Using Remote Sensing to Assess the Impact of Sea Level Rise within the Saxis Wildlife Management Area
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Keywords: Saxis Wildlife Management Area, sea level rise, climate change, remote sensing
Abstract Type: Paper Abstract
Authors:
Lillian B Lux, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Chris Schaney, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Mitzy Schaney, University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown
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Abstract
Saxis Wildlife Management Area (SWMA) is located in Accomack County Virginia on the Chesapeake Bay. SWMA is mostly comprised of tidal wetlands encompassing 5,678 acres of land bordered by brackish waters of Beaseley Bay, Pocomoke Sound, and Messongo Creek. Impacts of climate change have increased Chesapeake Bay water temperature by 1.2˚ F and have raised sea level 30 cm over the past century. Sea level is projected to rise an additional 39 cm – 1.5 m within the next 100 years. SWMA and the nearby town of Saxis is approximately 2 m above sea level and are feeling the impact of rising seas. This project uses remote sensing and Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (drones) to map and measure dynamic point landforms at the mouth of Messongo Creek. This research will use historic aerial photography and current drone imagery to identify changes in landforms at Green, Dicks, and Drum Points as they are impacted by rising bay level. This research will enable an understanding of land inundation rates associated with these landforms and will lead to insights on the future of this dynamic environment.
Using Remote Sensing to Assess the Impact of Sea Level Rise within the Saxis Wildlife Management Area
Category
Paper Abstract
