SMC Geography Students Release Initial Canyon Map

The first results of the Santa Monica Canyon Field Survey Map have been integrated into a 3-D map of the Canyon.

The map (here) of residences and businesses throughout Rustic and Santa Monica Canyon aims to highlight buildings, pools, driveway gates, overgrown brush, staircases, hydrants and tanks, construction, debris/waste, and home obstructions so that first responders can more easily help residents in the next emergency.

On Aug. 16, SMC geography students joined with two Canyon residents to map an area beginning in the Boca area at the base of the Canyon and climbing up Rustic Canyon. They then spent time studying the gathered data.

“We collected information on 166 points of interest in the Santa Monica Canyon,” student Allinta Tadesse said. “We found our data points to be relatively high in accuracy with the collection of points having approximately 6.1 m and 7.2 m accuracy vertically and horizontally respectfully.”

The students will be meeting today at 10 a.m. to consider their next steps for the mapping project. The students hope to discuss strategies to continue the collaboration with The Canyon Alliance and ensure that community member's voices are being heard.

“I am so grateful for our ability to be able to work alongside the Canyon,” Tadesse said. “We hope to continue the effort to protect the community and its most vulnerable members.”

To join the meeting or contribute to future mapping events, email Tadesse at tadesse_allinta01@student.smc.edu.