A Canadian perspective on the application of satellite remote sensing to regional geobotany

Abstract

In recent years, developments in remote sensing and related technologies have led to a resurgence of interest in the concept of geobotany. Interest in these techniques has been particularly keen in Canada since most active mineral exploration areas are vegetation covered. The spatial accuracy and spectral precision of data from remote sensors have improved substantially to the point where reliable and reproducable analysis can be made of vegetation condition and properties as they relate to a variety of geological controls and influences.

This paper establishes the distinction between regional or ‘background’ geobotany and spectral or ‘target’ geobotany. It also describes and illustrates with case examples how techniques of regional geobotany can be applied by geologists, in support of mineral exploration activities, within operational constraints.