A framework for selecting appropriate remotely sensed data dimensions for environmental monitoring and management

Two major factors are likely to impact the utilisation of remotely sensed d ata in the near future: (1)an increase in the number and availability of co mmercial and non-commercial image data sets with a range of spatial, spectr al and temporal dimensions, and (2) increased access to image display and a nalysis software through GIS. A framework was developed to provide an objec tive approach to selecting remotely sensed data sets for specific environme ntal monitoring problems. Preliminary applications of the framework have pr ovided successful approaches for monitoring disturbed and restored wetlands in southern California.