Piece of Eden GIS Blog

 This module was extremely helpful, as we dived deep into projection systems. Through the lab, we analyzed UTM, State Plane, Albers and determined when they are the best fit, as well as how to project them properly.  A handful of tools we utilized are listed below:  Projection Wizard Geodetic Parameter  Search For our final map, we choose a state in the USA, and determined which projection to use; UTM vs State Plan.  I choose the state Utah because I have always wanted to go to Zion! I decided not to use the State Plane because there are three different ones that subdivide the state. Since state plane’s do not work here, I opted for UTM over Albers because we are looking at a relatively smaller area not close to the poles. I tried a couple of different UTM NAD83 Zones and landed on UTM NAD83 Zone 12. In this zone, Utah completely lies within one UTM Zone.  

This module explored the use of typography in map-making. For this assignment, I had to label larger cities/islands, waterways, parks, landmarks, neighborhoods, and topographical features in San Francisco, California.  My thought process for labeling Map 1 below is as follows.  General cities and islands: I used basic large black font, for these main locations' features to stand out. I placed them centrally, in a spot they wouldn’t block other features. I used a blockier font (century gothic) for easier legibility. Water Features: I used italicized blue font to signify water. I used a lighter blue for the Pacific Ocean, as it’s not local information. I used the font commonly used for water features, Bodoni MT Italic, for distinction and legibility. Park Names: I used a green front placed above the area of the parks. I used a blockier font (century gothic) for easier legibility. Landmarks: I used a bright orange to stand out and placed it over the bridge. I used a blockier font...