• Rubin, Fay
  Complex Systems Research Center, University of New Hampshire
  
• Justice, David
  Complex Systems Research Center, University of New Hampshire
  

In 1993, the New Hampshire Legislature authorized the development of a statewide inventory of timber harvest clear cut areas (Chapter 198, Session Laws of 1993). The legislation directed Complex Systems Research Center (CSRC), University of New Hampshire, to conduct the inventory by utilizing available digital satellite imagery, supplemented by other readily accessible data sources. The project was accomplished in three phases:

• pilot phase to evaluate alternative approaches/methodologies for the mapping of clear cuts
• application of selected methodology to develop a statewide inventory
• accuracy assessment of the statewide inventory

The results of the pilot phase were reported in a document submitted by CSRC in August, 1994. This report presents the results of the second and third phases of the project. The development of the statewide clear cut inventory involved the integration of image processing techniques, geographic information system (GIS) analysis, global positioning system (GPS) data, and standard field work. Image processing tools were applied to the satellite data to enable the classification and delineation of the clear cuts. GIS tools provided reference data, aided in the feature delineation process, supported the accuracy assessment efforts, and enabled the production of final tables and map products. A GPS receiver was used to navigate to selected field sites. Finally, standard field techniques were used in the assessment of potential clear cut sites and in the accuracy assessment efforts. The authors believe that this project will provide a valuable model for the application of computerized mapping tools to other natural resource inventory/management efforts in the state.