Redistribution of the map: digitized forest cover of Flanders on the third edition of the topograhic map on 1:20,000 (1910-1940), update 2021

This polygon layer depicts the forest cover on the 3rd edition of the 1:20,000 topographic maps (1910–1940). It is highly suitable as a supplement to the forest age map or for specific research, such as locating deforestation. Its use for detailed studies is discouraged, unless for research prospects, as this map can exhibit geographical anomalies. This map was selected for the vectorization of historical forests because automation (image classification) was possible. As an information source, the map has the disadvantage that it was produced over a long period, due to World War I. East and West Flanders (including 1:50,000 map numbers 15, 22, 30, and 38) were mapped around 1910. The eastern half of Flanders was mapped in the 1920s and 1930s. Some map sheets (19/7, 19/8, 20/5, 28/8 and 30/3), were not revised in the early 20th century and therefore reflect the situation around 1885.