A HARMONIZED MAP OF GLACIAL LANDFORM REGIONS IN THE CENTRAL LOWLANDS OF NORTH AMERICA

We have attempted to maximize information from currently available surficial geology, soil, and topographic maps to produce a harmonized map displaying the glacial landform regions in the Upper Midwest portion of the Central Lowlands physiographic province, encompassing Minnesota, Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, and Indiana. In producing our map, emphasis was placed on delineating areas associated with differing ages and topographic characteristics (hummocky terrains, low-relief plains, streamlined topography, etc.). After more than 150 years of excellent geological research and cartography, the Central Lowlands of North America are covered by a tapestry of thematic maps characterizing the land surface materials of the region. The currently available maps span generations of scientific understanding and a variety of purposes. Most of these maps are made for state or county-level extents. Because each of the maps were produced by different people with different styles and goals, the maps are usually difficult to use together to form a holistic view of the Central Lowlands physiographic region. In some ways, geographic information systems make it easier to use these data sets together, but a large amount of synthesis is still needed to merge the strengths of the different, localized maps. We invite the audience to critique our synthesis of available information and contribute their expertise for further improvements.