Application of remote sensing/GIS in the analysis of hill fire impact on vegetation resources in Hong Kong

Abstract

Hill fire has been a severe threat to vegetation resources in country parks of Hong Kong particularly during dry hill fire seasons. This study analyzes the impact of hill fire on vegetation resources in country parks of Hong Kong using remote sensing and GIS techniques. Image classification is used to map vegetation types with SPOT multispectral and DEM data. A spatial database is developed incorporating multidate SPOT HRV data, DEM, multitemporal maps of hill fire record, drainage, park trails and roads, park facilities and vegetation maps. Overlay is used to examine the association of hill fire, various vegetation resources, topography and other environmental attributes. A logistic model is used to identify fire prone sites.