Pacific Northwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU)

Development of a Landscape Dynamics Monitoring Protocol for Sierra Nevada Network Parks

Project ID: J8W07070024

Federal Agency: National Park Service

Partner Institution: Oregon State University

Fiscal Year: 2007

Initial Funding: $100,000

Total Funding: $100,000

Project Type: Research

Project Disciplines: Physical

National Park: Sierra Nevada Network Inventory & Monitoring

Principal Investigator: Yang, Zhiqiang

Agreement Technical Representative: Mutch, Linda

Abstract: The National Park Service Sierra Nevada Network parks have chosen to monitor landscape changes over time using remote sensing data and technology. The goal is to use existing tested analytical techniques to develop a system of protocols that will address the goals of landscape monitoring. The objectives of the monitoring will be to detect and map changes in vegetation patterns, vegetation condition, snow cover, fire events, and vegetation phenology. Landscape metrics will be derived to analyze the direction and type of landscape change observed. The protocols will detail all the steps required to take raw remotely sensed data and pre-processed it, analyze it, and produce data that indicates where the landscape has changed in some respect. When necessary, the protocols will also detail the field validation work that is to be done. Pilot studies will be used to test and validate change detection causation. The final protocols will contain an estimate of the time and costs associated with applying each protocol.

Deliverables: