The Use of High Altitude Photography As An Improved Data Source For Drainage System Analysis

Abstract

<p> Studies to date involving the network properties of drainage systems have been theoretical in nature; and the environmental implications of these network characteristics have not been exploited to the extent that would appear warranted. This situation exists due to the lack of an accurate data source. Many studies have recognized this. inadequacy of the conventional data sources to meet the necessary requirements of efficiency (in data production and handling), accuracy, consistency and uniformity. </p> <p> The present study demonstrates that high altitude, small scale colour infrared photography is capable of providing drainage network data that fulfill all these basic requirements. Data derived from the three drainage basins, mapped from a variety of data sources, demonstrate three important points. The level of detail obtained from the small scale colour infrared photography far exceeds that available from more traditional data sources. Secondly, these network data are statistica+ly consistent with the traditional data sources. Thirdly, the basin characteristics derived from the high altitude data source show a marked association with the known surficial environments and an expected variation from one surficial environment to another. </p>