KROHN, M. DENNIS, and ROBERT G. CLARK, U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, VA

ABSTRACT: Regional Environmental Effects in West Virginia: Linking Biological and Geological Processes through Temporal Satellite Analysis

Biweekly weather satellite mosaics of the conterminous United States have the potential to be a significant resource in assessing regional environmental features and changes. We analyzed data from the multitemporal, l-km resolution, Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) by using a vegetative index from March 2 to October 22, 1990, for West Virginia and surrounding areas. Two forest units having similar vegetative response were defined in eastern West Virginia, one of which extends into northeast Kentucky. Both have diffuse borders that are most discernible during spring greening and fall senescence and generally are not observed during full summer canopy conditions. In addition, a north-northwest-trending linear feature was observed at the junction of the two forest units a d extends into southwest Ohio toward Lake Erie. These biologically derived features do not correspond precisely to presently mapped physiographic or geologic units, nor does the lineament correspond well with features mapped from a recent statewide analysis of potential field geophysics and radar images. We propose that regional environmental effects may be observed spatially and temporally on multitemporal satellite images as (1) interrelated units or ecosystems, (2) complex regional gradients or changes in background, (or 3) sharp boundaries or conduits associated with hydrologic flow regimes. The regional scale of the AVHRR may be a critical scale for linking biologic and geologic processes.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90995©1993 AAPG Eastern Section Meeting, Williamsburg, Virginia, September 19-21, 1993.