Mapping forest functional type in a forest-shrubland ecotone using SPOT imagery and predictive habitat distribution modelling

Remote Sensing Letters
By: , and 

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Abstract

The availability of land cover data at local scales is an important component in forest management and monitoring efforts. Regional land cover data seldom provide detailed information needed to support local management needs. Here we present a transferable framework to model forest cover by major plant functional type using aerial photos, multi-date Système Pour l’Observation de la Terre (SPOT) imagery, and topographic variables. We developed probability of occurrence models for deciduous broad-leaved forest and needle-leaved evergreen forest using logistic regression in the southern portion of the Wyoming Basin Ecoregion. The model outputs were combined into a synthesis map depicting deciduous and coniferous forest cover type. We evaluated the models and synthesis map using a field-validated, independent data source. Results showed strong relationships between forest cover and model variables, and the synthesis map was accurate with an overall correct classification rate of 0.87 and Cohen’s kappa value of 0.81. The results suggest our method adequately captures the functional type, size, and distribution pattern of forest cover in a spatially heterogeneous landscape.

Study Area

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Mapping forest functional type in a forest-shrubland ecotone using SPOT imagery and predictive habitat distribution modelling
Series title Remote Sensing Letters
DOI 10.1080/2150704X.2015.1072289
Volume 6
Issue 10
Year Published 2015
Language English
Publisher Taylor & Francis
Contributing office(s) Fort Collins Science Center
Description 10 p.
First page 755
Last page 764
Country United States
State Colorado, Utah, Wyoming
Other Geospatial Wyoming Basin Ecoregion
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
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