The way forward

This paper focuses on the lessons learned in the conduct of the Internation al Geosphere Biosphere Program's Data and Information System (IGBP-DIS), gl obal 1-km Land-Cover Mapping Project (DISCover). There is still considerabl e fundamental research to be conducted dealing with the development and val idation of thematic geospatial products derived from a combination of remot ely sensed and ancillary data. Issues include database and data product dev elopment, classification legend definitions, processing and analysis techni ques, and sampling strategies. A significant infrastructure is required to support an effort such as DISCover. The infrastructure put in place under t he auspices of the IGBP-DIS serves as a model, and must be put in place to enable replication and development of projects such as DISCover.