The Economic Map - Presentation
The Economic Map (1935 - 1978)
This is a series of maps of Sweden based on a grid system of sheet lines which has played an important role for different sectors engaged in physical planning. The map constitutes a unique time document which reflects both economic and cultural occurrences.
Background to the Economic Map
A new technique of aerial photography was introduced during the 1930's which made low cost mapping of large areas possible. The geodetic system RT38 was introduced so modern and uniform maps with high precision could be produced. A programme for the mapping of the country at a scale of 1:10 000 was formulated. After completion, this map series was the first national map series containing property and geographic information with both a good level of detail and high accuracy.
Included in the Economic Map
The Economic Map was a register map and showed properties and register designations with relatively high accuracy. Details included residential properties, buildings, land plots, gardens, arable land, ditches and even small roads between the plots of arable land. Information from the National Heritage Board regarding ancient monuments and place names were included.
The Economic Map is divided into 50 x 50 cm sheets. The scale is 1:10 000 except for parts of northern Sweden where the scale is 1:20 000.
The map is printed in four colours, green, yellow, black and brown. The main parts of the map and water surfaces are shown in green, with farm land in yellow. Text is in black with contours in brown. Half tone screens are used to depict marsh areas.
Use of the Economic Map
The Economic Map has been used for planning purposes at regional offices and by administrators. Planning includes land and forest use, road and power line construction, and residential building areas.
The Economic Map contains information gathered between 1935 - 1978 which makes it a valuable knowledge base for nature and cultural environmental care, land sub-division activities, physical planning and for the agricultural and forest industries.
