GIS 4035 Final Project
As part of my final project, I delved into the intricate details of urban development around Lake Tahoe between 1999 and 2010. By analyzing satellite imagery, I aimed to understand the extent of urban expansion and its potential impact on the region's delicate ecosystem. However, the analysis proved to be more complex than anticipated. The diverse terrain, characterized by dense forests, rocky outcrops, and water bodies, presented significant challenges in accurately classifying land cover types. Traditional image classification techniques struggled to differentiate between similar spectral signatures, particularly in areas with mixed land cover. Contrary to expectations, the analysis revealed that there was actually a net loss of dwellings in the Lake Tahoe Basin during this period. This unexpected finding suggests that factors such as redevelopment, conversion to non-residential uses, or even population decline may have influenced the overall urban landscape. While this initial...