An unsupervised classification-based time series change detection approach for mapping forest disturbance
Date
2021
Authors
Parshakov, Ilia
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Arts and Science
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Dept. of Geography and Environment
Abstract
Unsupervised Classification to Change (UC-Change) is a new remote sensing approach for mapping areas affected by logging and wildfires. It addresses the main limitations of existing image time-series change detection techniques, such as limited multi-sensor capabilities, use of purely spectral-based forest recovery metrics, and poor detection of salvage harvesting. UC Change detects disturbances and tracks forest recovery by analyzing changes in the spatial distribution of spectral classes over time. The algorithm detected approximately 85% and 70% of reference cutblock and fire scar pixels at a ±2-year temporal agreement, respectively, consistently outperforming existing algorithms across different biogeoclimatic zones of British Columbia, Canada. The results indicate an upper estimate of 7.5 million ha of forest cleared between 1984 and 2014, which is above estimates based on existing maps and databases (6.3 – 6.7 million ha). Also presented is a new framework for using open-access data for validation of change detection results.
Description
Keywords
remote sensing , change detection , environmental monitoring , forest disturbance , machine learning , forestry , time series , Landsat , Sentinel-2 , UC-Change , cutblocks , clearcuts , forest harvest , Forest monitoring -- British Columbia , Forests and forestry -- British Columbia -- Remote sensing , Forests and forestry -- British Columbia -- Forecasting -- Mathematical models , Forests and forestry -- British Columbia -- Measurement -- Data processing , Forest mapping -- British Columbia , Time series analysis -- Data processing , Clearcutting -- British Columbia -- Measurement , Cutover lands -- British Columbia -- Measurement , Logging -- British Columbia -- Measurement , Wildfires -- British Columbia -- Measurement , Image analysis -- Data processing , Remote sensing images -- Data processing , Dissertations, Academic