Assessing Land Cover in Forest Reserves Using Remote Sensing Tools

Tropical rainforests are home to many biological species that are currently facing threats due to deforestation and other factors. As human populations grow, institutional and policy frameworks change, new demands for land and natural resources emerge, terrestrial environments continue to be modified impacting the habitats of many species and the environmental services that these habitats provide to their populations. Remote sensing technologies are a great resource that help researchers detect deforestation, make informed decisions, and monitor forest regrowth. Through this case study-based exercise, students use remote sensing imagery and spatial analysis software to identify and map potential deforestation hotspots at a forest reserve in Ghana. Students then consider the patterns in the results, the implications of land cover changes, and then suggest policy recommendations through a discussion and presentation.