Field guide for forest mapping with high resolution satellite data

This manual is targeted at guiding the collection of adequate field information in a relatively short time, for calibrating and validating classifications and biophysical parameters derived from satellite images of high spatial resolution for forest monitoring. It aims to support of monitoring deforestation and forest degradation in the context of the UN-REDD (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation) programme. Experience gained from field surveys carried out in conjunction with the Tanzania Forest Service in 2012, 2013 and 2014 in the Pugu Hills Forest Reserve is used to demonstrate the methods of data collection and analysis. The field data collected in this work were used to produce maps of forest cover, basal area and biomass. These maps were transferred to the Tanzania Forest Service to support their forest inventory