Color Infrared Photography for Resource Management : Unique Attributes Improve Vegetation Mapping and Assessment

1990

S. 12-17

5 Abb.

Unselbständiges Werk

200038326

No single aerial photographic film meets the needs of all resource managers under all situations. CIR should not be selected just because it is different; users must decide what information is needed and then select the proper film and camera combination. Color infrared film is often superior when vegetation indentification is important; it usually offers superior color contrast between plant species and between plants of different health and vigor. Natural-color film shows more detail in shadows and is more appropriate under cloud cover or for dark slopes. Color infrared photography, when used in conjunction with good field work and appropriate equipment, can be a valuable managerial tool for mapping vegetation types and to assess vegetation health and condition. Many forest and range resource managers now recognize that CIR folm can provide superior results when inventorying, mapping or assessing vegetation vigor.