Abstract Title
Measuring Habitat Loss of the Cassia Crossbill, Using Remote Sensing Classification Methods, Due to the 2020 Idaho Badger Fire
Abstract
The Cassia Crossbill (Loxia Curvirostra) is a bird that is endemic to Southern Idaho relying on the Lodgepole Pine for food and shelter. During the 2020 Idaho Badger Fire, approximately 90,190 acres of land within the Sawtooth National Forest was burned. Despite limited resources, crews prioritized the protection of a 3,000 acre area that was a known Crossbill habitat. Using remote sensing tools, we attempted to evaluate the total impact on Cassia Crossbill habitats. First, we identified current Lodgepole Pine stands, then through Google Earth Engine and ArcGIS Pro, we used supervised classification to compare satellite imagery from before and after the fire. The data collected displayed the overall health of the Cassia Crossbill habitats in the areas affected by the fire. This information will aid future conservation efforts and raise awareness for the importance of protecting endangered species during disasters.
Measuring Habitat Loss of the Cassia Crossbill, Using Remote Sensing Classification Methods, Due to the 2020 Idaho Badger Fire
The Cassia Crossbill (Loxia Curvirostra) is a bird that is endemic to Southern Idaho relying on the Lodgepole Pine for food and shelter. During the 2020 Idaho Badger Fire, approximately 90,190 acres of land within the Sawtooth National Forest was burned. Despite limited resources, crews prioritized the protection of a 3,000 acre area that was a known Crossbill habitat. Using remote sensing tools, we attempted to evaluate the total impact on Cassia Crossbill habitats. First, we identified current Lodgepole Pine stands, then through Google Earth Engine and ArcGIS Pro, we used supervised classification to compare satellite imagery from before and after the fire. The data collected displayed the overall health of the Cassia Crossbill habitats in the areas affected by the fire. This information will aid future conservation efforts and raise awareness for the importance of protecting endangered species during disasters.