Land cover mapping and monitoring from NOAA AVHRR data in Bangladesh

Abstract NOAA AVHRR HRPT data consisting of two time frames i.e., 1985–86 and 1992–93 were analysed to determine the status of major land cover types of Bangladesh and to monitor change. The data were radiometrically corrected to spectral reflectance and mapped to a consistent Plate Caree projection followed by cloud masking and country masking. The satellite data and the methodology adopted was found to be useful for assessment and monitoring of major land cover types and their dynamics at small scale. The nature and pattern of land cover change derived from the analysis forms a valuable resource for planners and decision-makers in formulating policies, allocating scarce resources and in evaluation of the practical effects of land use policies.