Using Map Layers

Learn how to explore, filter, customize, and access data within your map layers.

With Transect's Map Layers widget, you can visualize environmental data, political boundaries, infrastructure networks, and other pre-loaded datasets within your map.

In this article, you'll learn how to:

• View and Favorite a Map Layer
• Filter within a Map Layer
• View a Map Layer's Properties
• Locate a Map Layer's Reference Data

Viewing and Favoriting Map Layers

After navigating to the Map, users can easily add, remove, and favorite map layers from the widget.

• Within the Map Layers widget, use the 'Quick Filter' bar to search or scroll to locate your preferred layer.
• Activate a layer by selecting the checkbox, or remove a layer by deselecting the checkbox.
• When hovering over a layer, click the pushpin icon to add it to favorites. Favorited layers are shown at the top of the list.

Filtering within a Map Layer

Some layers, such as the Electric Power Transmission Lines and Powerplants, offer additional filtering options in the map. To apply additional filters:

• Within the Map Layers widget, hover over an applied layer and select the Options/Legend icon on the right-side.

• For Electric Power Transmission Lines (HIFLD):

  • The legend will show the various options for that layer, select Filter.

• • Select an attribute and operation from the dropdowns, then input a value.
  • When finished, select the + to apply your changes.

• For Powerplants (EIA):

  • Check the box next to each relevant energy source to show it on the map.
    

Viewing a Map Layer's Properties

Each map layer has icons to view the legend, modify opacity, and review reference information. These icons are located next to the layer in the widget:

1. Label: Adds corresponding text to the map to quickly locate additional details. 
2. Options/legend: Select this to populate the options and legend for that specific layer.
3. Information: Provides a map layer's source, date, and description.
4. Opacity: Drag the dial to adjust the opacity of your layer. By default, all layers are set to 100%.
5. Legend: Provides a breakdown of how each color is visualized on the map.

Locating a Map Layer's Attribute Data

To view detailed attribute data within a map layer, such as the Parcel ID number, voltage for a transmission line, or type for a wetland, simply right-click on the desired data layer on the map. This action will generate a popup window that provides relevant data within the layer.