Developing a Framework for Monitoring Coastal Wetlands with High Resolution Satellite Imagery in 4D

Session: 61. - Remote Sensing, Visualization, and Spatial Data Applications for the Great Lakes

Laura Bourgeau-Chavez, Michigan Tech Research Inst., [email protected]
Michael Battaglia, MTRI, [email protected]
Brian Huberty, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, [email protected]
Colin Brooks, Michigan Tech Research Institute, [email protected]
Amanda Grimm, Michigan Tech Research Inst., [email protected]
Sarah Grelik, Michigan Tech Research Institute, [email protected]
Brian Brisco, Natural Resources Canada, [email protected]
Sarah Banks, Environment and Climate Change Canada, [email protected]

Abstract

A binational team is working on developing a framework for monitoring coastal wetlands of the Great Lakes in 4D using high resolution Digital Globe optical and Radarsat-2 synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite imagery.  Teams from six institutions are working together to streamline the process of acquiring the data, developing automated algorithms, processing big data and serving up products.  SAR satellite imagery are being acquired every 24 days (May-Oct) with WorldView2 imagery as cloud cover permits.  Four sites were the target of imaging and product development in 2016 and that was expanded to 12 sites in 2017, and to 34 sites in 2018.  The SAR data are being used to create temporal maps of changes in surface water extent, water level and flooded vegetation for each of the study sites. SAR and WorldView2 imagery are being used alone as well as in combination to produce wetland classifications including detection of invasive species. Stereo WorldView2 are being used to produce dynamic digital surface models. The goal is to eventually provide wetland habitat indicators derived from remote sensing imagery in 4D every time an image is collected for the entire Great Lakes coastline to help wetland managers assess wildlife and wetland health.

1. Keyword
coastal ecosystems

2. Keyword
monitoring

3. Keyword
ecosystem health

4. Additional Keyword
invasive plants

5. Additional Keyword
inundation extent

6. Additional Keyword
water level change