A primer on mapping vegetation using remote sensing

Abstract

This paper was presented at the conference ‘Integrating spatial technologies and ecological principles for a new age in fire management’, Boise, Idaho, USA, June 1999 The use of information based upon remotely sensed data is a central factor in our 21st Century society. Scientists in land management agencies especially require accurate and current geospatial information to effectively implement ecosystem management. The increasing need to collect data across diverse landscapes, scales, and ownerships has resulted in a wider application of remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and associated geospatial technologies for natural resource applications. This paper summarizes the use of digital remotely sensed data for vegetation mapping. Key steps in preparing vegetation maps are described. These steps include defining project requirements and classification schemes, use of reference data, classification procedures, and assessing accuracy. The role of field personnel and inventory data is described. Case studies and applications of vegetation mapping on national forest land are also included. remote sensing, GIS, mapping, geospatial, project planning.