Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems

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Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems

• An introduction to the world of mapping your
  watershed!

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What is remote sensing?

• Remote sensing is the use of data collected by
  precision instruments such as cameras, probes,
  and sensors that are not being operated directly
  by a technician in the field

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Why is remote sensing important for us?

• The world is such a vast place that the ability
  to understand how ecosystems like an estuary or
  watershed work require scientists to seek and use
  large data sets to interpret changes

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What are orthographic photos?

• Orthographic photos are aerial photos taken at an
  absolute right angle to the earths surface.
• This type of photo is useful because it can be
  used for exact measurement, and accurate
  interpretation of many features of the landscape
  and waterways.
• Sets taken overtime help to track changes in the
  landscape

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Aerial photo flyover
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An orthographic aerial photo of Charleston, Oregon
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What is GIS?

• GIS (Geographic Information System) is a
  computer-based mapping tool that allows users to
  manipulate large sets of data as layers or
  themes.
• These layers appear as graphics on a base layer
  like a map or orthographic aerial photo.
• Layers can be viewed together or separately
  depending on the information a viewer is looking
  for

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Simple GIS Sunset Middle School, Coos Bay, OR
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Mapping in the classroom

• Google Earth Maps allows viewers to get a
  similar view from anywhere in the world!
• We can study the local watershed by identifying
  waterways, habitat types and land uses from
  Google images.
• Mapping in a GIS fashion will provide a visual
  way to easily analyze the surrounding watershed.
  
• A ground truth will verify some of our work