Developing a protocol for remote-sensing based monitoring of vegetation changes in the national parks of the southwest Alaska network (SWAN)

Because of their large size and wilderness character, the parks of the Southwest Alaska Network (SWAN) of the USDI National Park Service intend to incorporate remote sensing technology in protocols for long-term monitoring. Goals include detecting the effects and spatial patterns of avalanches and landslides, insect and disease mortality, fire, volcanic eruption, snow and ice change, and various successional processes.  We are adapting an existing monitoring method, developed for the National Parks of the NCCN (see project description below), based on Landsat Thematic Mapper and Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (TM/ETM+) data. Once methods are adapted and validated (using historical reference data, direct interpretation of satellite imagery, and current-era overflight observation), we will develop a protocol specific to the goals and needs of the SWAN monitoring program.

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