Monitoring Spatiotemporal Heterogeneity of Arid Wetlands

Abstract

Wetlands are valuable ecosystems that benefit society. They allow for gradual recharge of groundwater, provide critical habitat for plants, fish and wildlife, control erosion, mitigate water pollution, provide food and recreational bases for people and contribute to healthy water cycles and lake levels (Tiner 199). This research combines the use of NASA Landsat and ASTER satellite imagery, aerial photographs, and climate data to improve remote sensing techniques for monitoring the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of arid wetlands. The results of this technique will give more detailed information on wetland dynamics by creating a unique signature for each wetland based on its spectral, spatial and temporal characteristics. This technique can be used to help with wetland habitat selection for preservation or to understand how wetland policies and land use decisions affect wetland dynamics.