Vegetation Analysis in Kumaun Himalaya using Remote Sensing

Abstract

Vegetation and land use of Kumaun Himalaya was analyzed using remote sensing data. A total of 15 vegetation and land use classes were mapped, of which, eight vegetation types and seven land use categories were identified. Utilizing the knowledge of altitude bound distribution of vegetation digital elevation model (DEM) was used for the post-classification refinements. Forest spreads over 52% of total geographical area, while 48% of the total geographical area is covered with non-forest types including scrub, grassland, plantation, agriculture, water body and snow. Temperate and subalpine broadleaf forest dominated the forest class followed by pine forest. Information generated in present study will provide input to planners for land use planning and natural resources management.
Keywords: DEM, oak forest, vegetation, remote sensing, Uttarakhand