Geomorphological Mapping for Land Suitability Evaluation

Abstract

Geomorphology affects the potential of land. The geomorphological condition of an area has implications for physical characteristics, including: 1) type; 2) material; and 3) processes formed upon it. Understanding land capability allows for the evaluation of land suitability. Classification of land suitability is carried out by combining the results of land capability identification with requirements for plant growth or existing land use. Evaluation of land suitability can be done using the survey method. This study aimed to assess the suitability of land in Sumbersuko Village in Wagir District, Malang Regency. Land suitability was evaluated by matching the characteristics of the land with the land suitability class. This study used primary data taken from the regional morphology survey. Secondary data included: 1) digital elevation model data; 2) geological maps; 3) maps of soil types; and 4) Sentinel-2A images. The data from the field survey were then compiled using a geographic information system into maps using 2D and 3D modeling. The results of GIS analysis showed that Sumbersuko Village has six landform units, namely M1V1, M1V2, H2V2, U2V2, P2V2, and M3V3. Analysis of land capability and suitability of the six land units in a row gave the following results: 1) forest (highly suitable/S1); 2) forest and industry (suitable/S2); 3) plantation/agrotourism (moderately suitable /S3); 4) agriculture (not suitable/N); 5) residential area (less suitable/S3) S4); and 6) forest (highly suitable/S1).
 Keywords: scientific, approach, methodological, techniques, geography