State geologists who study landslides now have the most advanced mapping technology in the world.

Unlike aerial photos which appear cluttered with trees and buildings, new laser mapping digitally strips every plant or structure from the image revealing every bump on the bare earth.

The laser mapping reveals features long hidden from view.

Bill Burns, a geologist with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, says, "We're finding just hundreds more landslides than were previously identified."

So far the state has mapped 150 square miles of land around Portland. The goal is to map another 2300 square miles of the most populated areas.

James Roddey, also with D.O.G.A.M.I., says they hope to "use this technology for everything from hazard mapping to road building to forest management. It's really amazing."

Old style topographic maps reflect elevation levels accurate to within about 30 feet. Roddey says laser mapping "is accurate to within a couple of inches. That's something we've never been able to get close to."

Ideally, they'll identify not only the ancient landslides of thousands of years ago but be able to begin making predictions for cities and counties about which land is the riskiest as they plan development.

Says Burns, "We are able to go to the next step which is where we think we might have sliding in the future."

The state has decided to make the maps available to the public as well. A new website allows users to input an address, add various layers to the map, and see if they live in an earthquake or landslide prone area.

They caution the site may be slow. It's a small server already straining to keep up with public demand.

 Link: High-Def Laser Mapping