A computer oriented approach to environmental geologic data base construction (with application to the Athens Quadrangle, Tennessee)

This study examines environmental geologic data for applicability to an automated system for the analysis of potential geologic hazards with respect to specific land uses. A computer oriented system to incode, store, manipulate, and display cell based environmental geologic data was developed. Information on combinations of variables is extracted from the data base and manipulated by the user with an interactive computer program (SELECT) to define areas with potential geologic hazards. The data are stored and manipulated as matrices which are part of a data base of environmental geologic information. The new matrices (maps) produced with SELECT are displayed as plotter drawn maps or viewed on a Tektronics graphics terminal.

The system was used to evaluate the Athens, Tennessee quadrangle with respect to potential environmental geologic hazards affecting specific land uses. Information on the geology, hydrology, and soils of the quadrangle was reviewed, and elements of these data (bedrock geology, slope, and flood prone areas) were selected for inclusion in the data base. Environmental geologic criteria for sanitary landfill, construction, and septic tank disposal system sites were established. Based on these criteria SELECT was used to produce maps of the quadrangle showing the potential environmental geologic hazards present relative to each specific use.