Geomorphological Survey and Mapping Practice for Physical Characteristics at Precet Forest Park Study

Abstract

Geomorphology is a field of study that focuses on landforms and the natural processes that shape the earth’s surface. The physical characteristics of an area are important for determining land use suitability, environmental management, and disaster risk mitigation, especially in volcanic regions. This study aims to carry out a geomorphological survey and mapping of Precet Forest Park, located on the slopes of Mount Kawi, East Java. The research uses a descriptive quantitative approach by combining field surveys and geospatial data analysis. Primary data were obtained from Total Station measurements, GPS tracking, and observations of land use, landforms, and soil characteristics. Meanwhile, secondary data such as DEMNAS, geological maps, and soil type maps from official sources were used to support the analysis. The morphometric data were processed using interpolation methods including Kriging, Minimum Curvature, and Polynomial techniques through Surfer and QGIS software. The results showed that the study area is dominated by volcanic landforms with Cambisol soils that have a silty clay texture. The topography is characterized by steep to undulating slopes with varying soil permeability and saturation levels, which affect slope stability. Mass movements such as slumps were identified in several locations. The findings of this research are expected to support land use planning and environmental management efforts, as well as serve as a learning reference for geography students in applying geomorphological mapping techniques in the field.