Towards automated segmentation of forest inventory polygons on high spatial resolution satellite imagery

High spatial resolution satellite imagery, with pixel sizes of one metre or less, are increasingly available. These data provide an accessible and flexible source of information for forest inventory purposes. In addition, the digital nature of these data provides an opportunity for automated and computer-assisted approaches for forest stand delineation to be considered. Specifically, automation has the potential to realize cost savings by minimizing the time required for manual delineation of forest stands; however, inappropriate automation could result in increased costs due to time-consuming revisions of automated delineations. The aim of this research is to present, through example, investigations of an automated segmentation approach for delineating homogeneous forest stands on high spatial resolution satellite imagery. An evaluation of the suitability of IKONOS 1-m panchromatic data for this application is also presented, along with several key issues that must be considered regarding automated segmentation approaches. Key words: forest inventory, segmentation, automation, IKONOS, high spatial resolution satellite, photo interpretation, stand delineation, object