Abstract

LANDSAT is a satellite-based remote sensing system that is capable of photographing great areas of land with high resolution. Much importance is attached to inventorying renewable and nonrenewable natural resources for planning economic and social development. One technique used is thematic mapping. This project provided for the training of Malian scientists in the interpretation of the remote sensing data collected by LANDSAT (Land Satellite) and for the transfer of the technology. At the same time, it enabled thematic maps to be produced from the data to be used for planning purposes connected with land use.

Post-Project Summary

This project was one in a series devoted to the application of remote sensing technology for the production of maps of natural resources of specific areas. Work was undertaken in the Sudan, Bolivia, Tanzania, Bangladesh, and Mali between 1974 and 1979. In this project, researchers investigated the application of remote sensing technology to investigate the Sikasso region of Mali, an area that showed development potential. An advisor from France assisted with a field mission to gather mapping documentation and secondary data of the study zone. The researchers then completed a training session in France that combined theory and practical work on the zone. These results were then verified in Mali during field missions after training was completed. Several maps were produced on geology, hydrography, soil use, forest cover, and agricultural potential.

Recipient Institution(s)