USE OF SPACE IMAGERY IN THE FOREST ECONOMY

This paper provides a broad overview of current Soviet applications of remote sensing in the performance of forest inventories and related valuational studies, and in the production of derivative thematic maps—in particular, the photostatistical method of forest inventory based on interactive computer-assisted interpretation of satellite imagery and large-scale air photos. The ultimate future objective is the formation of a unified remote sensing-geographic information system for forest management and inventory purposes that will encompass the entire forested area of the country. Advances in the use of satellite imagery in the monitoring of forest fires, insect infestations, and rangeland deterioration have also been made since the late 1970s. Translated from: Geodeziya i kartografiya, 1986, No. 4, pp. 30–36.