Near-real-time video systems for rangeland assessment

This paper reviews the current capability of video imagery for rangeland management assessment. Three video systems are described and evaluated: 1) a black-and-white four-band system with visible/near-infrared (0.4-1.1 μm) sensitivity, 2) a selectable three-band color system, and 3) a black-and-white monoband system with midinfrared (1.45-2.0 μm) sensitivity. These systems have provided near-real-time imagery that could be useful to detect differences among many variables such as plant species, phytomass levels, fertilized and drought-stressed grass, heavy grazing, and burned areas. The computer compatibility of video imagery also has been demonstrated. Finally, results have shown that video systems may have considerable application to integrate the above-listed variables for rangeland resource management assessment.