Mapping southeast Asian wetlands using remote sensing: The training project approach

Abstract

The natural inland wetlands of southeast Asia can be effectively inventoried, assessed and monitored with the aid of remote-sensing technology. Appropriate combinations of satellite imagery and aerial photography at various scales can greatly reduce the amount of field work needed to delineate wetland boundaries and identify wetland types. In some cases, depending upon project requirements (map scale, wetland category detail, whether categories are based upon vegetation structure or species associations, spatial and thematic accuracy specifications, and availability of collateral data), field work may be practically eliminated.

The most accurate and rapid results will be achieved by trained image analysts who are familiar with the wetlands of the region. In most cases, organizations with wetland mapping/management responsibilities do not have this trained and experienced manpower. This paper describes the ‘training project’ approach, a joint activity between a training institution and the organization which must produce a wetlands map, usually a national government natural resources agency. Agency employees receive training in specific project needs, which may include wetland identification, image processing, airphoto interpretation, field work, and mapping. Concurrent with the classroom training, the employees carry out the project, under supervision, over a period of several months. At the completion of the training project, the organisation receives the needed wetlands inventory and maps, as well as employees who are trained in wetland mapping.