FARRIT

Topographic maps are among the most widely used of all maps.  Their most distinguishing features are the contour lines that show the shape and elevation of the land.  Topographic maps also show both natural and manmade features, including mountains, valleys, rivers, vegetation, roads, boundaries and major buildings. 

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) produces topographic maps for the entire

United States.  The best known maps are the 1:24,000-scale maps known as 7.5 minute quadrangle maps.  Each maps covers an area of 7.5 minutes of longitude.  These maps are useful for both business and recreational purposes. 

In addition to the 7.5 minute maps, USGS also produces complete topographic coverage of the

U.S.  at scales of 1:100,000 and 1:250,000.

Computer technology has changed the way maps are made and used.  Maps are now being digitized.  Digital Raster Graphics (DRG) are scanned images of the USGS topographic maps.  Like printed maps, DRGs can be purchased from the USGS; in addition, there are websites that make these maps available on the Internet.  Some of these sites are listed here:

Information on the National Mapping Program of the

U.S. Geological Survey.

Inside Idaho is a clearing house for digital geospatial data made available through the

University of

Idaho.  Choose "Interactive GIS," then "Image Viewer" to view and print topographic maps for

Idaho.

TopoZone features topographic maps for the entire

U.S. which can be searched by place names instead of quadrangle names.

TerraServer provides access to maps and aerial photographs of the

United States.  Search in two ways, by selecting a location or by entering a place name.

Public Lands Information Center provides virtual maps of

Idaho's Public Lands.

Boise

State

University's Albertsons Library has a collection of topographic maps for all the 50 states.

Boise Public Library has a collection of Idaho USGS topographic maps (7.5 minute quadrangles) and a selected collection of

Idaho topographic maps (1:100,000 scale) produced by the Idaho Department of Transportation.

The

Idaho

History

Center has USGS topographic maps for

Idaho (15 and 7.5 minute series.)

The Idaho State Library receives USGS 7.5 minute topographical maps as a depository item.  They do not have a complete collection