Landscapes are ecological systems that exist at the scale of kilometers and comprise recognizable elements such as salt marsh, estuaries, forest patches, heathlands, as well as human settlements. Landscape change as defined by the Network, includes both “land cover” and “land use” change.
The primary goal of this protocol will be to monitor landscape change based on land use and land cover classes that can be distinguished by remote sensing. Both terrestrial and sub-tidal environments within and around all of the Northeast Coastal and Barrier Network (NCBN) parks will be monitored.
Determine long-term trends in spatial and temporal patterns of landscape change in and around NCBN parks using remotely sensed imagery.
Describe the existing landscape patterns (land cover and land use) within and around each park.
In 2003, the Network developed a cooperative agreement with remote sensing scientist, Dr. Y.Q. Wang, at the University of Rhode Island. Dr. Wang was tasked with evaluating the use of remote sensing data to map both terrestrial and near-shore vegetation and seagrass. A draft report is currently being reviewed by the network. Further development of this methodology for monitoring is being considered by the Network sensed data. Principal Investigator: Y.Q. Wang, Ph.D.
This protocol is in a development phase in which methods for landscape mapping are being reviewed and compared to determine the most time and cost efficient way to monitor in the network parks. Efficient remote sensing data sources and technical approaches to map both terrestrial and submerged aquatic vegetation in NCBN parks are being explored. The goal will be to develop a long-term coastal monitoring program using advanced remote sensing data and geographic information technology.