Spatial information systems 16 An Introduction to Temporal-Geographic Information Systems (TGIS) for Assessing, Monitoring and Modelling Regional Water and Soil Processes Tim R. McVicar* Phil J. Davies†, Yang Qinke‡ and Guanglu Zhang§ Abstract In this chapter we introduce the concept of temporal-geographic information systems (TGIS). We first describe some nontemporal concepts of GIS, consider the issues of scale and of continuous and discrete data, and give a brief background to the basis of remote sensing measurements. Using the concept of the ‘data construct’ as a tool for understanding TGIS data structures, we explain the relationship between characteristics (extent, resolution and density) and domains (attribute, spatial and temporal) of each dataset. Finally, we discuss two emerging issues in TGIS: the assessment of spatial–temporal accuracy and uncertainty, and the use of metadata systems. * CSIRO Land and Water, PO Box 1666, Canberra 2601, Australia. Email:
[email protected] † CSIRO Land and Water, PMB 2, Glen Osmond, SA 5064, Australia. ‡ Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, No. 26 Xinong Road, Yang Ling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, PRC. § Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shijiazhuang Institute of Agricultural Modernisation, PO Box 185, Shijiazhuang 050021, PRC. McVicar, T.R., Davies, P.J., Yang Qinke and Guanglu Zhang. 2002. An introduction to temporal-geographic information systems (TGIS) for assess- ing, monitoring and modelling regional water and soil processes. In: McVicar, T.R., Li Rui, Walker, J., Fitzpatrick, R.W. and Liu Changming (eds), Regional Water and Soil Assessment for Managing Sustainable Agriculture in China and Australia, ACIAR Monograph No.