Variability in the location of mapped fault traces based on geomorphic mapping of remote-sensing datasets from 23 mappers

• DOI: 10.5194/egusphere-egu25-14423
• Publication Date: 2025-03-15T02:16:55Z
• Authors: Malinda Zuckerman; Chelsea Scott; Ramon Arrowsmith; Christopher Madugo; Rich Koehler; Albert Kottke

Mapping of neotectonic faults is critical to the scientific study earthquake processes and surface rupture hazard analysis. Geologists commonly map fault traces from remote sensing datasets by interpreting tectonic landforms formed past earthquakes. However, evidence for faulting not always straightforward observe interpret. Even experts differently. We seek understand variability in trace mapping mappers with different experience, ranging undergraduate students professional geologists decades experience. An individual’s understanding impacted their yet people similar experiences can interpret areas No matter experience level, all have gaps knowledge, unexpected ways. anticipate that results will improve development standardized practices.To evaluate effect differing knowledge on mapped locations, 23 varying levels produced maps pre-rupture topography imagery acquired before interest. Mappers include four students, eleven graduate two postdocs, three mid- senior-level geologists. The used a systematic approach based geomorphology.To assess quality, we compared published coseismic maps. evaluated 1) percentage ruptures were predicted faults, 2) ruptured recent earthquake, 3) distribution around indicative geomorphic landforms, 4) impact data type use geologic map. found slight improvement level portion ruptured. For near best location, highest error.  Less experienced tended misinterpret some geomorphology. Despite these differences participants did rupture. most successful high-resolution (~1m/pix). Aerial was less useful high vegetation anthropogenic activity. Using maps.While has small accuracy, our start defining epistemic uncertainty mapping. Our also suggest remains challenging regardless expertise highlight need improved practices.