Vegetation Mapping for the Upper Columbia Basin Network
Project ID: J9W88050004
Federal Agency: National Park Service
Partner Institution: University of Idaho
Fiscal Year: 2005
Initial Funding: $20,000
Total Funding: $20,000
Project Type: Research
Project Disciplines: Biological
National Park: Upper Columbia Network Inventory & Monitoring
Principal Investigator: Wright, Gerry
Agreement Technical Representative: Svancara, Leona
Abstract: The work proposed under this task agreement will complete vegetation mapping in two UCBN parks (Big Hole NB and Whitman Mission NHS) using ASTER satellite data. The objectives of this project are: (1) To determine the current (~2000) spatial distribution and size of land cover types within and surrounding the parks at a thematic resolution (based on the National Vegetation Classification System) most appropriate for long-term monitoring and management; and (2) To provide a cost-effective and timely product with resolution and accuracy standards similar to the NPS Vegetation Mapping Program (0.05 ha MMU, >80% accuracy/class). The results of this project will allow UCBN staff to identify, map, and monitor changes in the patterns of land cover on lands within and adjacent to these parks and will provide base-level support for various vital sign monitoring (e.g., sampling design, viewshed analysis, focal species occurrences). In addition, this project will enable Network staff and resource managers to assess land use impacts and make better-informed resource management decisions.
Deliverables: