Vegetative Cover Change Analysis
Definition
Vegetative cover change analysis quantifies how vegetation extent and condition shift through time using multi-date imagery, indices, and classification. Approaches include post-classification comparison, trajectory analysis, and trend detection on indices with quality masks. Careful attention to seasonality, sensor differences, and disturbance events ensures valid interpretation.
Application
Forest agencies track deforestation and reforestation; rangeland managers assess degradation and recovery; urban teams monitor park maintenance; and disaster response maps burn severity and regrowth.
FAQ
How do you avoid false change from phenology?
Compare like seasons, use seasonal composites, and model expected cycles; flag departures that persist beyond seasonal norms.
What role do accuracy assessments play?
Confusion matrices on each date and on change classes reveal where errors propagate; report user/producer accuracy and area-adjusted estimates.
How to integrate radar for cloud-prone regions?
Fuse SAR with optical indices to detect canopy loss under clouds; calibrate for moisture effects to avoid false positives.
What is a practical way to communicate small but important trends?
Use cumulative loss charts and spatially aggregated statistics by watershed or jurisdiction alongside maps to avoid visual underrepresentation.