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Technical Note: Estimation of Micro-Watershed Topographic Parameters Using Earth Observatory Tools
Citation:
Ssegane, H., E. W. Tollner, AND S. C. MCCUTCHEON. Technical Note: Estimation of Micro-Watershed Topographic Parameters Using Earth Observatory Tools. APPLIED ENGINEERING IN AGRICULTURE. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AGRICULTURAL AND BIOLOGICAL ENGINEERS, ST. JOSEPH, MI, 24(6):763-766, (2008).
Impact/Purpose:
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Description:
The study set out to analyze the feasibility of using Earth observatory tools to derive elevations to characterize topographic parameters of slope gradient and area useful in predicting erosion and for natural resources engineering education and instruction. Earth obseravtory tools are geographic information systems that enable remote exploration of the Earth in three dimensions. They are Web-based mapping platforms that overlay satellite imagery, aerial photogrpahy, topographic data, and other GIS data over 3D Earth models. The systems include Google (TM) EArth, Microsoft Virtual Earth, Nd NASA World Wind. Google (TM) Earth is the most common and therefore this analysis explored its feasibility as a screening tool for extracting micro-watershed topographic parameters of slope gradient and area. Data from nine U.S micro-watersheds was used for predicting slope gradient and micro-watershed area. Elevations, areas, and slope gradients derived from Google (TM) Earth data were not significantly different from reported ground measurements. In addition to being powerful 3D observatory tools, earth observatory tools like Google (TM) Earth can serve as useful instruction and screening tools for remotely extracting micro-watershed topographic parameters in many locations, making them valuable resources for enhancing spatial thinking and teaching natural resources engineering.
