Erika Pretorius

Last update: 22 January 2016

Title: Development of a methodology for the classification and mapping of forage resources linked with transboundary buffalo movements within the Greater Transfrontier Conservation Area (GLTFCA).

Summary

The aim of this project is the classification and mapping of the spatial and temporal characteristics of grazing resource distribution. The initial focus area is the savanna ecosystem of the Pafuri region along the northern boundary of the Kruger National Park (South Africa) which encompasses varied physiographic characteristics.

 The analysis will be based on field data collections, existing environmental data and satellite imagery. Four field visits associated with different periods of the hydrological cycle have been completed. A total of 33 locations for these field visits have been identified utilizing ocular estimates along with 2009 geo-corrected Spot imagery and broad scale floristically based vegetation zones generated by SANBI (South African National Biodiversity Institute). Ideally, each site had to be homogeneous in nature and accessible from a road. Were necessary, adjustments to site locations were made once in the field. Field observations were collected using a field record form and supporting photographic evidence (Figure 1). With the exception of the high rainfall period during summer, multispectral Spot imagery corresponding with the time of field observations have been obtained. Available environmental data includes vector data layers on soil, land types, eco zones and topographic information. 

Vegetation structure and vegetation changes will be mapped using image analysis techniques. Methodological support and expertise from CIRAD colleagues in the field of remote sensing and vegetation classification, with specific guidance regarding the appropriate pre-processing and classification methods is planned during May and June 2012. Due to the impact of factors like tree canopy cover, vegetation phenology, soil characteristics and moisture content on reflectance values when analysing satellite imagery, the methodology and results may differ spatially and seasonally between different physiographic regions.

Last update: 22 January 2016