Environmental Management Framework Databases Developed Utilizing High Resolution Satellite Imagery and Their Utility for Environmental Monitoring

Joel L. Gevirtz, Walter D. Tomlinson

Within the conterminous United States, published topographic maps do not always provide an accurate up-to-date representation of infrastructure, this problem is much worse in international areas of operation where most maps are considered military secrets. Therefore, any subsequent environmental database development, mapping or interpretation lack an accurate framework upon which they can be integrated. This study was undertaken to examine development strategies for a PC-based mapping and database system dedicated to building environmental management frameworks.

Combining recent high resolution satellite imagery and features interpreted from that imagery, and available government databases provide initial datasets from which the framework is developed. In international areas the imagery is relied upon almost exclusively.

The imagery used here was special acquisition full scene SPOTVIEW 10m panchromatic data. Available databases from both federal and state agencies such as DLG, DEM, and Tiger data were used to generate preliminary maps using developed PC-based mapping software. These databases are updated using the geocoded, ortho-corrected SPOT imagery. The resulting accurate PC digital map database was then used as a framework to which both existing and subsequent data pertinent to environmental assessment was added. From this database, maps, interpretative products and models can be generated.

Development of an environmental management framework within a PC-based database and mapping system provides users with limited computing and software capabilities, the ability to integrate pertinent data, both proprietary and published within an accurate and up-to-date framework.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91020©1995 AAPG Annual Convention, Houston, Texas, May 5-8, 1995