Digital Hillslope Position Image Gallery

The Digital Hillslope Position and Floodplain (DHPFP) model classifies the Iowa landscape into seven terrain-based categories: summit, shoulder, backslope, footslope, toeslope, and floodplain. The classification is based on terrain derivatives—slope, curvature, and relative elevation—calculated from a high-resolution (3-meter) LiDAR-based digital elevation model (DEM). These slope positions represent functional segments of hillslopes that influence soil formation, water movement, and land use.

Applied Relevance

DHPFP can be used to infer patterns of soil drainage, erosion risk, and landscape stability. For example, summits often support well-developed, stable soils, while backslopes and footslopes are more prone to erosion or accumulation. Floodplains typically contain poorly drained, frequently saturated soils. This classification supports conservation planning, digital soil mapping, hydrologic modeling, and precision agriculture.

Available Depths

This is a surface-based classification and is not depth-dependent. However, it can be paired with soil property datasets (e.g., organic matter, water retention) to explore vertical variation across slope positions.