Study on Forest Change Detection in Eastern Forest
by Remote Sensing Technique
Thanomsri Rangsikanbhum*,
Pongsak Polsena**,
Chaowalit Silapathong*,
Dararat Disbunchong*
* National Research Council of Thailand
196 Phahonyothin Rd., chatuckak, Bangkok 10900
** Department of Royal Forestry
Phahonyothin Rd., Chatuckak, Bangkok 10900
Abstract
The project was funded by the NRCT remote sensing research fund. The objectives of the study were to use satellite data to study forest changes during 1982-1993, and to produce land use map of forest encroachment area and its vicinities. The target area covered the Eastern Forest and its surroundings including Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildife Sancturary, Khao Soi Dow Wildlife Sanctuary, Khao Khitchakoot national Park, and Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National park with a total area of 9,584.58 km
2. The study was conducted by using landsat TM bands 3,5 and 4 images acquired in 1993, 1988 and the map of 1982 existing forest, by the method of visual interpretation and Geographic Information System (GIS). The results showed that during the period of 1982-1993 forest was decreased depletion rate during 1982-1988 was as high as 101.12 km
2 per year. While that of 1988-1993 was 30.86 km
2 per year. Land use map of forest encroachemtn area and its vicinities was also produced with a total of 13 categories namely: evergreen forest, mixed deciduous forest, dry dipterocarp forest, forest plantation, deteriorated forest, paddy field, rubber plantation, field crops mixed orchard, urban area, water resource, road, and other.
Introduction
Eastern Forest is the only forest area remaining in eastern region of Thailand. The Forest covers some parts of 5 provinces namely : Chacherngasao, Sakaew, Cholburi, Rayong, and Chanthaburi. Another name of the Forest is therefore "Contiguous Forest Connecting 5 Eastern Provinces". Eastern forest area was decreased rapidly, especially during the last decade. Forest encroachment areas were found both along the Forest border and among dense forest. Eastern Forest management plan was therefore necessary to be set up to protect such the important forest. Information of this area were also needed including: existing forest area and map, forest change, and land use map of the surrounding areas. To derive such information, remote sensing and geographic information system were applied. The objectives of the study were : to assess and map existing forest area, to detect forest changes during 1982-1993, and to produce land use map by using remote sensing and GIS techniques.
