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The Proposed Walpole Wilderness Area is currently unmapped in regards to geomorphological classification within wetlands, with little information collected regarding organic rich soils. As these areas are particularly vulnerable to fire events, it is foreseen that classification and identification of wetland areas and the associated organic rich soils, will allow the increased protection of these areas in the event of prescribed burning or wildfire suppression events. Taking current datasets, and combining these with photographic interpretation, it is hoped that an efficient and accurate dataset can be created. This dataset will clearly delineate between uplands, inundated and waterlogged areas, and swamps and basins, with particular reference made to topographical position and period of inundation within the classification system. Field sampling and site verification will allow the accuracy of the proposed classification and identification procedures to be determined, and the subsequent classification of wetland areas and organic rich soils.After thorough investigation of available datasets such as soils, vegetation and geomorphology in conjunction with photo interpretation and satellite data classification, it is evident that organic rich soils cannot be mapped remotely. Without additional resources the project was not able achieved its stated aim. The resultant dataset is a map of possibe peat sites with structural vegetative characteristics that can be used for future on-ground validation. Further field visits and site sampling are required to provide a key to better understand the differentiation of wetland types.Photo interpretation has been extremely useful in isolating flat systems from surrounding upland areas and provided a preliminary classification of wetlands. Satellite data then provided a key to hydroperiod but the subsequent creation of a classification key will be required to enable the determination of wetland class, and isolate the organic rich soils. This will lead to the creation of a robust and effective dataset which can be used not only in conjunction with the management of the Proposed Walpole Wilderness Area, but which also can be projected into other parts of the Region and be used for specific management roles such as fire management and suppression.
License: Creative Commons Non-Commercial (Any)
Tags: Peat Wetlands, Walpole Wilderness, Wetlands
Contact: dbca_gis@dbca.wa.gov.au |