Satellite Monitoring of Changes in the Type of Grassland Use and Advancement of Grass Mowing

Abstract

In this study, we attempted to monitor the changes in the type of grassland use and advancement of grass mowing utilizing satellite data. On the satellite images acquired during the growing seasons, grasslands just after mowing showed the distinctive reflectance characteristics. Using these characteristics, we analyzed the changes in grassland-use and advancement of pasture mowing on Konsen plain, Hokkaido during a decade. This analysis clarified that of grasslands area for grazing decreased, and mowing time became earlier in the study site. Ground survey of the study site supported the result of satellite monitoring. These results prove the usefulness of satellite remote sensing for monitoring the grassland management.