walker; Barry J. Kronenfeld; Barbara P. Buttenfield; Ethan J. Shavers; Adam Camerer

Assessment of density pattern retention of generalized data for 1:100,000-scale United States topographic maps

By: Larry Stanislawski, Bethany Ann Walker, Barry J. Kronenfeld, Barbara P. Buttenfield, Ethan J. Shavers, and Adam Camerer

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Abstract

Cartographic generalization reduces the complexity of geographic data to produce legible, smaller-scale displays that retain essential information and logical geographic patterns. Generalization is a vital process in topographic map production. An important challenge in this process is managing and evaluating consistency across scale in the density and spatial distribution of map features such as buildings, roads, streams, water bodies, and elevation contours. Density patterns in these features reflect underlying physiographic conditions, which include factors such as bedrock geology, tectonics, climate, and landforms. Assessments of an acceptable level of change in feature density patterns are critical to ensuring the readability, usability, and accuracy of generalized maps and data. Preserving realistic density patterns across mapping scales also supports sustainable development goals in cartography, by helping to prioritize and communicate the relative reliability of geospatial data at specific scales.

Suggested Citation

Stanislawski, L., Walker, B.A., Kronenfeld, B.J., Buttenfield, B.P., Shavers, E.J., and Camerer, A., 2025, Assessment of density pattern retention of generalized data for 1:100,000-scale United States topographic maps, International Cartographic Association Workshop on Multiscale Cartography and Sustainability at 32nd International Cartographic Conference, Vancouver, Canada, August 17-22, 2025, 4 p.

Additional publication details
Publication type	Conference Paper
Publication Subtype	Conference Paper
Title	Assessment of density pattern retention of generalized data for 1:100,000-scale United States topographic maps
Year Published	2025
Language	English
Publisher	International Cartographic Association
Contributing office(s)	Center for Geospatial Information Science (CEGIS)
Description	4 p.
Conference Title	International Cartographic Association Workshop on Multiscale Cartography and Sustainability at 32nd International Cartographic Conference
Conference Location	Vancouver, Canada
Conference Date	August 17-22, 2025