Internet-based Land Valuation System Powered by a GIS of 1:10,000 Soil Maps

Abstract

An internet-based land valuation system is being developed to replace the scientifically obsolete Hungarian land valuation system, the so-called AK (“Gold Crown”) ratings. The new system is supported by a GIS and it is unique in its capability of providing an up-to-date index of soil quality and land value. The geographical information is provided by national map databases on genetic soil maps and soil attributes at the scale of 1:10.000, combined with cadastral maps, digital terrain model, topographic map, orthophotos of aerial photographs and agronomic field records. The automated algorithms are easy to update, can be made legally binding and can provide a transparent system for land taxation, calculation of subsidies, appropriation. Given that detailed (1:10,000 or finer) soil map coverage will be completed for all lands of Hungary (at date only 60% of the croplands have soil maps), this way a multifunctional system will be available that promotes an optimum use of land resources.