A cartographic representation detailing the natural landforms and features of a specific Northwestern U.S. state, it delineates mountains, valleys, rivers, deserts, and coastal regions. For example, such a representation would illustrate the Cascade Mountain Range bisecting the state, the Columbia River forming a significant portion of its border, and the Olympic Peninsula’s rugged terrain.
Understanding the state’s diverse topography is crucial for various applications. Resource management, urban planning, disaster preparedness (such as flood and landslide mitigation), and scientific research all rely on accurate depictions of the land’s physical characteristics. Historically, these representations have aided in exploration, settlement, and infrastructure development, shaping the state’s growth.
