We investigate methods for detecting trends associated with ecosystem properties in time series of airborne or space borne imagery.  We are interested in monitoring ecosystem attributes in around protected areas. We call this research program: "Parktrends".

In Parktrends, we use continuous change detection algorithms (automated or semi-automated) to flag abrupt changes in the landscape regarding plant community attributes such as plant canopy cover or surface moisture. We also investigate spatio-temporal clustering methods for depicting areas where those changes concentrate (hotspots or coldspots). 

The "parktrends" platform is currently engaged with mapping projects in protected areas of the Yucatan Peninsula and the South American Andes and also in specific areas of interest in West Texas. See the 'sites' page for examples. 

For more information, contact the GST lab's PI Dr. Carlos Portillo-Quintero at carlos.portillo@ttu.edu.