In the "Digitizing" lab for GIS Fundamentals, we used ArcGIS Pro to create detailed maps by digitizing features such as buildings, roads, and ponds. The lab began with setting up a new project in ArcGIS Pro and adding a scanned photograph (StXimg.tif) as a reference image for mapping land cover and vegetation. We then created a new map within the project, removed default layers, and set the map's coordinate system to UTM NAD83(2011) Zone 15N to ensure accurate spatial data representation.

Next, we created a new feature dataset called "NewLayers" and added three feature classes within it: one for buildings (point geometry type), one for roads (polyline geometry type), and one for ponds (polygon geometry type). These feature classes were created to organize and categorize the digitized features effectively.

Using the editing tools in ArcGIS Pro, such as Create and Modify tools, we digitized the features onto the map with precision. We set up the snapping environment to ensure accurate placement of vertices and utilized tools like autocomplete to efficiently fill in areas between existing features. We digitized buildings, roads, and ponds by tracing them on the scanned photograph, ensuring that each feature aligned correctly.

Throughout the digitizing process, we learned techniques for adding, editing, splitting, and merging features. For example, we used autocomplete to quickly add new polygons adjacent to existing ones and merged separate features to ensure seamless boundaries. We also practiced splitting polygons to create new boundaries accurately.

Finally, we created a layout that included essential elements such as titles, legends, north arrow, and scale bar, and saved the map as a PDF for submission. Overall, the lab provided hands-on experience in using ArcGIS Pro for digitizing features and creating detailed maps for various applications.