Abstract

Everglades Restoration Canopy Species Characterization and Change Detection Analysis
Track: Environmental Management
Authors: Elizabeth Letts

Development of a cost-effective method to study vast wetland system canopies for mitigation change in wetland restoration with minimal ground work.
Geospatial analysis includes a subset of 1999 Infrared Imagery with a PCA analysis to detail observed variations. Overlay analysis of aerial sketchmapping of exotic species vegetation for 2008, 2010, 2012 and the Principal Components Analysis along with photointerpretation of 2009, 2011 imagery to identify vegetation signatures followed by field confirmation of signatures. Field confirmation completed to validate and ensure accuracy of analysis.
Initial findings show presence of less exotic species vegetation due to exotic treatments in 2005. Cost reduction through use of post-classification change detection procedures (80% accuracy) with future "desktop" monitoring versus field monitoring.
Audiences would find GIS software to their advantage in assessing change in canopy species of ecosystems. The use of ArcGIS will magnify capabilities of scientists to study the earth's environments and monitor ecosystem restorations.