Description:

The land use classification images are a description of the types of vegetation (e.g. agricultural crops) growing in North Dakota at a specified time period.The following land use classification data were processed and interpreted from LANDSAT satellite images captured between May and August. Different types of crops and plants reflect light uniquely, giving detectable "spectral signatures" that are used to produce land use classification maps. The images show the spatial distribution of natural vegetation, agricultural crops and other land use. The image files are made available and distributed on CD-ROM (currently free of charge) in ERDAS Imagine .gis and .img file formats. The images and the metadata are considered to be in the public domain and hence under no copyright restrictions.

Format:

Because of the large file size of the original datasets the images published online have been compressed using JPEG format. During the compression process there is potential for change in pixel values therefore caution should be exercised in using the JPEG files displayed on this site. Use of original images (distributed on CD-ROM) in any serious projects is highly recommended.

Data and Images:

Annual land use datasets are available for 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003. The land use classification image files are made available and distributed at state, subregion, and county level. The subregion boundaries are defined by the multicounty program units of North Dakota State University extension service. To view a specific image file (JPEG format) select from the pop-up menus below. County level land use classification datasets are available for a sample of counties, other counties will be made available soon. To check out the county data currently available online see the county index map for details.

To order a CD or to request land use image files for specific counties or regions to be posted online please contact us at the following: Phone: 701-231-6551, 701-239-5306; Fax: 701-231-1008 or send e-mail to project contact.