Chaeli Judd

MAPPING SALT MARSH VEGETATION USING AERIAL HYPERSPECTRAL IMAGERY AND LINEAR UNMIXING IN HUMBOLDT BAY, CALIFORNIA

Composition of salt marsh vegetation is important to wetland ecosystem health, and monitoring invasive species is critical. The purpose of this study was to examine the utility of airborne hyperspectral imagery in mapping salt marsh vegetation in Humboldt Bay, California, USA. An unmixing algorithm was applied to spatial and spectral image subsets. Overall accuracy among Spartina densiflora, Salicornia virginica, and Distichlis spicata was assessed at 85.1%. Algorithm prediction between observed and predicted percent cover ranged from r2 = 0.32 to r2 = 0.53, an improvement on comparable studies. Percent cover prediction was least accurate for Distichlis spicata, due to initial endmember selection. Use of the Pixel Purity Index in conjunction with field work likely aided in identifying the best candidates for the linear unmixing technique.

Rapid Characterization of Shorelines Using a Georeferenced Video Mapping System

Abstract Anderson, M.G.; Judd, C., and Marcoe, K., 2012. Rapid characterization of shorelines using a georeferenced video mapping system. Mapping shoreline resources is crucial for coastal planning, yet current approaches are limited in ability to characterize remote areas or detect small features. Documentation using video mapping may provide a rapid and repeatable method for assessing the current state of the environment and determining changes to the shoreline over time. In this publication, we compare two studies using boat-based, georeferenced video mapping in coastal Washington and the Columbia River Estuary to map and characterize coastal stressors and shoreline condition. The coastal Washington study in Clallam County was completed in 1 day and covered a distance of 70 km, whereas the Columbia River Estuary study was conducted over a 10-day period and covered 1030 km. In both areas, multiple features were mapped along the shoreline. The position and orientation of the camera allowed for characterization of vertically oriented features such as shoreline armoring, and smaller features such as pilings and large woody debris. These types of features could not be consistently detected using traditional aerial photo interpretation. In addition, end users noted that the georeferenced video provides a permanent record to allow a user to examine recorded video anywhere along the boat transect.

Macroalgae Analysis A National GIS-based Analysis of Macroalgae Production Potential Summary Report and Project Plan

The overall project objective is to conduct a strategic analysis to assess the state of macroalgae as a feedstock for biofuels production. The objective in FY11 is to develop a multi-year systematic national assessment to evaluate the U.S. potential for macroalgae production using a GIS-based assessment tool and biophysical growth model developed as part of these activities. The initial model development for both resource assessment and constraints was completed and applied to the demonstration areas. The model for macroalgal growth was extended to the EEZ off the East and West Coasts of the United States, and a plan to merge the findings for an initial composite assessment was developed. In parallel, an assessment of land-based, port, and offshore infrastructure needs based on published and grey literature was conducted. Major information gaps and challenges encountered during this analysis were identified. Also conducted was an analysis of the type of local, state, and federal requirements that pertain to permitting land-based facilities and nearshore/offshore culture operations

Summary of Training Workshop on the Use of NASA tools for Coastal Resource Management in the Gulf of Mexico

A two-day training workshop was held in Xalapa, Mexico from March 10-11 2009 with the goal of training end users from the southern Gulf of Mexico states of Campeche and Veracruz in the use of tools to support coastal resource management decision-making. The workshop was held at the computer laboratory of the Institute de Ecologia, A.C. (INECOL). This report summarizes the results of that workshop and is a deliverable to our NASA client.

Restoration Prioritization Toolset: Documentation and User's Guides 2007

This user’s guide provides technical background and details on the Restoration Prioritization Toolset developed for GoMRC as well as instructions for use.