Evaluation of a signature extension approach for monitoringecological integrity in and around protected areas:A case study for Prince Albert National Park

摘要

In this study, a signature extension approach to land cover change detection is explored to develop anrnearth observation based approach for monitoring ecological integrity in Canada's National Parks. Thernapproach utilizes a new radiometric normalization technique to stabilize signatures through time forrnmulti-temporal land cover mapping via signature extension and post classification comparison. Thernadvantage of the new approach is that it can be highly automated allowing for rapid land cover time seriesrngeneration and change analysis. Using Landsat imagery from 1985-2001, it was found that this newrntechnique can effectively identify changes relevant to the ecological integrity of the greater Prince AlbertrnNational Park ecosystem with two example applications: 1) water coverage and 2) coarse scale forestrnlandscape pattern assessment. Limitations of the approach are discussed as well as the potential forrnimprovement through incorporation of expert knowledge.