Erase

Erase is a GIS spatial overlay tool utilized to derive the parts of the input feature layer that are not overlapped with a particular erase layer. The method employs the geometry of the erase features as a mask, removing overlapping areas from the input data and preserving the rest of the features. In this regard, the Erase tool allows to modify geographic data without having to edit each individual feature.

With regard to GIS and spatial analysis, the Erase method can be helpful in finding the areas left after eliminating some particular geographic restrictions or zones. Specifically, one can remove environmentally restricted areas from the development plan layer, eliminate flooded areas from the suitable lands layer, or remove areas outside the study area from any feature layer. The method is especially beneficial when working with vector data, such as points, lines, and polygons, depending on the GIS software.

Thus, with the use of Erase method, one can simplify spatial data processing, geographic analysis, mapping, and decision-making.