Monitoring Marsh Extent and Vegetation Composition in British Columbia’s South Coast using Remote Sensing and Machine/Deep Learning Models

Coastal salt marshes, such as those in southern British Columbia (BC), offer valuable ecosystem services, including providing habitats for various plant, fish, and bird species, protecting shorelines from storm surges and
erosion, and sequestering and storing carbon to mitigate climate change. However, this low-lying system is under threat due to rising sea levels and human disturbances, leading to significant marsh die-off and ecosystem
degradation in the past few decades. Therefore, it is critical to take action to restore disturbed marshes and conserve local ecosystems. This project was proposed to monitor marsh die-off and restoration using remote sensing (e.g., satellite imaging), which is effective for large-scale and repeated monitoring. Research results are expected to provide more insights into marsh die-off processes, reveal associated ecological and geomorphological mechanisms, and support local restoration efforts by partner organizations.

Faculty Supervisor:

Bing Lu

Student:

Partner:

Ducks Unlimited Canada (BC)

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Finance and Insurance; Other services (except public administration); Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Simon Fraser University

Program: