A primer on mapping vegetation using remote sensing

The use of information based upon remotely sensed data is a central factor in our 21 st Century society. Scientists in land management agencies especi ally require accurate and current geospatial information to effectively imp lement ecosystem management. The increasing need to collect data across div erse landscapes, scales, and ownerships has resulted in a wider application of remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and associated geo spatial technologies for natural resource applications. This paper summariz es the use of digital remotely sensed data for vegetation mapping. Key step s in preparing vegetation maps are described. These steps include defining project requirements and classification schemes, use of reference data, cla ssification procedures, and assessing accuracy. The role of field personnel and inventory data is described. Case studies and applications of vegetati on mapping on national forest land are also included.