REPORT ANALYSIS - MAP LAYERS/LEGEND
GIS maps are a series of data layers arranged in a way to present geographic data in an easy to read and logical format. A layer of information typically represents only one type of information, for instance on the MMCD map land parcels are one layer of information. When multiple layers are represented we see a map. A GIS map can be used to customize the information seen. In this case we can have the land parcels layer along with lakes and roads layers to create a basic understandable map.
The left side of the screen is the map layer/legend window. Here it is possible to turn layers of information on and off on the map by checking and un-checking the box next to the layer name. For instance un-checking the box next to the "Roads and Railways" layer would turn off all roads and railroads on the map, they become invisible. The reverse is also true, checking the box next to "Roads and Railways" will turn on, or make visible, all the roads and railroads on the map.
Clicking on the headings for each information category will hide the layers within it. For instance clicking on the word "Administrative" will hide or show the Political Boundaries and PLSS layers in the legend window. This is for cleaning up the legend window.