QGIS

Software for looking at map data

QGIS is a free and open-source geographic information system (GIS) that allows you to create, edit, visualize, analyze, and publish geospatial information on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, BSD, and mobile devices. It is an official project of the Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGeo) and supports numerous vector, raster, and database formats and functionalities. You can use QGIS to view geotechnical map data and perform various analyses.

Download Here: https://www.qgis.org/en/site/

Creating contour Maps

First, download data from a reputable source such as USGS, or a state data clearinghouse. For this example, we use data from this link and unzip it: https://clearinghouse.isgs.illinois.edu/data/hydrology/potential-agricultural-chemical-contamination-aquifers

Next, using the left file navigation panel, find IL_Pest_Leach_Class_Range_Py.shp and double click on it

This brings up a contour map of Illinois, but it is not useful just yet since we want regions to be colored based on the data:

Right click on the map under the "Layers" panel and select "Properties"

Change the type to "Graduated"

Now select the value that will determine the color

Choose the color ramp type you want, then under mode select "Fixed Interval". You can set the interval size to whatever value is appropriate for the data. You can save this style if you want by choosing the appropriate options under the "style" button on the bottom of the window. Click OK to view the map.

You can export this map as an image using the Project -> Import/Export -> Export Map as Image

Set up the image as you wish, then save the file. I recommend using the .tiff file format. Note that the current map view will be exported.