Land Cover change analysis is important for understanding long term ecological changes to the earth's planet. In order to understand those changes the earth's surface needs to be analyzed. Statistics about the changes in the earth's surface are derived from datasets that are developed using remote sensing tools.

What are remote sensing tools? 

https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-remote-sensing-and-what-it-used

With the data created from remotely sensed tools, maps can be generated to help visualize changes and in some cases make a prediction about future land cover trends. An example of a web-based map that was derived from remotely sensed data can be found here: 

Atlas of Forest and Landscape Restoration Opportunities

https://www.wri.org/data/atlas-forest-and-landscape-restoration-opportunities 

In this activity, two maps are created using ArcOnline software:

• One map uses data derived from remotely sensed data over the last several years. 

• The second map uses data that is a prediction of the land cover changes. 

• These maps are then combined into a web-app that uses a swipe tool that shows the changes in land cover. 

The maps and apps were produced using ArcOnline software: https://hws.maps.arcgis.com/

The big question:  

How can mapping tools be used to study and understand land cover changes? 

Land Cover Legend:

https://hws.maps.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=afeaa714dd8b4553bc92898002abf145

Mapping resources to explore and consider:

• https://www.wri.org/data/atlas-forest-and-landscape-restoration-opportunities 

References:

Source: 

https://ebrary.ifpri.org/digital/api/collection/p15738coll2/id/15847/download 

https://rightlivelihood.org/the-change-makers/find-a-laureate/yacouba-sawadogo/ 

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/farmers-in-sahel-beat-back-drought-and-climate-change-with-trees/