Multi-scale functional mapping of tidal marsh vegetation using object-based image analysis

Abstract

Nearly half of the world’s natural wetlands have been destroyed or degraded, and in recent years, there have been significant endeavors to restore wetland habitat throughout the world. Detailed mapping of restoring wetlands can offer valuable information about changes in vegetation and geomorphology, which can inform the restoration process and ultimately help to improve chances of successful restoration. We performed an object-based image analysis using color infrared aerial photography, which maps specific wetland functions at multiple scales. The combined results of our work highlight important trends and management implications for monitoring wetland restoration using remote sensing, and will further enable restoration ecologists to use remote sensing for tidal marsh monitoring. Restoration objectives, ecosystem function, and scale can be integrated into monitoring techniques using remote sensing for improved restoration monitoring.