Difference between revisions of "Hazardous Areas Around Linear Infrastructure"

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= Introduction ==
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== Introduction ==
   
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Mountainous terrain can pose challenges for linear infrastructure such as railway lines and highways. Not only do such areas present operational challenges, they also face risks due to mass movements such as landslides, rock slides, and avalanches that can lead to physical damage, temporary closure, and even loss of life. Having information on potential locations for landslides and rock slides can be helpful in taking preventative action to reduce risks. Locations can be derived by examining the conditions that can make an area prone to such an event. Such conditions can include the landscape slope, soil type, rock type, precipitation levels, and land use.
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Introduction
  
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Mountainous terrain can pose challenges for linear infrastructure such as railway lines and highways. Not only do such areas present operational challenges, they also pose risks due to landslides, rockslides, and avalanches that can lead to physical damage, temporary closure, and even loss of life. Having information on potential locations for landslides and rockslides can be helpful in taking preventitive action to reduce risks. Locations can be derived by examining the conditions that can make an area prone to such an event. Such conditions can include the landscape slope, soil type, rock type, precipitation levels, and land use.
  
   
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This tutorial will focus on railway infrastructure. It will do an analysis of a railway line in Western Austria known as the Vorarlberg Bahn that runs from Bludenz to Bregenz, the capital of Voralberg Land, with a connection to Switzerland. The line is a continuation of the Arlberg Bahn that runs from Innsbruck to Bludenz. It is 68 kilometres long and runs through the Walgau and Rhine valleys. It is owned and operated by the Austrian Federal Railways.
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This tutorial will focus on railway infrastructure. It will do an analysis of a railway line in Western Austria known as the Vorarlberg Bahn that runs from Bludenz to Bregenz, the capital of Voralberg Land, with a connection to Switzerland. The line is a continuation of the Arlberg Bahn that runs from Innsbruck to Bludenz. It is 68 kilometres long and runs through the Walgau and Rhine valleys. It is owned and operated by the Austrian Federal Railways(ÖBB).
   
 
== Objective ==
  
== Objective ==
   
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The objective of this analysis is to find locations along a section of railway infrastructure that are hazardous in that they could be areas prone to landslides or rock slides.
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The objective of this analysis is to find locations along a section of railway infrastructure that are hazardous in that they could be areas prone to mass movements such as landslides or rock slides.
   
   
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== Methods ==
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==Data and Software==
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===Data Layers===
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Data for this analysis came from various open data sources. A project folder should be set up for the project (e.g. titled RailInfrastrutureHazards) and the following data downloaded and unzipped into this folder.
   
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===Data Used===
  
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Data Sources
  
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Data for this analysis came from various open data sources. A project folder should be set up for the project (e.g. titled RailInfrastruture) and the data downloaded and unzipped into this folder.
  
 
*A map of the Austrian rail network can be found on the following GIS data site:
  
*A map of the Austrian rail network can be found on the following GIS data site:
 
Austria railway network:
  
Austria railway network:
 
https://mapcruzin.com/free-austria-arcgis-maps-shapefiles.htm
  
https://mapcruzin.com/free-austria-arcgis-maps-shapefiles.htm
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*A political map of Vorarlberg Land used to clip Austria wide vector and raster files was obtained from Land Vorarlberg:
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*A political map of Vorarlberg Land used to clip vector and raster files from Land Vorarlberg:
 
http://data.vorarlberg.gv.at/ogd/basisdaten/politische_gemeindegrenze.shtm
  
http://data.vorarlberg.gv.at/ogd/basisdaten/politische_gemeindegrenze.shtm
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*An annual rainfall shapefile for Vorarlberg was obtained from Land Vorarlberg:
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*An annual rainfall shapefile for Vorarlberg from Land Vorarlberg:
 
http://data.vorarlberg.gv.at/ogd/geographieundplanung/jaehrliche_niederschlagss.shtm
  
http://data.vorarlberg.gv.at/ogd/geographieundplanung/jaehrliche_niederschlagss.shtm
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*A DEM raster file for Austria was obtained from the Government of Austria through Open Data Osterreich:
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*A DEM raster file for Austria from the Government of Austria through Open Data Osterreich:
 
https://www.data.gv.at/katalog/dataset/b5de6975-417b-4320-afdb-eb2a9e2a1dbf
  
https://www.data.gv.at/katalog/dataset/b5de6975-417b-4320-afdb-eb2a9e2a1dbf
 
Click on “zur Ressource” to obtain file.
  
Click on “zur Ressource” to obtain file.
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*A geology shapefile of Austria was obtained from the Geological Survey of Austria (GBA):
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*A geology shapefile of Austria from the Geological Survey of Austria (GBA):
 
https://www.geologie.ac.at/en/produkte-shop/geodaten-software/bersichtskarten/
  
https://www.geologie.ac.at/en/produkte-shop/geodaten-software/bersichtskarten/
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*A soil shapefile of Austria Austrian Research Centre for Forests (BFW):
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*A soil shapefile of Austria from the Austrian Research Centre for Forests (BFW):
 
https://bfw.ac.at/rz/bfwcms2.web?dok=8548
  
https://bfw.ac.at/rz/bfwcms2.web?dok=8548
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*A landcover/land use raster file of Europe was obtained from the Copernicus Land Monitoring Service:
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*A landcover/land use raster file of Europe from the Copernicus Land Monitoring Service:
 
CLC_2018 Map
  
CLC_2018 Map
 
https://land.copernicus.eu/pan-european/corine-land-cover
  
https://land.copernicus.eu/pan-european/corine-land-cover
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===Software Used===
  
===Software Used===
   
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The exercises demonstrated are completed using the Quantum GIS 3.8.1 Zanzibar software interface. These are open source software materials which are freely accessible and available online. For new users it is suggested to use the standalone installer.
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The analysis is completed using the Quantum GIS 3.8.1 Zanzibar software interface. This is open source software material that are freely accessible and available online. For new users it is suggested to use the standalone installer.
   
 
This is available by clicking this hyperlink. [http://www.qgis.org/en/site/forusers/download.html Click this!]
  
This is available by clicking this hyperlink. [http://www.qgis.org/en/site/forusers/download.html Click this!]
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==Methods==
   
 
===Starting Map Project===
  
===Starting Map Project===
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===File Projections===
  
===File Projections===
   
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The map projection used for this analysis was EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West.
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The map projection used for this analysis is EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West.
   
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The initial file projections were as follows:
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The initial file projections are as follows:
   
 
Vector Files:
  
Vector Files:
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'''Reprojection of Vector Files'''
  
'''Reprojection of Vector Files'''
   
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In order to prepare the vector files for use, they need have the correct projection: EPSG:31254 MGI/Austria GK West. The "Political" and "Annual rainfall" vectors have the correct projection, so the three remaining vector layers need to be re-projected: Austrian rail network (vector), Geology (Vector), and Soil(Vector).
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In order to prepare the vector files for use, they need to have the correct projection: EPSG:31254 MGI/Austria GK West. The "Political" and "Annual rainfall" vectors have the correct projection, so the three remaining vector layers need to be re-projected: Austrian rail network, Geology, and Soil.
   
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To re-project the three vector files, select “Vector” from the top menu, then “Data Management Tools” and “Reproject Layer”. On the “Reproject Layer” window, select the layer to be re-projected as the “Input Layer” and the “Target CRS” as EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West. The “Reprojected” box is used to setup the file for the re-projected layer. Press the “…” button, select “Save to File’, select the project folder and a file name for the re-projected file. The image below shows the “Reproject Layer” window for the vector files that need to be re-projected:
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To re-project the three vector files, select “Vector” from the top menu, then “Data Management Tools” and “Reproject Layer”.
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[[File:VectorReprojectTool.jpg|center|600px]]
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On the “Reproject Layer” window, select the layer to be re-projected as the “Input Layer” and the “Target CRS” as EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West. The “Reprojected” box is used to setup the file for the re-projected layer. Press the “…” button, select “Save to File’, select the project folder and a file name for the re-projected file. The image below shows the “Reproject Layer” window for the vector files that need to be re-projected:
   
 
Re-projection Window
  
Re-projection Window
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'''Clipping Vector Files to Area of Interest'''
  
'''Clipping Vector Files to Area of Interest'''
   
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The next step is to clip the vector files to the area of interest, Vorarlberg Land. The Annual Rainfall shapefile is already for Vorarlberg, so the “Railways”, “Geology” and “Soils” shapefiles need to be clipped. To clip these vector files, select “Vector” from the top menu, then “Geoprocessing Tools”, then “Clip”. For the “Input layer”, select the file to be clipped (Railway Reprojected, SoilsReprojected or GeologyReprojected), then select the area of interest, Vorarlberg Political Map, as the “Overlay layer”. Under “Clipped”, select the “…” button, move to the folder where the project files are stored, and enter a name for the new layer under “File name” and press “Save”. This must be done for the three vectors to be clipped.
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The next step is to clip the vector files to the area of interest, Vorarlberg Land. The Annual Rainfall shapefile is already for Vorarlberg, so the “Railways”, “Geology” and “Soils” shapefiles need to be clipped. To clip these vector files, select “Vector” from the top menu, then “Geoprocessing Tools”, then “Clip”.
   
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[[File:VectorClipTool.jpg|center|600px]]
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For the “Input layer”, select the file to be clipped (RailwayReprojected, SoilsReprojected or GeologyReprojected), then select the area of interest, Vorarlberg Political Map layer, as the “Overlay layer”. Under “Clipped”, select the “…” button, move to the folder where the project files are stored, and enter a name for the new layer under “File name”, seleck .shp for file type,and press “Save”. This must be done for the three vectors to be clipped.
   
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Clip Window
  
   
 
[[File:RailwaysClipped.JPG|500px]]
  
[[File:RailwaysClipped.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:RailwaysClippedPic.JPG|500px|Frameless|Caption]]
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Railway lines in Vorarlberg Land
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[[File:SoilsClipped.JPG|500px]]
  
[[File:SoilsClipped.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:SoilsClippedPic.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Soils in Vorarlberg Land
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[[File:GeologyClipped.JPG|500px]]
  
[[File:GeologyClipped.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:GeologyClippedPic.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Geology in Vorarlberg Land
   
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In order to find hazardous areas of concern around the rail lines, a buffer of 1000 metres was established on either side of the line. To do this, select "vector" from the top menu, then "Geoprocessing Tools" and then "Buffer".
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The Resulting Layers:
  
   
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[[File:RailwaysClippedPic.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:BufferRailwaysToolWindow.jpg|600px|center]]
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[[File:SoilsClippedPic.JPG|500px]]
  
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[[File:GeologyClippedPic.JPG|500px]]
  
   
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In the Buffer window, select the RailwaysVorarlberg file as the "Input Layer", set 1000 meters under "Distance", and check off the "Dissolved result" checkbox. Leave all other parameters as default. Under "Buffered", press the ... button and select 'Save to File...". Select an appropriate filename for the buffered rail file, select .shp for the file type, and save in the appropriate directory by
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Railways [[spaces|20]]
  
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Soils
  
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Geology
  
   
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[[File:RailwaysBufferWindow.JPG|500px]]
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The next step is to change the colour scheme of two of the vector layers to bring out the contrasting data within the layer. The AnnualRainfallVorarlberg and GeologyVorarlberg layers will need to have their colours adjusted. To do this, highlight and right click on the layer in the “Layer Box” of the main project page, select “Properties”, and then “Symbology”. For the AnnualRainfallVorarlberg layer, select “gradient plasma” under the Favorites Box. Select “Apply” and then “Okay”. For the GeologyVorarlberg layer, complete the same procedure then select “Gradient Fill” in the top box and select “Grey” under the “color ramp”. Select “Apply” and then “Okay”.
 
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[[File:RailwaysBufferLayer.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Railways lines in Vorarlberg with 1000 metre buffer on both sides.
   
   
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The next step is to change the colour scheme of two of the vector layers to bring out the contrasting data within the layer. The AnnualRainfallVorarlberg and GeologyVorarlberg layers will need to have their colours adjusted. To do this, highlight and right click on the layer in the “Layer Box” of the main project page, select “Properties”, and then “Symbology”. For the AnnualRainfallVorarlberg layer, select “gradient plasma” under the Favorites Box. Select “Apply” and then “Okay”. For the GeologyVorarlberg layer, complete the same procedure then select “Gradient Fill” in the top box and select “Grey” under the “color ramp”. Select “Apply” and then “Okay”.
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Symbology Windows
  
   
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[[File:SymbologyRainfall.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:RainfallLayerColor.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Rainfall with new symbology.
   
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[[File:SymbologyRainfall.JPG|500px]]
  
 
[[File:SymbologyGeology.JPG|500px]]
  
[[File:SymbologyGeology.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:GeologyLayerColor.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Geology with new symbology
   
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The Resulting Layers
  
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[[File:RainfallLayerColor.JPG|500px]]
  
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[[File:GeologyLayerColor.JPG|500px]]
  
   
 
'''Selection of Potentially Hazardous Areas'''
  
'''Selection of Potentially Hazardous Areas'''
   
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For each of the vector layers that define the characteristics of the Vorarlberg region, the attributes of interest that define hazardous areas must be selected. For “AnnualRainfallVorarlberg”, the rainfall is grouped in intervals between 1500 and 3000 mm , so the lowest three intervals were chosen: 1200-1500 mm, 1500-1800 mm and 1800-2100 mm. For GeologyVorarlberg layer, the rock types of interest were phylites, schists and sediments. For the SoilsVorarlberg layer, the soils of interest were clays (Lehm in German) and sand (Sand in German).
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For each of the vector layers that define the characteristics of the Vorarlberg region, the attributes of interest that define hazardous areas must be selected. For AnnualRainfallVorarlberg, the rainfall is grouped in intervals between 1500 and 3000 mm , so the lowest three intervals were chosen: 1200-1500 mm, 1500-1800 mm and 1800-2100 mm. For GeologyVorarlberg layer, the rock types of interest were phylites, schists and sediments. For the SoilsVorarlberg layer, the soils of interest were clays (Lehm in German) and sand (Sand in German).
 
 
 
To select by attributes, the layer must be highlighted and right clicked in the main layer box and “Open Attribute Table” selected. Along the top of the attribute table are the headings for each column with the data in the columns below. From here, the “Select features using expression” button [[File:SelectbyAttributesButton.JPG|25px]] opens the “Select by expression” box (see below). The following expressions are entered in the left had expression box:
  
To select by attributes, the layer must be highlighted and right clicked in the main layer box and “Open Attribute Table” selected. Along the top of the attribute table are the headings for each column with the data in the columns below. From here, the “Select features using expression” button [[File:SelectbyAttributesButton.JPG|25px]] opens the “Select by expression” box (see below). The following expressions are entered in the left had expression box:
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After entering the above equation in the “ Select by Expression” box, press “Select Features” at the bottom of the window and the selected features will be highlighted in the attribute table and map layer.
  
After entering the above equation in the “ Select by Expression” box, press “Select Features” at the bottom of the window and the selected features will be highlighted in the attribute table and map layer.
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Select By Attributes Windows
  
   
 
[[File:SelectByAttributesRainfall.JPG|520px]]
  
[[File:SelectByAttributesRainfall.JPG|520px]]
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[[File:AnnualRainfallSelect.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Areas in Voarlberg with annual rainfall of 1200-1500 mm, 1500-1800 mm and 1800-2100 mm (yellow).
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[[File:SelectByAttributesGeology.JPG|520px]]
  
[[File:SelectByAttributesGeology.JPG|520px]]
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[[File:GeologyVorarlbergSelect.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Areas in Vorarlberg with the following geological structures: phylite, schist or sediment(yellow).
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[[File:SelectByAttributesSoils.JPG|600px]]
  
[[File:SelectByAttributesSoils.JPG|600px]]
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[[File:SoilsVorarlbergSelect.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Areas in Vorarlberg with clay or sandy soil (yellow).
   
   
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The next step is to save the selected attributes for each layer as a separate layer. Highlight the layer in the layer window, right click on it, select “Export” and “Save selected features as”. In the “Save Vector Layer as” window, set the “Format” to ESRI Shapefile, use the … button to select the project directory and give the layer a file name, and check the “Save only selected features” box. The CRS should be set to EPSG:31254 MGI/Austria GK West.
   
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[[File:RainfallHazard.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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The resulting layers
  
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Rainfall
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[[File:GeologyHazard.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Geology
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[[File:SoilsHazard.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Soils
   
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[[File:AnnualRainfallSelect.JPG|500px]]
  
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[[File:GeologyVorarlbergSelect.JPG|500px]]
  
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[[File:SoilsVorarlbergSelect.JPG|500px]]
  
   
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These three layers define areas of rainfall, geology and soils in Vorarlberg Land that could be potentially hazardous for linear infrastructure.
   
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The next step is to save the selected attributes for each layer as a separate layer. Highlight the layer in the layer window, right click on it, select “export” and “Save selected features as”. In the “Save Vector Layer as” window, set the “Format” to ESRI Shapefile, use the … button to select the project directory and give the layer a file name, and check the “Save only selected features” box. The CRS should be set to EPSG:31254 MGI/Austria GK West.
 
   
   
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===Processing of the Raster Files===
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The resulting layers
  
   
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In order to use the raster files, they need to have the correct projection. Both the DEM and Land Use layers have to be reprojected to EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West . In order to do this for each layer,"Raster" must be selected from the top menu, "Projections" from the drop down menu, and then "Warp (Reproject)" selected.
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[[File:RainfallHazard.JPG|500px]]
  
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[[File:GeologyHazard.JPG|500px]]
  
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[[File:SoilsHazard.JPG|500px]]
  
   
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[[File:RasterReprojectTool.jpg|center|700px]]
   
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These three layers define areas of rainfall, geology and soils in Vorarlberg Land that could be potentially hazardous for linear infrastructure.
  
   
   
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On the "Warp (Reproject)" window, select the original vector file as the "Input Layer", select EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West as the "Target CRS" and define a new file for the output under "Reprojected". Leave all other parameters at the default settings. Pressing "Run" will start the reprojection process.
   
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[[File:DEMReprojectWindow.JPG|500px]]
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===Processing of the Raster Files===
  
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[[File:AustriaDEMPic.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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DEM
   
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In order to use the raster files, they need to have the correct projection. Both the DEM and Land Use layers have to be reprojected to EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West . In order to do this for each layer,"Raster" must be selected from the top menu, "Projections" from the drop down menu, and then "Warp (Reproject)" selected. On the "Warp (Reproject)" window, select the original vector file as the "Input Layer", select EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West as the "Target CRS" and define a new file for the output under "Reprojected". Leave all other parameters at the default settings. Pressing "Run" will start the reprojection process.
  
   
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[[File:AustriaDEMPic.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:LandUseReprojectWindow.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:LandUsePic.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:LandUsePic.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Land Use
   
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The raster layers must then be clipped to the extent of Vorarlberg Land. To accomplish this, "Raster" must be selected from the top menu and "Extraction" from the drop down menu.
   
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[[File:DEMReprojectWindow.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:RasterClipTool.jpg|center|600px]]
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[[File:LandUseReprojectWindow.JPG|500px]]
  
   
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The raster layers must then be clipped to the extent of Vorarlberg Land. To accomplish this, "Raster" must be selected from the top menu, and "Extraction" from the drop down menu. For the Reprojected DEM file, "Clip Raster by Mask Layer" should the be selected. The "Input layer" is the DEMReprojected raster layer, and the "Mask Layer" is the Vorarlberg Political Map layer. Under "Advanced Parameters", a new file is defined for the clipped DEM layer under "Clipped (mask)"in an appropriate file directory.
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For the Reprojected DEM file, "Clip Raster by Mask Layer" should the be selected. The "Input layer" is the DEMReprojected raster layer, and the "Mask Layer" is the Vorarlberg Political Map layer. Under "Advanced Parameters", a new file is defined for the clipped DEM layer under "Clipped (mask)"in an appropriate file directory.
   
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For the Land Use layer, "Raster" is selected from the top menu, then "Extraction" from the drop down menu, then "Clip Raster by Extent". On the Clip Raster by Extent window, the LandUseReprojected raster file is selected for "Input Layer" and the Vorarlbeg Political Map layer as the clipping extent. This is done by pressing the small...button at the end of the "Clipping extent (xmin,xmax,ymin, ymax) option, then selecting "Use Layer Extent" and then selecting VorarlbergPoliticalMap under "Use extent from". Under "Advanced Parameters" name a new file for the clipped land Use raster in an appropriate file directory.
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For the Land Use layer, "Raster" is selected from the top menu, then "Extraction" from the drop down menu, then "Clip Raster by Extent". On the Clip Raster by Extent window, the LandUseReprojected raster file is selected for "Input Layer" and the Vorarlbeg Political Map layer as the clipping extent. This is done by pressing the small...button at the end of the "Clipping extent (xmin,xmax,ymin, ymax) option, then selecting "Use Layer Extent" and then selecting VorarlbergPoliticalMap under "Use extent from". Under "Advanced Parameters" name a new file for the clipped Land Use raster in an appropriate file directory.
   
 
[[File:DEMClipRasterWindow.JPG|500px]]
  
[[File:DEMClipRasterWindow.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:DEMVorarlbergPic.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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DEM layer clipped to Vorarlberg area.
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[[File:LandUseClipWindow.JPG|500px]]
  
[[File:LandUseClipWindow.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:LandUseVoralbergPic.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Land use layer clipped to the extent of Vorarlberg area.
   
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To identify the land use/cover classes in the land use layer, the legend will have to be added to the layer. The legend can be found in the "Legend"directory of the unzipped land use data. To add the legend, select the LandUseVorarlberg layer in the "Layers" window of the main page, right click on it, select "Properties", then select "Symbology",
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These are the resulting layers:
  
   
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[[File:DEMVorarlbergPic.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:AddLegend.jpg|center|600px]]
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[[File:LandUseVoralbergPic.JPG|500px]]
  
   
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In order to find areas with hazardous slopes, the DEM layer will have to be converted into a slope layer. To do this, "Raster" is selected from the top menu, then "Analysis" from the drop down menu, then "Slope". The DEM Vorarlberg layer is selected as the "Input layer" and under "Advance Parameters" and "Slope" specify a filename for the new slope layer in the appropriate project directory. Leave all other parameters at their default settings.
  
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Look for the small button to the right of the "Delete All" button. Press the button, select "Load colour map from file", and add the CLC2018+CLC2018_V2018_20_QGIS text file from the "Legend" directory of the unzipped land use data. This will add the legend information under the land use layer in the main "Layer"window.
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In order to find areas with hazardous slopes, the DEM layer will have to be converted into a slope layer. To do this, "Raster" is selected from the top menu, then "Analysis" from the drop down menu, then "Slope".
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[[File:RasterSlopeTool.jpg|center|700px]]
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The DEM Vorarlberg layer is selected as the "Input layer" and under "Advance Parameters" and "Slope" specify a filename for the new slope layer in the appropriate project directory. Leave all other parameters at their default settings.
 
 
   
 
[[File:SlopeVorarlberg.JPG|500px]]
  
[[File:SlopeVorarlberg.JPG|500px]]
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[[File:SlopeVorarlbergPic.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
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Slope layer for Vorarlberg area.
   
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The next step is to identify those areas of slope and land use/cover that could be potentially hazardous. For the slope, those above 25 degrees are considered to be potentially hazardous. For land use/cover, potentially hazardous areas are bare rock (332) or sparsely vegetated land (333). In order to select these area from the relevant raster layer, the raster calculator will be used. The Raster Calculator can be found under "Raster" on the main menu at the top.
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Here is the resulting slope layer;
  
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[[File:SlopeVorarlbergPic.JPG|500px]]
  
   
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[[File:RasterCalculatorTool.jpg|center|700px]]
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The next step is to identify those areas of slope and land use that could be potentially hazardous. For the slope, those above 25 degrees are considered to be potentially hazardous. For land use, potentially hazardous areas were bare rock (332) or sparsely vegetated (333). In order to select these area from the relevant raster layer, the raster calculator will be used. The Raster Calculator can be found under "Raster" on the main menu at the top.
  
   
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On the raster Calculator window for slope layer, Under "Raster Bands" select the Slope Vorarlberg layer. Under "Output Layer", select a name foe the new layer file for the selected areas in the appropriate directory. In the "Raster Calculator Expression" window, double click on the Slope Vorarlberg layer in the "Raster Bands" box and the operator buttons to enter the following equation:
 +
On the raster Calculator window for the slope layer, under "Raster Bands" select the SlopeVorarlberg layer. Under "Output Layer", select a name for the new layer file for the selected areas in the appropriate directory. In the "Raster Calculator Expression" window, double click on the SlopeVorarlberg layer in the "Raster Bands" box and the operator buttons to enter the following equation:
   
 
"SlopeVorarlberg@1" > 25
  
"SlopeVorarlberg@1" > 25
Line 201: Line 233:
 
Then press okay to start the selection operation.
  
Then press okay to start the selection operation.
   
−
For the Land Use layer, under "Raster Bands" in the "Raster Calculator" window select the Land Usee Vorarlberg layer. Under "Output Layer", select a name foe the new layer file for the selected areas in the appropriate directory. In the "Raster Calculator Expression" window, use double clicks on the Land Use Vorarlberg layer in the "Raster Bands" box and the operator buttons to enter the following equation:
 +
For the Land Use layer, under "Raster Bands" in the "Raster Calculator" window, select the LandUseVorarlberg layer. Under "Output Layer", select a name for the new layer file for the selected areas in the appropriate directory. In the "Raster Calculator Expression" window, use double clicks on the LandUseVorarlberg layer in the "Raster Bands" box and the operator buttons to enter the following equation:
   
 
"LandUseVorarlberg@1" = 332 OR "LandUseVorarlberg@1" = 333
  
"LandUseVorarlberg@1" = 332 OR "LandUseVorarlberg@1" = 333
Line 209: Line 241:
   
 
[[File:SlopeRasterCalculator.JPG|500px]]
  
[[File:SlopeRasterCalculator.JPG|500px]]
  +
[[File:SlopeGT25Layer.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
  +
Layer with slope greater than 25 degrees
  +
 
[[File:RasterCalculatorLandUseWindow.JPG|500px]]
  
[[File:RasterCalculatorLandUseWindow.JPG|500px]]
  +
[[File:SlopeRasterCalResult.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
  +
Layer with bare rock or sparsely vegetated land use/cover.
   
  +
In both layers, the white areas are the ones that are potentially hazardous.
   
  +
In order to further utilize the slope and land use raster layers with the selected areas, they must be converted into vector layers. To do this, the procedure is the same for both layers. Select "Raster" on the main menu at the top, then "Conversion" on the drop down menu, then "Polygonize (Raster to Vector)'. For the SlopeVorarlbergGT25 layer, select that file as the "Input layer", then, under "Vectorized", input a file name for the new VorarlbergSlopeGT25 layer in the appropriate project directory. Press Run to start the conversion process. The process is the same for the Land Use layer.
−
Here are the resulting layers. In both layers, the white areas are the ones that are potentially hazardous.
  
   
   
−
[[File:SlopeGT25Layer.JPG|500px]]
 +
[[File:VorarlbergSlopeGT25VectorWindow.JPG|500px]]
−
[[File:SlopeRasterCalResult.JPG|500px]]
 +
[[File:SlopeGT25VectorLayer.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
  +
Vector layer for slope greater than 25 degrees.
   
−
In order to further utilize the slope and land use raster layers, they must be converted into vector layers. To do this, the procedure is the same for both layers. Select "Raster" on the main menu at the top, then "Conversion" on the drop down menu, the "Polygonize (Raster to Vector)'. For the SlopeVorarlbergGT25 layer, select that file as the "Input layer". Then under "Vectorized", input a file name for the new Vorarlberg slopeGT25 layer in the appropriate project directory. Press Run to start the conversion process. the process is the same for the Land Use layer.
 
−  
−  
−
[[File:VorarlbergSlopeGT25VectorWindow.JPG|500px]]
  
 
[[File:LandUseVectorizeWindow.JPG|500px]]
  
[[File:LandUseVectorizeWindow.JPG|500px]]
  +
[[File:LandUse332333VectorLayer.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
  +
Vector layer for bare rock and sparsely vegetated land use/cover.
   
−
Here are the resulting layers:
  
−  
−  
−
[[File:SlopeGT25VectorLayer.JPG|500px]]
  
−
[[File:LandUse332333VectorLayer.JPG|500px]]
  
   
  +
Unfortunately, the vectored layer output for both layers have an invalid geometry. To correct this problem, and make the layers usable for the rest of the analysis, a new vector layer must be created for each original layer with a buffer of zero. The procedure to do this for both layers is the same. Select "Vector" from the main menu at the top, then "Geoprocessing tools" and then "Buffer". For the slope vector, select the SlopeVoralbergGT25FinalVector layer as the "Input layer" in the Buffer window, set the "Distance" to zero, and select a file name and directory for the new SlopeGT25VectorBuffered layer under "Buffered" and place in the appropriate directory. Leave all the other settings at their default. Press Run to start the buffering process. The procedure is the same for the land use layer using the LandUse332333 vector file.
−  
−
Unfortunately, the vectored layer output for both layers have an invalid geometry. To correct this problem, and make the layers usable for the rest of the analysis, a new vector layer must be created for each original layer with a buffer of zero. The procedure to do this for both layers is the same. Select ""Vector" from the main menu at the top, then "Geoprocessing tools", and then "Buffer". For the slope vector, select the SlopeVoralbergGT25FinalVector layer as the "Input layer" in the Buffer window, set the "Distance" to zero, and select a file name and directory for the new Slope GT25 Vector Buffered layer under "Buffered" and place in the appropriate directory. Leave all the other settings at their default. Press one to start the buffering process. The procedure is the same for the land use layer using the LandUsee 332333 vector file.
  
   
   
Line 252: Line 283:
 
===Intersecting the Layers===
  
===Intersecting the Layers===
   
−
The final stage of this analysis is to intersect the five layers that have been used to define potentially hazardous areas (based on Annual Rainfall, Geology, Soils, Land Use and Slope)to determine the final area where the characteristics combine to make the area a combined hazardous area. To do this a series of intersection operations are performed:
 +
The final stage of this analysis is to intersect the five layers that have been used to define potentially hazardous areas (based on Annual Rainfall, Geology, Soils, Land Use and Slope)to determine the final area where the characteristics combine to make the area a combined hazardous area. To do this, a series of intersection operations are performed:
   
−
Annual Rainfall intersected with Geology to give AnnualRainfallGeologyIntersection
 +
Annual Rainfall intersects with Geology to give AnnualRainfallGeologyIntersection
−
AnnualRainfallGeology intersected with Soils to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsIntersection
 +
AnnualRainfallGeology intersects with Soils to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsIntersection
−
AnnualRainfallGeologySoils intersected with Land Use to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseIntersection
 +
AnnualRainfallGeologySoils intersects with Land Use to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseIntersection
−
AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUse intersected with Slope to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeIntersection
 +
AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUse intersects with Slope to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeIntersection
   
−
To give the final combined hazardous areas with the 1000 metre railway buffer:
 +
To give the final combined hazardous areas within the 1000 metre railway buffer:
   
 
AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlope intersects with Rail Buffer to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeRailBufferIntersection
  
AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlope intersects with Rail Buffer to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeRailBufferIntersection
   
−
To create the intersection layers, select "Vector" from the top menu, then "Geoprocessing Tools", then "Intersection".
+
To create the intersection layers, select "Vector" from the top menu, then "Geoprocessing Tools" and then "Intersection".
  +
  +
[[File:VectorIntersectionTool.jpg|centre|700px]]
  +
  +
  +
  +
In the intersection window, under "Input Layer" select the first of the two layers that are to be intersected. In the "Overlay layer", select the second layer that is to be intersected. Under "Advanced Parameters", a new filename is entered for the new intersection file that is saved in the appropriate project directory. Leave all other options at their default settings. Pressing "Run" starts the intersection process. The Intersection Window for each of the five intersections are shown below with their output layers.
  +
   
−
[[File:IntersectionToolMenu.jpg|centre|600px]]
  
   
  +
[[File:AnnualRainfallGeologyIntersection.JPG|450px]]
  +
[[File:RainfallGeologyIntersectionImage.JPG|450px|frameless|caption]]
  +
Rainfall and Geology Intersection Layer
   
  +
[[File:AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsIntersectionImage.JPG|450px]]
  +
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsIntersectionLayerImage.JPG|450px|frameless|Caption]]
  +
Rainfall-Geology and Soils Intersection Layer
   
  +
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseIntersectionWindow.JPG|450px]]
−
In the intersection window, under "Input Layer" select the first of the two layers that are to be intersected. In the"Overlay layer", select the second layer that is to be intersected. Under "Advanced Parameters, a new filename is entered for the new intersection file that is saved in the appropriate project directory. Leave all other options at their default settings. Pressing "Run" starts the intersection process. The Intersection Window for each of the five intersections are shown below with their output layers.
 
  +
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseIntersectionLayer.JPG|450px|frameless|caption]]
  +
Rainfall-Geology-Soils and Land Use Intersection Layer
   
  +
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeIntersection.JPG|450px]]
  +
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeIntersectionLayer.JPG|450px|frameles|caption]]
  +
Rainfall-Geology-Soils-Landuse and Slope Intersection Layer
   
  +
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeRailBufferIntersectionWindow.JPG|450px]]
  +
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeRailBufferIntersectionLayer.JPG|450px|frameless|caption]]
  +
Rainfall-Geology-Soils-Landuse-Slope and Rail Buffer Intersection Layer
   
  +
===Final Maps===
   
  +
Here are the final maps showing the hazardous areas of concern for mass movements along railway lines in Vorarlberg region. These are areas where mean annual rainfall, soils, geology,land use and slope with characteristics that are prone to mass movements overlap.
−
[[File:AnnualRainfallGeologyIntersection.JPG|500px]]
  
−
[[File:AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsIntersectionImage.JPG|500px]]
  
−
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseIntersectionWindow.JPG|500px]]
  
   
−
[[File:RainfallGeologyIntersectionImage.JPG|500px|thumb|Rainfall and Geology Intersection Layer]]
 +
[[File:HazardousAreasMap.JPG|500px|frameless|Caption]]
  +
Map of Vorarlberg showing hazardous areas along rail line
−
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsIntersectionLayerImage.JPG|500px|thumb|Rainfall-Geology and Soils Intersection Layer]]
  
−
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseIntersectionLayer.JPG|500px|thumb|Rainfall-Geology-Soils and Land Use Intersection Layer]]
  
   
  +
[[File:HazardousAreasZoom.JPG|500px|frameless|caption]]
  +
Zoomed in map of hazardous areas.
   
   
  +
==References==
−
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeIntersection.JPG|500px]]
  
  +
Laimer. H. 2017. Anthropogenically induced landslides – A challenge for railway infrastructure in mountainous regions. Engineering Geology. 222:92-101.
−
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeRailBufferIntersectionWindow.JPG|500px]]
  
   
  +
Peruccacci, S., M. Brunetti, S. Gariano, M. Melillo, M. Rossi, and F. Guzzetti (2017). Rainfall thresholds for possible landslide occurrence in Italy. Geomorphology 290: 39-57.
−
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeIntersectionLayer.JPG|500px]]
  
−
[[File:RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeRailBufferIntersectionLayer.JPG|500px]]
  
   
  +
Rachoy C. and M. Scheikl (2006). Anthropogenic caused mass movements and their impact on railway lines in Austria. Pages 639 – 643 in H. Mauri and M. Mikos, editors. Disaster mitigation of debris flow, slope failures and landslides. Universal Academy Press, Tokyo, Japan.
−
[[File:HazardousAreasMap.JPG|500px]]
  
−
[[File:HazardousAreasZoom.JPG|500px]]
  

Latest revision as of 00:02, 22 December 2019

Introduction

Mountainous terrain can pose challenges for linear infrastructure such as railway lines and highways. Not only do such areas present operational challenges, they also face risks due to mass movements such as landslides, rock slides, and avalanches that can lead to physical damage, temporary closure, and even loss of life. Having information on potential locations for landslides and rock slides can be helpful in taking preventative action to reduce risks. Locations can be derived by examining the conditions that can make an area prone to such an event. Such conditions can include the landscape slope, soil type, rock type, precipitation levels, and land use.

This tutorial will focus on railway infrastructure. It will do an analysis of a railway line in Western Austria known as the Vorarlberg Bahn that runs from Bludenz to Bregenz, the capital of Voralberg Land, with a connection to Switzerland. The line is a continuation of the Arlberg Bahn that runs from Innsbruck to Bludenz. It is 68 kilometres long and runs through the Walgau and Rhine valleys. It is owned and operated by the Austrian Federal Railways(ÖBB).

Objective

The objective of this analysis is to find locations along a section of railway infrastructure that are hazardous in that they could be areas prone to mass movements such as landslides or rock slides.


Data and Software

Data Layers

Data for this analysis came from various open data sources. A project folder should be set up for the project (e.g. titled RailInfrastrutureHazards) and the following data downloaded and unzipped into this folder.

  • A map of the Austrian rail network can be found on the following GIS data site:

Austria railway network: https://mapcruzin.com/free-austria-arcgis-maps-shapefiles.htm

  • A political map of Vorarlberg Land used to clip vector and raster files from Land Vorarlberg:

http://data.vorarlberg.gv.at/ogd/basisdaten/politische_gemeindegrenze.shtm

  • An annual rainfall shapefile for Vorarlberg from Land Vorarlberg:

http://data.vorarlberg.gv.at/ogd/geographieundplanung/jaehrliche_niederschlagss.shtm

  • A DEM raster file for Austria from the Government of Austria through Open Data Osterreich:

https://www.data.gv.at/katalog/dataset/b5de6975-417b-4320-afdb-eb2a9e2a1dbf Click on “zur Ressource” to obtain file.

  • A geology shapefile of Austria from the Geological Survey of Austria (GBA):

https://www.geologie.ac.at/en/produkte-shop/geodaten-software/bersichtskarten/

  • A soil shapefile of Austria from the Austrian Research Centre for Forests (BFW):

https://bfw.ac.at/rz/bfwcms2.web?dok=8548

  • A landcover/land use raster file of Europe from the Copernicus Land Monitoring Service:

CLC_2018 Map https://land.copernicus.eu/pan-european/corine-land-cover Please note that you have to register to access the data, but registration is free.

Software Used

The analysis is completed using the Quantum GIS 3.8.1 Zanzibar software interface. This is open source software material that are freely accessible and available online. For new users it is suggested to use the standalone installer.

This is available by clicking this hyperlink. Click this!

Methods

Starting Map Project

The first step is to open QGIS and load all of the shapefiles and raster files into a new project. Vector files are added by selecting “Layer” on the top menu, then add “Add Layer”, and then “Add Vector Layer”. For the Raster Files, the procedure is similar, but “Add Raster Layer” is selected.

File Projections

The map projection used for this analysis is EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West.

The initial file projections are as follows:

Vector Files:

  • Austrian rail network shapefile: EPSG:4326 -WGS 84
  • Political shapefile of Vorarlberg: EPSG:31254 MGI/Austria GK West
  • Annual rainfall shapefile: 31254 MGI/Austria GK West
  • Geology shapefile: 31287 – MGI Austria Lambert
  • Soil shapefile: EPSG:3035 – ETR89


Raster Files:

  • DEM Raster file:USER Generated CRS
  • Land cover/land use raster file: EPSG:3035 -ETRS89/LAEA Europe

Processing of the Vector Files

Reprojection of Vector Files

In order to prepare the vector files for use, they need to have the correct projection: EPSG:31254 MGI/Austria GK West. The "Political" and "Annual rainfall" vectors have the correct projection, so the three remaining vector layers need to be re-projected: Austrian rail network, Geology, and Soil.

To re-project the three vector files, select “Vector” from the top menu, then “Data Management Tools” and “Reproject Layer”.


VectorReprojectTool.jpg


On the “Reproject Layer” window, select the layer to be re-projected as the “Input Layer” and the “Target CRS” as EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West. The “Reprojected” box is used to setup the file for the re-projected layer. Press the “…” button, select “Save to File’, select the project folder and a file name for the re-projected file. The image below shows the “Reproject Layer” window for the vector files that need to be re-projected:

Re-projection Window

ReprojectRailways.JPG SoilsReprojected.JPG GeologyReprojected.JPG


Clipping Vector Files to Area of Interest

The next step is to clip the vector files to the area of interest, Vorarlberg Land. The Annual Rainfall shapefile is already for Vorarlberg, so the “Railways”, “Geology” and “Soils” shapefiles need to be clipped. To clip these vector files, select “Vector” from the top menu, then “Geoprocessing Tools”, then “Clip”.

VectorClipTool.jpg

For the “Input layer”, select the file to be clipped (RailwayReprojected, SoilsReprojected or GeologyReprojected), then select the area of interest, Vorarlberg Political Map layer, as the “Overlay layer”. Under “Clipped”, select the “…” button, move to the folder where the project files are stored, and enter a name for the new layer under “File name”, seleck .shp for file type,and press “Save”. This must be done for the three vectors to be clipped.


RailwaysClipped.JPG Caption Railway lines in Vorarlberg Land

SoilsClipped.JPG caption Soils in Vorarlberg Land

GeologyClipped.JPG caption Geology in Vorarlberg Land

In order to find hazardous areas of concern around the rail lines, a buffer of 1000 metres was established on either side of the line. To do this, select "vector" from the top menu, then "Geoprocessing Tools" and then "Buffer".

BufferRailwaysToolWindow.jpg

In the Buffer window, select the RailwaysVorarlberg file as the "Input Layer", set 1000 meters under "Distance", and check off the "Dissolved result" checkbox. Leave all other parameters as default. Under "Buffered", press the ... button and select 'Save to File...". Select an appropriate filename for the buffered rail file, select .shp for the file type, and save in the appropriate directory by

RailwaysBufferWindow.JPG caption Railways lines in Vorarlberg with 1000 metre buffer on both sides.


The next step is to change the colour scheme of two of the vector layers to bring out the contrasting data within the layer. The AnnualRainfallVorarlberg and GeologyVorarlberg layers will need to have their colours adjusted. To do this, highlight and right click on the layer in the “Layer Box” of the main project page, select “Properties”, and then “Symbology”. For the AnnualRainfallVorarlberg layer, select “gradient plasma” under the Favorites Box. Select “Apply” and then “Okay”. For the GeologyVorarlberg layer, complete the same procedure then select “Gradient Fill” in the top box and select “Grey” under the “color ramp”. Select “Apply” and then “Okay”.

SymbologyRainfall.JPG caption Rainfall with new symbology.

SymbologyGeology.JPG caption Geology with new symbology


Selection of Potentially Hazardous Areas

For each of the vector layers that define the characteristics of the Vorarlberg region, the attributes of interest that define hazardous areas must be selected. For AnnualRainfallVorarlberg, the rainfall is grouped in intervals between 1500 and 3000 mm , so the lowest three intervals were chosen: 1200-1500 mm, 1500-1800 mm and 1800-2100 mm. For GeologyVorarlberg layer, the rock types of interest were phylites, schists and sediments. For the SoilsVorarlberg layer, the soils of interest were clays (Lehm in German) and sand (Sand in German).

To select by attributes, the layer must be highlighted and right clicked in the main layer box and “Open Attribute Table” selected. Along the top of the attribute table are the headings for each column with the data in the columns below. From here, the “Select features using expression” button SelectbyAttributesButton.JPG opens the “Select by expression” box (see below). The following expressions are entered in the left had expression box:

  • AnnualRainfallVoralberg: niederschl LIKE ‘1200 – 1500 mm’ OR niederschl LIKE ‘1500 – 1800 mm’ OR niederschl LIKE ‘1800 – 2100 mm’
  • GeologyVorarlberg: LEGTEXT_EN LIKE ‘%phylite%’ OR LEGTEXT_EN LIKE ‘%schist%’ OR LEGTEXT_EN LIKE ‘%sediment%’
  • SoilsVorarlberg: l_bodenart LIKE ‘%Lehm%’ OR l_bodenart LIKE ‘%Sand%’

After entering the above equation in the “ Select by Expression” box, press “Select Features” at the bottom of the window and the selected features will be highlighted in the attribute table and map layer.

SelectByAttributesRainfall.JPG caption Areas in Voarlberg with annual rainfall of 1200-1500 mm, 1500-1800 mm and 1800-2100 mm (yellow).

SelectByAttributesGeology.JPG caption Areas in Vorarlberg with the following geological structures: phylite, schist or sediment(yellow).

SelectByAttributesSoils.JPG caption Areas in Vorarlberg with clay or sandy soil (yellow).


The next step is to save the selected attributes for each layer as a separate layer. Highlight the layer in the layer window, right click on it, select “Export” and “Save selected features as”. In the “Save Vector Layer as” window, set the “Format” to ESRI Shapefile, use the … button to select the project directory and give the layer a file name, and check the “Save only selected features” box. The CRS should be set to EPSG:31254 MGI/Austria GK West.

caption Rainfall caption Geology caption Soils


These three layers define areas of rainfall, geology and soils in Vorarlberg Land that could be potentially hazardous for linear infrastructure.


Processing of the Raster Files

In order to use the raster files, they need to have the correct projection. Both the DEM and Land Use layers have to be reprojected to EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West . In order to do this for each layer,"Raster" must be selected from the top menu, "Projections" from the drop down menu, and then "Warp (Reproject)" selected.

RasterReprojectTool.jpg


On the "Warp (Reproject)" window, select the original vector file as the "Input Layer", select EPSG:31254-MGI/Austria GK West as the "Target CRS" and define a new file for the output under "Reprojected". Leave all other parameters at the default settings. Pressing "Run" will start the reprojection process.

DEMReprojectWindow.JPG caption DEM


LandUseReprojectWindow.JPG caption Land Use

The raster layers must then be clipped to the extent of Vorarlberg Land. To accomplish this, "Raster" must be selected from the top menu and "Extraction" from the drop down menu.

RasterClipTool.jpg

For the Reprojected DEM file, "Clip Raster by Mask Layer" should the be selected. The "Input layer" is the DEMReprojected raster layer, and the "Mask Layer" is the Vorarlberg Political Map layer. Under "Advanced Parameters", a new file is defined for the clipped DEM layer under "Clipped (mask)"in an appropriate file directory.

For the Land Use layer, "Raster" is selected from the top menu, then "Extraction" from the drop down menu, then "Clip Raster by Extent". On the Clip Raster by Extent window, the LandUseReprojected raster file is selected for "Input Layer" and the Vorarlbeg Political Map layer as the clipping extent. This is done by pressing the small...button at the end of the "Clipping extent (xmin,xmax,ymin, ymax) option, then selecting "Use Layer Extent" and then selecting VorarlbergPoliticalMap under "Use extent from". Under "Advanced Parameters" name a new file for the clipped Land Use raster in an appropriate file directory.

DEMClipRasterWindow.JPG caption DEM layer clipped to Vorarlberg area.

LandUseClipWindow.JPG caption Land use layer clipped to the extent of Vorarlberg area.

To identify the land use/cover classes in the land use layer, the legend will have to be added to the layer. The legend can be found in the "Legend"directory of the unzipped land use data. To add the legend, select the LandUseVorarlberg layer in the "Layers" window of the main page, right click on it, select "Properties", then select "Symbology",

AddLegend.jpg


Look for the small button to the right of the "Delete All" button. Press the button, select "Load colour map from file", and add the CLC2018+CLC2018_V2018_20_QGIS text file from the "Legend" directory of the unzipped land use data. This will add the legend information under the land use layer in the main "Layer"window.


In order to find areas with hazardous slopes, the DEM layer will have to be converted into a slope layer. To do this, "Raster" is selected from the top menu, then "Analysis" from the drop down menu, then "Slope".

RasterSlopeTool.jpg

The DEM Vorarlberg layer is selected as the "Input layer" and under "Advance Parameters" and "Slope" specify a filename for the new slope layer in the appropriate project directory. Leave all other parameters at their default settings.


SlopeVorarlberg.JPG caption Slope layer for Vorarlberg area.

The next step is to identify those areas of slope and land use/cover that could be potentially hazardous. For the slope, those above 25 degrees are considered to be potentially hazardous. For land use/cover, potentially hazardous areas are bare rock (332) or sparsely vegetated land (333). In order to select these area from the relevant raster layer, the raster calculator will be used. The Raster Calculator can be found under "Raster" on the main menu at the top.

RasterCalculatorTool.jpg

On the raster Calculator window for the slope layer, under "Raster Bands" select the SlopeVorarlberg layer. Under "Output Layer", select a name for the new layer file for the selected areas in the appropriate directory. In the "Raster Calculator Expression" window, double click on the SlopeVorarlberg layer in the "Raster Bands" box and the operator buttons to enter the following equation:

"SlopeVorarlberg@1" > 25

Then press okay to start the selection operation.

For the Land Use layer, under "Raster Bands" in the "Raster Calculator" window, select the LandUseVorarlberg layer. Under "Output Layer", select a name for the new layer file for the selected areas in the appropriate directory. In the "Raster Calculator Expression" window, use double clicks on the LandUseVorarlberg layer in the "Raster Bands" box and the operator buttons to enter the following equation:

"LandUseVorarlberg@1" = 332 OR "LandUseVorarlberg@1" = 333

Then press okay to start the selection operation.


SlopeRasterCalculator.JPG caption Layer with slope greater than 25 degrees

RasterCalculatorLandUseWindow.JPG caption Layer with bare rock or sparsely vegetated land use/cover.

In both layers, the white areas are the ones that are potentially hazardous.

In order to further utilize the slope and land use raster layers with the selected areas, they must be converted into vector layers. To do this, the procedure is the same for both layers. Select "Raster" on the main menu at the top, then "Conversion" on the drop down menu, then "Polygonize (Raster to Vector)'. For the SlopeVorarlbergGT25 layer, select that file as the "Input layer", then, under "Vectorized", input a file name for the new VorarlbergSlopeGT25 layer in the appropriate project directory. Press Run to start the conversion process. The process is the same for the Land Use layer.


VorarlbergSlopeGT25VectorWindow.JPG caption Vector layer for slope greater than 25 degrees.

LandUseVectorizeWindow.JPG caption Vector layer for bare rock and sparsely vegetated land use/cover.


Unfortunately, the vectored layer output for both layers have an invalid geometry. To correct this problem, and make the layers usable for the rest of the analysis, a new vector layer must be created for each original layer with a buffer of zero. The procedure to do this for both layers is the same. Select "Vector" from the main menu at the top, then "Geoprocessing tools" and then "Buffer". For the slope vector, select the SlopeVoralbergGT25FinalVector layer as the "Input layer" in the Buffer window, set the "Distance" to zero, and select a file name and directory for the new SlopeGT25VectorBuffered layer under "Buffered" and place in the appropriate directory. Leave all the other settings at their default. Press Run to start the buffering process. The procedure is the same for the land use layer using the LandUse332333 vector file.


BufferFinal VorarlbergSlopeGT25.JPG BufferLandUseWindow.JPG








Intersecting the Layers

The final stage of this analysis is to intersect the five layers that have been used to define potentially hazardous areas (based on Annual Rainfall, Geology, Soils, Land Use and Slope)to determine the final area where the characteristics combine to make the area a combined hazardous area. To do this, a series of intersection operations are performed:

Annual Rainfall intersects with Geology to give AnnualRainfallGeologyIntersection AnnualRainfallGeology intersects with Soils to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsIntersection AnnualRainfallGeologySoils intersects with Land Use to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseIntersection AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUse intersects with Slope to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeIntersection

To give the final combined hazardous areas within the 1000 metre railway buffer:

AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlope intersects with Rail Buffer to give AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeRailBufferIntersection

To create the intersection layers, select "Vector" from the top menu, then "Geoprocessing Tools" and then "Intersection".

VectorIntersectionTool.jpg


In the intersection window, under "Input Layer" select the first of the two layers that are to be intersected. In the "Overlay layer", select the second layer that is to be intersected. Under "Advanced Parameters", a new filename is entered for the new intersection file that is saved in the appropriate project directory. Leave all other options at their default settings. Pressing "Run" starts the intersection process. The Intersection Window for each of the five intersections are shown below with their output layers.


AnnualRainfallGeologyIntersection.JPG caption Rainfall and Geology Intersection Layer

AnnualRainfallGeologySoilsIntersectionImage.JPG Caption Rainfall-Geology and Soils Intersection Layer

RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseIntersectionWindow.JPG caption Rainfall-Geology-Soils and Land Use Intersection Layer

RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeIntersection.JPG caption Rainfall-Geology-Soils-Landuse and Slope Intersection Layer

RainfallGeologySoilsLandUseSlopeRailBufferIntersectionWindow.JPG caption Rainfall-Geology-Soils-Landuse-Slope and Rail Buffer Intersection Layer

Final Maps

Here are the final maps showing the hazardous areas of concern for mass movements along railway lines in Vorarlberg region. These are areas where mean annual rainfall, soils, geology,land use and slope with characteristics that are prone to mass movements overlap.

Caption Map of Vorarlberg showing hazardous areas along rail line

caption Zoomed in map of hazardous areas.


References

Laimer. H. 2017. Anthropogenically induced landslides – A challenge for railway infrastructure in mountainous regions. Engineering Geology. 222:92-101.

Peruccacci, S., M. Brunetti, S. Gariano, M. Melillo, M. Rossi, and F. Guzzetti (2017). Rainfall thresholds for possible landslide occurrence in Italy. Geomorphology 290: 39-57.

Rachoy C. and M. Scheikl (2006). Anthropogenic caused mass movements and their impact on railway lines in Austria. Pages 639 – 643 in H. Mauri and M. Mikos, editors. Disaster mitigation of debris flow, slope failures and landslides. Universal Academy Press, Tokyo, Japan.

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