ESTONIAN ACADEMY
PUBLISHERS
eesti teaduste
akadeemia kirjastus
cover
Estonian Journal of Ecology
A methodology of the satellite mapping and monitoring of protected landscapes in Estonia; pp. 159–184
PDF | doi: 10.3176/eco.2008.3.01

Authors
Kiira Aaviksoo, Karin Muru
Abstract
The paper presents a methodology and reports on the results of land cover monitoring of seven protected areas covering 3600 km2 using Landsat images from the years 1986–1998. An extensive Land Cover Nomenclature containing 87 categories was elaborated by applying a hybrid classification process combined with classification masks. Land cover changes were monitored and modelled using the Markov Model approach, which characterized the magnitude, direction, and rate of dominant processes, and was used for the prediction of future developments. Landscape diversity parameters and indices were calculated and their changes monitored. The use of Landsat 5 TM satellite imagery combined with ancillary data, GIS, and fieldwork serves as an efficient means for medium-scale landscape monitoring, which is needed in managing protected landscapes. Monitoring maps reveal the main environmental trends over ten years (from the 1980s to the 1990s). This makes it possible to predict threats to conservation objectives, and serves as a reliable input for local and international environment management efforts.
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