Rapid response tools and datasets for post-fire erosion modeling: Linking remote sensing and process-based hydrological models to support post-fire remediation

M. E. Miller, W. J. Elliot, K. A. Endsley, P. R. Robichaud, M. Billmire

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Post-fire flooding and erosion can pose a serious threat to life, property, and municipal water supplies. Increased peak flows and sediment delivery due to the loss of surface cover and fire-induced changes in soil properties are of great concern to both resource managers and the public. To respond to this threat, interdisciplinary Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Teams are formed to assess potential erosion and flood risks. These teams are under tight deadlines as remediation plans and treatments must be developed and implemented before the first major storms in order to be effective. One of the primary sources of information for making these decisions is a burn severity map derived from remote sensing data (typically Landsat) that reflects fire induced changes in vegetative cover and soil properties. Slope, soils, land cover, and climate are also important parameters that need to be considered when accessing risk. Many modeling tools and datasets have been developed to assist BAER teams, but process-based and spatially explicit empirical models are currently under-utilized compared to simpler, lumped models because they are both more difficult to set up and require spatially explicit inputs such as digital elevation models, soils, and land cover. We are working to facilitate the use of models by preparing spatial datasets within a web-based tool that rapidly modifies model inputs using burn severity maps derived from earth observation data. Automating the creation of model inputs facilitates the wider use of more accurate, process-based models for spatially explicit predictions of post-fire erosion and runoff.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationInternational Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences - ISPRS Archives
EditorsCharles Toth, Thomas Holm, Boris Jutzi
Pages257-263
Number of pages7
Edition1
ISBN (Electronic)9781629934297, 9781629935126, 9781629935201
DOIs
StatePublished - 2014
EventISPRS Technical Commission I Symposium 2014 - Denver, United States
Duration: Nov 17 2014Nov 20 2014

Publication series

NameInternational Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences - ISPRS Archives
Number1
Volume40
ISSN (Print)1682-1750

Conference

ConferenceISPRS Technical Commission I Symposium 2014
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityDenver
Period11/17/1411/20/14

Keywords

  • Databases
  • Forest fire
  • Forestry
  • Hazards
  • Hydrology
  • Land Cover
  • Soil

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