Multi- Resolution Satellite Imagery Analysis of Coastal Tundra Vegetation Disturbances Caused by All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs): A Case Study in Teriberka, Russia

The use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) for recreational and other outdoor activities is a relatively recent phenomenon, extending primarily across the last three decades in many arctic communities. One example of growth in ATV use is a place near Teriberka village, Russia. This coastal community has only local roads, so all access to the interior utilizes all-terrain vehicles (ATV). These 4-wheel vehicles are the primary means of tundra traverse and transport in summer by hunters and by village residents. Because of the fragile nature of the tundra and destructive potential of this type of vehicle, extensive damage to different vegetation types, soils, and geomorphological features has occurred. Since most ATV tracks are located in or lead into remote areas, the study of this phenomenon has been very limited. At least four significant research gaps exist. First, there have been few studies carried out using satellite remote sensing techniques in order to detect and map such damages. Second, little is known about the spatial, spectral, and morphological characteristics of ATV tracks. Third, the impacts of vehicular disturbances on surrounding tundra vegetation has not been studied. Fourth, the correlation between carbon flux and vegetation types and between flux and impacted and non-impacted areas has not been explored. Hence, this study is aimed at assessing the feasibility of using satellite imagery with high-spatial resolution to detect tracks from ATVs and establish efficient methods to carry out a large-scale detection and mapping of all tracks and damaged areas within the study area