Geomorphometry: Today and Tomorrow

Abstract

This paper summarizes the current state-of-the-art in geomorphometry and describes the innovations that are close at hand and will be required to push digital terrain modeling forward in the future. These innovations will draw on concepts and methods from computer science and the spatial sciences and require greater collaboration to produce “actionable” knowledge and outcomes. The key innovations include rediscovering and using what we already know, developing new digital terrain modeling methods, clarifying and strengthening the role of theory, developing high-fidelity DEMs, developing and embracing new visualization methods, adopting new computational approaches, and making better use of provenance, credibility, and application-content knowledge.