Mapping Soils, Crops, and Rangelands by Machine Analysis of Multi-Temporal ERTS-1 Data

ERTS-1 data, obtained during the period 25 August 1972 to 5 September 1973 over a range of test sites in the Central United States, have been used for identifying and mapping differences in soil patterns, species and conditions of cultivated crops, and conditions of rangelands. Multispectral scanner data from multiple ERTS passes over certain test sites have provided the opportunity to study temporal changes in the scene. Geometric correction was performed on the digital data for several dates and for several test sites. This made much easier the task of locating specific data points and of comparing the analytical results with other maps and data sources. Multispectral classifications delineating soils boundaries in different test sites compare well with existing soil association maps prepared by conventional means. Spectral analysis of ERTS data was used to identify, map, and make areal measurements of wheat in western Kansas. Multispectral analysis of ERTS-1 data provided patterns in rangelands which can be related to soils differences, range management practices, and the extent of infestation of grasslands by mesquite (Prosopis fuliflora) and juniper (Juniperus spp.