SoTerML (Soil and Terrain Markup Language)

SoTerML (Soil and Terrain Markup Language) is a developing markup lanuage to be used to store and exchange soil and terrain related data. SoTerML is as an extension of GeoSciML for SOTER model compliant with ISO/TC190/SC 1 N140 "Recording and Exchange of Soil-Related Data".

SoTerML development is being done within The e-SOTER Platform. GEOSS plans a global Earth Observation System and, within this framework, the e-SOTER project addresses the felt need for a global soil and terrain database. Currently the development of SoTerML is being done as the 7th work package between the project partners. The Centre for Geospatial Science in the University of Nottingham has initiated the development since January 2009. The role of CGS is within the development of the e-SOTER dissemination platform, which is based on INSPIRE principles. Research will focus on the analysis of data specification and, preparing the SoTerML (an XML schema).

This will require: 1. Preparation of the SoTerML, including data dictionary for nomenclatures and various data sources (data and metadata). 2. Development of exchange format/procedures from the World Reference Base 2006. 3. Development of a SoTerML, as an extension of GeoSciML, for SOTER model compliant with ISO/TC190/SC 1 N140 "Recording and Exchange of Soil-Related Data.