Abstract: Use of SPOT Satellite Imagery to Obtain GIS Input For Oil Spill Models

H. H. Davis, P. D. Caldwell, P. B. Goodwin, Eric Karver

Satellite imagery is a cost-effective tool for creating and updating basemaps of coastal zones, especially where existing maps and aerial photographs are unavailable, are out-of-date, or provide limited information. Reliable maps of coastal zones arc particularly important for oil spill modeling programs. Color IR (multispectral) images with 20m × 20m ground resolution and black & white (panchromatic) images with 10m × 10m ground resolution of many coastlines around the globe have been acquired from 1986 to present by SPOT Image Corporation. We have digitally merged same-day SPOT panchromatic and multispectral imagery to provide maximum spatial resolution and permit excellent color differentiation of coastal zone features. This combination adequately discrim nates individual features, including pipelines, offshore platforms, storage tanks, jetties, and shoreline type.

The SPOT images were interpreted within a workstation environment and the coastline interpretation map (a digital vector file) was downloaded into a sophisticated oil spill modeling program. This program resides on a PC and is designed to facilitate oil spill simulations, spill response contingency planning, and actual spill incident response. A GIS capability within the modeling program incorporated the SPOT interpretation, information gathered in the field, and geographical data (location of production platforms, pipelines, marine terminals, lease boundaries, sensitive environmental areas, etc.). Chevron is using the nearby San Francisco Bay as a convenient site for evaluating the quality of our image interpretations, accomplishing field work, and streamlining our computer processes Lessons learned and procedures established at our local site have been utilized in overseas operations.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90958©1995 AAPG Pacific Section Meeting, San Francisco, California