Dynamics of Shifting Cultivation Landscapes in Northern Lao PDR Between 2000 and 2009 Based on an Analysis of MODIS Time Series and Landsat Images

摘要: The rotational nature of shifting cultivation poses several challenges to its detection by remote sensing. Consequently, there is a lack spatial data on the dynamics landscapes regional, i.e. sub-national, or national level. We present an approach based time series Landsat and MODIS landscape metrics delineate landscapes. Our results reveal that land use system still widely dynamically utilized in northern Laos. While overall reduction areas dominated cultivation, some regions also show expansion. A review relevant reports articles indicates policies tend lead while market forces can result both expansion reduction. For better understanding different factors affecting Laos, further research should focus spatially explicit analyses.