Based on the introduction of concepts for temporal-geograp hic information systems(TGIS)

and rele-vant concept s including cartograp hic scale

extent

resolution and scaling

progresses of TGIS in western and Chi-na were reviewed briefly. Then the spatial and temporary properties

and the database construction method of TGIS

main applications of TGIS in regional soil erosion researches

including patio-temporary analysis of landuse change

interpolation of sampling data

were discussed. Emerging issues for TGIS research and pplication

in-cluding the assessmentof spatial-temporal accuracy and uncertainty

were discussed at last.