Natural Features

Natural features are physical elements of the landscape formed by geologic and ecological processes—rivers, lakes, mountains, valleys, dunes, reefs, forests, wetlands, and caves. They are mapped as vectors or rasters with attributes describing form, function, material, and dynamics. Unlike constructed features, natural features often shift over time; good datasets track versions and uncertainty. Classification schemes (e.g., Ramsar wetland types, UNESCO geoheritage) add semantics that support policy. For many communities, natural features hold cultural and spiritual significance, requiring respectful mapping practices and consent. Natural features provide ecosystem services—water supply, carbon storage, hazard mitigation—and form the foundation of conservation planning. Provide explicit methods, QA notes, and version history so others can reuse the layer responsibly. Provide explicit methods, QA notes, and version history so others can reuse the layer responsibly. Photo exemplars and 3D views help non-experts recognize mapped features in the field, building trust and stewardship. Photo exemplars and 3D views help non-experts recognize mapped features in the field, building trust and stewardship. Photo exemplars and 3D views help non-experts recognize mapped features in the field, building trust and stewardship. Photo exemplars and 3D views help non-experts recognize mapped features in the field, building trust and stewardship.