Objective:
1) Develop and test cost-effective, high resolution airborne electronic imaging systems (i.e., multispectral and hyperspectral) for natural resources management, 2) evaluate airborne and satellite imagery for mapping giant reed infestations, and develop a GIS (Geographic Information System) database to document the distribution of giant reed in the Rio Grande Basin of Texas, 3) assess airborne multispectral and hyperspectral and satellite imagery for detecting and mapping saltcedar, and quantify its distribution using spatial information technologies in Texas and New Mexico, and 4) determine the feasibility of using spatial information technologies for detecting, mapping, and monitoring salt cedar, Brazilian pepper, and aquatic weeds (giant reed, hydrilla, giant salvinia, and waterhyacinth) in Texas.

Approach:
Airborne multispectral and hyperspectral imaging systems will be evaluated for detecting and distinguishing noxious weeds on rangelands and in waterways, diseases in citrus, and effluent discharges in two river systems in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas. Airborne multispectral and satellite imagery for mapping giant reed infestations will be evaluated and a GIS data system will be developed to document the distribution of giant reed in the Rio Grande Basin of Texas. Airborne multispectral and hyperspectral imagery will be used for detecting and mapping saltcedar, and quantify its distribution using spatial information technologies in Texas and New Mexico. The feasibility of using spatial information technologies will be determined for detecting, mapping, and monitoring Brazilian pepper and aquatic weeds (hydrilla, giant salvinia, and waterhyacinth) in Texas.