Date of Graduation

1999

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MA

College

Eberly College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Geology and Geography

Committee Chair

T. A. Warner

Committee Member

R.Q. Hanham

Committee Member

J. Gardner

Committee Member

remote sensing, aerial photography, Fernow Experimental Forest, change detection

Abstract

Three sets of aerial photographs were employed to assess the historical changes within the US Forest Service (USFS) Fernow Experimental Forest in Parsons, West Virginia. The Fernow Experimental Forest was almost entirely clear-cut in the early part of the 20th century prior to its establishment in the 1930s. The USFS photographs acquired in 1956/58, 1972, and 1985 were the main source of data. The photographs were stereoscopically interpreted to identify mature forest, as well as selective cutting, clear-cutting, and areas that were regenerating following logging. The logging classes included areas of selective cutting, clear-cutting, and areas that were regenerating from both types of logging. Interpretation was compiled on transparencies and transferred to a base map. The base maps were digitized and changes were evaluated within a GIS environment. Results show a steady growth of logged areas from approximately 10% to 35% within the Fernow Experimental Forest between 1956/58 to 1985. Clear-cutting was not visible in the 1956/58 photographs, but is visible in both the 1972 and 1985 photographs. Many sites did not contain mature trees ready for harvesting by 1956/58. Some logged areas within the Fernow Experimental Forest were expanded between 1956/58 and 1972. Regeneration took place in most areas logged by 1956/58, as well as in some areas logged between 1956/58 and 1972. This study proved useful for assessing major changes within the Fernow Experimental Forest. Aerial photography is a good source of data for small areas, such as this one. Extremely small areas of change, approximately 4 acres or less, were more difficult to detect and ancillary data was used to supplement the photographs.

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