Laser altimetry and terrain analysis: A revolution in geomorphology

Terrain analysis in geomorphology has undergone a serious quantitative revolution over recent decades. Lidar information has been efficiently used to automatically classify discrete landforms, map forest structures, and provide input for models simulating landscape development, e.g. channel incision development and rock-fall processes. Quantitative digital terrain analyses and dynamic modelling in geomorphology and forestry have immensely increased the validity of future landscape change scenarios. Further developments in digital GIS-based maps may lead to standardised automated terrain-analysis techniques and more insight into landscape evolution.