A GIS-based geomorphological mapping of the Calore River alluvial plain in Benevento area (Campania, Italy)

In this work the physical landscape of an alluvial plain in terms of processes, forms and evolution is represented by reducing the use of symbols in favor of geometric entities properly mapped. These entities are processed by means of a GIS, which is able to handle large amounts of spatial data, as well as to offer solution to many of the problems occurring during the production of comprehensive geomorphological maps. The information of the spatial database, derived from field survey, cartographic analysis and interpretation of aerial photographs, are managed and represented in a multiscalar hierarchical structure. In this way, the change in scale naturally caused a change in detail of the provided information. Obviously the importance of interpretation increases with decreasing scale. This mapping approach can be the basis for correct choices in terms of environmental planning, also according to recent indications provided by European and national standards.