Evaluating the practical utility of hyperspectral remote sensing imagery: an EAB case study

The emerald ash borer (EAB) (Agrilus planipennis) is an exotic insect pest currently threatening ash species in the Great Lakes region. Because of the potential impact to forests in this area, multiple government agencies are currently focusing their efforts on developing new technologies to detect, monitor, and control this insect. Previous work has shown that hyperspectral remote sensing technologies can map detailed forest health and species abundance across large areas (Pontius et al. 2005a, b). This study examines the capability of a commercially available sensor (SPECTIR VNIR) to map ash decline in Michigan and Ohio (Fig. 1). Specifically, our objectives were to: 1. Develop a field decline rating system that would capture and summarize the range of ash decline symptoms resulting from EAB infestation, including previsual symptoms 2. Locate and measure ground control plots covering a range of ash abundance and health 3. Use hyperspectral remote sensing imagery to predict decline on a landscape scale remote Sensing Imagery