How to recognize and describe water features on topographic maps.

Water features can be either natural or human-built. Natural water features can include oceans, seas, lakes, swamps, rivers, waterfalls, rapids, estuaries, waterholes, boreholes, wells, and springs, whereas human-built water features include water tanks, canals, dams and cattle dips.

On topographic maps, water features are usually indicated by conventional symbols, as shown in the figure below. 

Many cartographers prefer to use blue as a conventional color for water features. To recognize which water features are included in a given map, it is advised to study the map legend first.

*Tips for students* 

When requires to describe water features in topographic maps, follow the following hint;

1. Identify the dominant water feature(s) on the area mapped, and state their location in the map. You may also give any relevant geographic information regarding them. For example;
• If the dominant features are lakes, you may state their location on the map and assess/determine what type of lakes they might be e.g. Crater lakes, basin lakes, ox-bow lakes, seasonal lakes, etc. 
• If the dominant features are rivers, identify the main rivers in the area, and describe the direction of flow and the drainage pattern for each of them. 
• If the dominant features are swamps, you may state their location on the map and assess/determine what type of swamps they might be e.g. seasonal swamps, mangrove swamps, papyrus swamps or permanent swamps.
2. Give a brief description of the location and distribution of other water features on the map.
3. Examine for any possible indications of human influence on the water features on the mapped area, and give a brief description of it.

Recommended to read: Recognizing drainage patterns on topographic maps

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