Land Cover Classification System L C C S A guide to utilization of concepts and software application

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This presentation is intended to be an interactive explanatory note to assist the user to quickly and easily understand the basic concepts of the classification system. Prepared by: Louisa J.M. Jansen - Antonio Di Gregorio

Objectives Classification Concepts Conceptual Basis General Concepts For Primarily Vegetated Areas (Semi) Natural Vegetation(Semi) Natural Vegetation: Macropattern, StratificationMacropatternStratification Cultivated Areas For Primarily Non-Vegetated Areas Environmental and Specific Technical Attributes From Classification To Legend From Classification To Legend : Minimal Mapable Area, Mixed Class Minimal Mapable AreaMixed Class Classification Module Legend Module Translator Module Contents This colour with underlining means that it is a hyperlink that will bring you straight to this specific subject!

Objectives

Why land cover? Land cover is one of the most important elements for description and study of the environment. the main resource controlling primary productivity for terrestrial ecosystems can be defined in terms of land (and its cover). land cover is the easiest detectable indicator of human interventions on the land. Land cover is a critical parameter for environmental databases. land cover changes quickly over time. land cover is the basic geographic feature that other environmental applications can use as a reference base. Objectives

Why a new classification? Despite the importance of land cover, an internationally accepted reference base does not exist, as: many classifications are heterogeneous with respect to quality, scale and nomenclature; class definitions are imprecise, ambiguous and/or absent; and some classifications have a limited ability to accommodate the whole range of potential classes. There is considerable need to have a common classification, as: land cover types cross national boundaries; and to facilitate data exchange, a common “language” is required. Objectives

LCCS was created in response to a need for: a harmonized and standardized collection of land cover data; availability of land cover data for a wide range of applications and users; and comparison and correlation of land cover classes. Objectives LCCS is a comprehensive methodology for description, characterization, classification and comparison of any land cover identified anywhere in the world, at any scale.

Classification Concepts

Definition Land cover is the observed (bio)physical cover on the earth’s surface on the earth’s surface. It includes vegetation and man-made features, as well as bare rock, bare soil and inland water surfaces. Classification Concepts

Difference between Classification and Legend -1- ordering or arrangement of objects into groups or sets on the basis of their relationships Classification is defined as the “ordering or arrangement of objects into groups or sets on the basis of their relationships” (Sokal, 1974). It is an abstract representation of the situation in the field, using well-defined diagnostic criteria. Classification Concepts Abstract representation of a classification consisting of a continuum with two gradients: circles and triangles in red and white (Küchler and Zonneveld, 1988). Concrete situation in the field in a particular area (Küchler and Zonneveld, 1988). One should note that not all possible combinations of circles and triangles occur.

Difference between Classification and Legend -2- application of a classification in a particular geographic area Legend is defined as the “application of a classification in a particular geographic area ” (Di Gregorio and Jansen, 1998). Classification Concepts 100% 50% 10% >50m 30m >5m Reference Classification System DEFINED GEOGRAPHIC AREA given scale and data type mapping units derived legend

A priori versus a posteriori classification Classification Concepts CONCRETE FIELD SITUATION A PRIORI CLASSIFICATION A POSTERIORI CLASSIFICATION ADVANTAGES : - HIERARCHICAL ORDER - STANDARDIZATION DISADVANTAGES : - IMPLICIT RIGIDITY OF THE SYSTEM ADVANTAGE : - HIGH DEGREE OF FLEXIBILITY DISADVANTAGES : - DEPENDING ON AREA - NO STANDARDIZATION OR HIERARCHICAL ORDER a priori classification Example of a very general a priori classification based on four classes (triangle in black and white and circle in black and white) representing the field situation below. Due to the generalization of the classes, the user is obliged to make the best fit of one of the hundred possibilities in the field into one of the four classes, which may result in selecting a class that does not represent well the actual situation. a posteriori classification Example of a posteriori classification. The classes fit better the actual situation in the field (the area inside the blue rectangle) but the area described is only a portion of the total.

Conceptual Basis

Underlying Principle Conceptual Basis cover height 100% 50% 10% >50m 30m >5m leaf type leaf phenology evergreen deciduous mixed broadleaved (very large) broadleaved (very small) aphyllous needle leaved natural vegetation specific geographic area Example of description of a land cover using two different underlying principles. The outcome depends on the underlying principle adopted.

Current a priori classifications in relation to flexibility Conceptual Basis high level of standardization low flexibility increasing number of classes understandable list of class names enormous list of class names with unclear or too narrow class boundary limited number of generic classes limited number of generic classes adequate number of detailed classes high flexibility low level of standardization By increasing the number of classes in an a priori system, flexibility will increase. Class boundary definitions are based on very slight differences; this will decrease the level of standardization. Class boundary definitions will be clear and classes will contain aggregated land cover types. However, it has low flexibility. Flexibility that will allow the accommodation of any occurring land cover.

New approach to classification -1- mapability Increasing flexibility while maintaining mapability The classification should be flexible in the sense that it should address the potential for the classification system to describe enough classes to cope with the real world. At the same time flexibility should adhere to strict class boundary definitions that are unambiguous and clear. Basic principle classifiers mapability A land cover class is defined by the combination of a set of independent diagnostic attributes, the so-called classifiers, that are arranged to assure a high degree of mapability, i.e., geographical accuracy. Conceptual Basis

New approach to classification -2- Issues impeding application of the new approach Land cover deals with a heterogeneous set of classes. Therefore one single set of classifiers cannot be used to describe all features. The set of classifiers is tailored to each major land cover feature in order to create meaningful combinations of classifiers. design criteria Furthermore, with the aim of achieving a logical and functional hierarchical arrangement of classifiers, certain design criteria have been applied. Conceptual Basis

Dichotomous Phase The initial Dichotomous Phase of LCCS Conceptual Basis Below, the Dichotomous Phase is shown, consisting of pairs of buttons of which the user must select one. Classifier used: Presence of Vegetation Classifier used: Artificiality of Cover Classifier used: Edaphic Condition

Modular-Hierarchical Phase The subsequent Modular-Hierarchical Phase of LCCS Conceptual Basis The sets of classifiers tailored to the major land cover and hierarchically arranged according to mapability (classifiers presented in dark blue).

Modular-Hierarchical Phase The Modular-Hierarchical Phase of two major land cover types in detail Conceptual Basis The set of land cover classifiers tailored to the major land cover and hierarchically arranged according to mapability. The environmental attributes that influence the land cover. The specific technical attributes. A11. Cultivated and Managed Terrestrial Areas A12. Natural and Semi-Natural Terrestrial Vegetation

Concept for creation of a land cover class Stepwise selection of classifiers that will generate: Boolean Formulaa string of codes, the so-called Boolean Formula; Standard Class Namea Standard Class Name; and Numerical Codea unique Numerical Code. Conceptual Basis Example “Natural and Semi-Natural Terrestrial Vegetation (A12)” : Classifiers Used: Boolean Formula: Standard Class Name: Code: Code:Code: Life Form & CoverA3A10Closed Forest20005 HeightA3A10B2High Closed Forest20006 Spatial DistributionA3A10B2C1Continuous Closed Forest20007 Leaf TypeA3A10B2C1D1Broadleaved Closed Forest20095 Leaf PhenologyA3A10B2C1D1E2Broadleaved Deciduous Forest nd Layer: LF, C, HA3A10B2C1D1E2F2F5F7G2Multi-Layered Broadleaved Deciduous Forest rd Layer: LF, C, HA3A10B2C1D1E2F2F5F7G2Multi-Layered Broadleaved Deciduous F2F5F10G2 Forest With Emergents20630 With each classifier option selected, the string of codes grows, the class name changes and so does the code.

Conceptual Basis What is then LCCS? -1- One could state that LCCS is a new language to describe in a standardized way the different land cover features. As in any language, you have words and a syntax that allow you to create a semantic concept. The different combination of words with a given syntax provides a broad scope of concept generation.

Conceptual Basis classifierswords In LCCS it is the same: the classifiers are the words, the classification rulessyntaxland cover classification rules are the syntax, and the land cover featuresconcepts features are the concepts to be described. classifiers As in a language, the combination of classifiers through classification rules the use of the classification rules provides the possibility of describing a broad range of land cover features. classifiers The combinations made by different users using the same classifiers of the classification system will result in the same land cover class. What is then LCCS? -2-

Conceptual Basis How to create Land Cover Classes in LCCS? -1- The same is true for LCCS, the user has to find the correct combination of classifiers to describe a certain land cover feature. As with using a language, all the concepts exist. The problem is to find the right combination of words to describe things. No pre-defined list exists. The user has to create -one by one- each single class needed. This involves a process of passing from the user’s idea of the class, to the creation of the representation of this idea using a meaningful sequence of classifiers that are able to precisely illustrate this idea of the specific land cover feature.

Conceptual Basis How to create Land Cover classes in LCCS? -2- Basic concept of a land cover class the idea) (the idea) Use of LCCS method (the language) Elaboration of the concept in the codified LCCS language (the concept expression) Trees A3 Closed A10 Height 14-7m B6 Needeleaved D2 Evergreen E1 =A3+A10+B6+D2+E1 trees closed open shrubs herbaceous sparse evergreen broadleaved ? ? ?

Conceptual Basis LCCS is a concise language, it uses the minimum set of classifiers to characterize a land cover feature. WHY? For three main reasons: 1.there is a difference between the processes of classifying and describing a feature; 2.use of the minimum set of classifiers necessary reduces interpretative errors and facilitates homogeneity in interpretation; and 3. characterization of a land cover feature with a minimum set of classifiers will reduce and simplify field verification.

Conceptual Basis For Example: If an elephant needs to be described, all the possible features may be used: Big ears Tusks Trunk Big feet Grey skin Higher than 2.5 m If an elephant needs to be classified, only a few elements should be used, i.e., those that allow a clear identification: Tusks Trunk All other attributes of the elephant can be linked in the database to these two distinctive features.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas -1- When observing plant communities and considering their growth forms, two factors are fundamental: Physiognomy, the overall appearance of the vegetation; and the spatial distribution pattern of growth forms in a plant community Vegetation Structure, which is defined as “the spatial distribution pattern of growth forms in a plant community ” (Küchler and Zonneveld, 1988). The structure describes the individual layers, usually characterized by height and density of the respective growth forms. Conceptual Basis Tree layer Shrubs height

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -2- Natural and Semi-Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Conceptual Basis Life Form The Life Form of a plant is defined by its physiognomic aspect (e.g., Trees, Shrubs, Herbaceous, etc.). Dominance Two criteria need to be considered to determine Dominance: the primary criterion is (1) the uppermost canopy layer with the secondary criterion that (2) the dominant Life Form has a Cover either Closed or Open. The dominant Life Form in this example is Open Trees. The dominant Life Form in this example is Closed Trees.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -3- Natural and Semi-Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Conceptual Basis The dominant Life Form in this example is Closed Shrub because the cover of the trees is sparse. The dominant Life Form in this example is Closed Herbaceous because the cover of the trees is sparse. The dominant Life Form in this example is Open Shrubs. The dominant Life Form in this example is Sparse Herbaceous. Determine, for each of the four examples, the dominant Life Form. Select Closed, Open or Sparse in combination with either Trees, Shrubs or Herbaceous.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -4- Natural and Semi-Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Structural Domains Vegetation is grouped into so-called Structural Domains, which are determined by the presence of characterizing key life forms and their respective cover:  Closed Trees (Forests) : dominated by closed trees (shrubs or herbaceous may be present).  Open Trees (Woodlands) : dominated by Open Trees (shrubs or herbaceous may be present).  Closed Shrubs : dominated by Closed Shrubs (trees can be present but only with sparse cover; herbaceous may be present).  Open Shrubs (Shrubland) : dominated by Open Shrubs(trees can be present, but only with sparse cover; herbaceous may be present).  Grasslands : dominated by Closed or Open Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs (trees and/ or shrubs may be present but only with sparse cover, e.g., Tree or Shrub Savanna ).  Sparse Vegetation : dominated by Sparse life forms.  Lichens/Mosses : dominated by Closed or Open Lichens/Mosses (other life forms absent). Conceptual Basis

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -4- (Semi)Natural Vegetation - Structural Domains overview

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -4a- (Semi)Natural Vegetation - Structural Domains Conceptual Basis

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -4b- (Semi)Natural Vegetation - Structural Domains Conceptual Basis

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -4c- (Semi)Natural Vegetation - Structural Domains Conceptual Basis

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -4d- (Semi)Natural Vegetation - Structural Domains Conceptual Basis

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -4e- (Semi)Natural Vegetation - Structural Domains Conceptual Basis

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -4f- (Semi)Natural Vegetation - Structural Domains Conceptual Basis

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -5a- Natural and Semi-Natural Vegetation (A12) Conceptual Basis Macropattern The Macropattern is the horizontal spatial distribution of vegetation in a certain area. It should not be confused with Cover because that defines the spatial arrangement of Life Forms (e.g., Trees, Shrubs, etc.). Example of Continuous spatial distribution of vegetation (closed forest). Example of Fragmented spatial distribution of patches of vegetation (closed forest). Patch of closed forest.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -5b- Natural and Semi-Natural Vegetation (A12) Conceptual Basis Macropattern reflects an ecological or evolutionary aspect of vegetation (or it shows a human-induced degradational aspect of natural vegetation). Macropattern should be used to give supplementary ecological information and/or to avoid subjective terms like “degraded forest” or similar terminology. Where the application of this concept is too complex or it is felt irrelevant, the user has the possibility to skip this classifier and instead use a standard Mixed Unit.

Conceptual Basis scale  Macropattern is linked with the concept of scale, and consequently with the concept of a Mixed Class. A unit considered fragmented at a certain scale can be continuos at a larger scale. Mixed Class  A unit with macropattern fragmented (linear or cellular) is always a Mixed Class. Fragmented vegetation  At the same time, a Mixed Class (where the dominant class is natural vegetation) is not always Fragmented vegetation. fragmented vegetation  When the classifier Fragmented is used in a mixed class, it implies that the dominant class in the Mixed Class is the fragmented vegetation (for instance, Fragmented Closed Shrubs/Bare Soil). If the dominant class in a Mixed Class is different, the classifier “Fragmented” is redundant and with a different meaning, so it should be avoided (e.g., Bare Soil/Closed Shrubs). Macropattern Technical guidelines for the application of Macropattern in (Semi)Natural Terrestrial Vegetation: -5c-

Conceptual Basis  Macropattern is used to give supplementary ecological information on (Semi)Natural Vegetation.  The following rules should be applied: Fragmented (linear or cellular) Minimal Mapable Area, more than 50% and less than 80% the patches of vegetation are between 1/15 and 1/2 of the Minimal Mapable Area. A vegetation class is Fragmented (linear or cellular) if, inside the Minimal Mapable Area, it covers more than 50% and less than 80% and when the patches of vegetation are between 1/15 and 1/2 of the Minimal Mapable Area. Continuous Minimal Mapable Area, more than 80% of the area more than 50% but less than 80% of the area and the vegetation “patches” are bigger than 50% of the Minimal Mapable Area A vegetation class is Continuous if, inside the Minimal Mapable Area, it covers more than 80% of the area (in this case the unit is a single class) or it covers more than 50% but less than 80% of the area and the vegetation “patches” are bigger than 50% of the Minimal Mapable Area (in this case the unit is a mixed class). Macropattern Technical guidelines for the application of Macropattern in (Semi)Natural Terrestrial Vegetation: -5d-

Conceptual Basis Vegetation patches size usable to apply the classifier fragmented Maximum Minimum VEGETATIONBARE SOIL OR AGRICULTURE Examples of Fragmented vegetation / Bare soil Irregular disposition Regular disposition (tiger bush) Forest with agricultural encroachment Examples where“ Fragmented ” is not applicable: 2 vegetation patches below minimum size (left) and above maximum size (right). minimal mapable unit for natural vegetation used in the Africover Project ( not at the original scale) The Macropattern concept is preferentially used for Woody Life Forms (Trees and Shrubs). Herbaceous Life Forms (Graminoids and Forbs) can have a Macropattern, but this is linked to the absence of Woody Life Forms. Examples: Fragmented Shrubs/Herbaceous (never “Fragmented Herbaceous/Shrubs”) or Fragmented Herbaceous/Bare Soil (this is possible due to the absence of a Woody component). Macropattern Examples of application of the Macropattern concept -5e-

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -6a- Natural and Semi-Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Conceptual Basis Stratification The Stratification describes the layering of the vegetation. This set of classifiers contributes to the structural definition of a vegetation class. For Terrestrial Vegetation (A12) up to three layers can be described. For Aquatic or Regularly Flooded Vegetation (A24) up to two layers. This example shows: a Sparse Tree emergent with Closed Trees with Open to Closed Trees. Try to determine the order for description of these layers!

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -6b- Stratification for (Semi)Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Conceptual Basis Stratification The rule to describe Stratification is as follows: the first Life Form and Cover combination occurring below is the main layer. Closed Trees or Closed Woody vegetation Open Trees or Open Woody vegetation Closed Shrubs Open Shrubs Closed Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs Open Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs Sparse Trees Sparse Shrubs Sparse Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs Decreasing order of dominance

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -6c- Stratification for (Semi)Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Conceptual Basis Second layer Closed Trees Open Trees Closed Shrubs Open Shrubs Closed Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs Open Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs Sparse Trees Sparse Shrubs Sparse Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs If Closed Trees is the main layer, then the following options are valid for 2nd layer.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -6d- Stratification for (Semi)Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Conceptual Basis Second layer Closed Trees Open Trees Closed Shrubs Open Shrubs Closed Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs Open Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs Sparse Trees Sparse Shrubs Sparse Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs If Open Shrubs is the main layer, then the following options are valid for 2nd layer.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -6e- Stratification for (Semi)Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Conceptual Basis Second layer Closed Trees Open Trees Closed Shrubs Open Shrubs Closed Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs Open Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs Sparse Trees Sparse Shrubs Sparse Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs If Open Graminoids is the main layer, then the following options are valid for 2nd layer.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -6f- Stratification for (Semi)Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Conceptual Basis Second layer Closed Trees Open Trees Closed Shrubs Open Shrubs Closed Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs Open Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs Sparse Trees Sparse Shrubs Sparse Herbaceous, Graminoids or Forbs If Sparse Shrubs is the main layer, then the following option is valid for 2nd layer.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -6g- Stratification for (Semi)Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Conceptual Basis This illustrates the layering options for the Life Form Trees in combination with Cover Closed, Open or Sparse. The options for second layer are manifold, but depend on the selected main layer. The third layer options depend on the selections made for first and second layers.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -6h- Stratification for (Semi)Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Conceptual Basis This illustrates the layering options for the Life Form Shrubs in combination with Cover Closed, Open or Sparse. The second layer options are many, but sometimes depend also on the classifier Height. The third layer options depend upon first and second layers selected.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -6i- Stratification for (Semi)Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Conceptual Basis HERBACEOUS, GRAMINOIDS, FORBS CLOSEDOPENSPARSE HEIGHT TREES MACROPATTERN LEAF TYPE LEAF PHENOLOGY SHRUBS SPARSE SHRUBS HEIGHT SPARSE HEIGHT FIRST LAYER - FIRST AND SECOND LEVEL SECOND LAYER THIRD LAYER not influencing the layering not influencing, the layering; can be skipped not influencing the layering not influencing the layering LAYERING CONDITIONS This illustrates the layering options for the Life Form Herbaceous or Graminoids or Forbs in combination with Cover Closed, Open or Sparse. The second layer options are limited The third layer comprises one option only.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -7- Cultivated and Managed Areas (A11 and A23) Conceptual Basis Life Form The Life Form of a plant is defined by its physiognomic aspect (e.g., Trees, Shrubs, Herbaceous, etc.). Dominance Two criteria need to be considered to determine Dominance : the primary criterion is the uppermost canopy layer, with the secondary criterion of marginality, i.e., the crop should cover at least 15% of the area and/or return the highest economic revenue. If the cereal crop would return the highest revenue then it is the main crop though it is not the uppermost canopy layer.

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -8- Cultivated and Managed Areas (A11 and A23) Conceptual Basis Spatial Distribution The horizontal Spatial Distribution of the cultivated fields can be specified into: Continuous: a continuum of more than 50% of cultivated fields. Scattered Clustered: percentage of fields is more than 20 but less than 50%. Scattered Isolated: percentage of fields is more than 10 but less than 20%. Cultivated Fields (Semi)Natural Vegetation

Concepts for Primarily Vegetated Areas: -9- Cultivated and Managed Areas (A11 and A23) Conceptual Basis Crop Cover Crop Density The Crop Cover or Crop Density can be used to describe the spatial distribution of crop growth forms. It applies to the main crop described. Description of crop cover depends in this example on which crop is identified as main crop! Description of crop cover in this example is clear as there is only one crop, comprising a permanent life form. If the palm trees are the main crop, then the crop cover options for permanent life forms are valid; if the cereal crop is the main crop, the options for temporary life forms are valid.

Concepts for Primarily Non-Vegetated Areas: -1- Artificial Surfaces and Associated Areas (B15) Bare Areas (B16) Conceptual Basis The density of the cover and structure are used as parameters for description, thereby taking a “structural-physiognomic” approach, as for Primarily Vegetated Areas. Surface Aspect Surface Aspect can be regarded as descriptor of the materials. Elements of cover can be described using modifiers, such as density for Urban Areas.

Concepts for Primarily Non-Vegetated Areas: -2- Artificial Waterbodies, Snow and Ice (B27) Natural Waterbodies, Snow and Ice (B28) Conceptual Basis Physical Status The Physical Status is used as parameter for description of the form in which water is found. Persistence The concept adopted puts emphasis on the temporal aspect of water, snow or ice. Persistence describes the duration that water, snow or ice cover the surface. Depth Depth can be described to indicate whether or not the maximum rooting depth for aquatic plants, i.e., 2 m, is exceeded or not. Sediment Load The suspended Sediment Load can be described as it influences the cover and implies other environmental aspects.

Environmental and Specific Technical Attributes Conceptual Basis Environmental Attributes: these are attributes that are not inherent features of land cover but may influence land cover (e.g., landform, lithology, soils, climate, altitude, erosion, etc.). They can be added to the land cover class as a further characterization of the land cover itself, rather than to add a new data layer. Specific Technical Attributes: these attributes refer to the technical discipline of the major land cover type. Floristic Aspect Floristic Aspect for (Semi)Natural Vegetation (A12 and A24) Crop Type Crop Type for Cultivated Areas (A11 and A23) Salinity Salinity for Waterbodies (B27 and B28)

From Classification To Legend

Minimal Mapable Area Concept -1- Classification legend Classification is an abstract representation of the situation in the field using a particular set of diagnostic criteria, whereas a legend is the application of the classification in a particular area using a defined mapping scale and particular data set. Minimal Mapable Area The Minimal Mapable Area concept is applied by cartographers when addressing the smallest area that can be shown on a map. The concept is therefore scale-dependent and not related to classification. The concept of one single mapable area is generally applied. Features with a difference in importance follow the same rules. It would be more logical to define a set of different sizes for various features with differing importance (Di Gregorio, 1991). From Classification To Legend

Minimal Mapable Area Concept -2- The flexibility of LCCS allows the introduction of the concept of a variable minimal mapable area. From Classification To Legend B15 B27 A11 A23 A24 A12 B16 B28 Variable Minimal Mapable Areas as used by the Africover - East Africa Project, Nairobi (not displayed at original scale).

Occurrence of Mixed Mapping Units Mixed Mapping Units In the Classification, all classes are unique and no Mixed Mapping Units are considered. Mixed Mapping Units are cartography related. A Mixed Mapping Unit occurs in a legend and is characterized by two or more separate single land cover classes as defined in the classification system. The conditions governing their utilization are that within the Minimal Mapable Area, two or more land cover classes are present, which can be: in a spatially separate entity; or in an intricate mixture. The class names sequence in a mixed unit represents dominance. From Classification To Legend

LCCS Software Application Classification Module

Overview of the software application Classification Module build up legend edit classes create user-defined land cover classes display legend save and retrieve print export FIELD DATA MODULE standardized general field data collection specific field data collection automatic extraction of land cover class from field data saving of field data in synthetic form print and export TRANSLATOR MODULE translation of external classifications into LCCS similarity of external single classes through LCCS comparison of two external classifications through LCCS comparison of two LCCS classes all classifiers and attributes glossary conditions to create land cover classes database of all possible classes, including name, code and description images and interpretation database CLASSIFICATION MODULE LEGEND MODULE

Purpose The Classification Module allows the user to define land cover classes according to two Phases: Dichotomous Phase an initial Dichotomous Phase where the user derives the main land cover type; followed by Modular-Hierarchical Phase a subsequent Modular-Hierarchical Phase where a land cover class is defined by determining one classifier at a time. Selection of classifiers at a high level may have consequences for options available at lower levels. At any level within these Phases, a land cover class can be formed comprising its Boolean Formula, numerical code and class name. Classification Module

Dichotomous Phase The initial Dichotomous Phase of LCCS Classification Module Click one option of each pair of buttons. If the level of information needed or available to determine a land cover class is very limited, the user can select the appropriate choice(s) and a land cover class will be formed that can be stored by clicking the 2nd upper right button. Or immediately identify to which major land cover type the class will belong by clicking directly on a button with the arrow.

Modular-Hierarchical Phase The subsequent Modular-Hierarchical Phase of LCCS Classification Module The so-called Environmental Attributes are presented in purple and are not hierarchically arranged; the Specific Technical Attribute is presented in green. The sets of classifiers tailored to the major land cover and hierarchically arranged according to mapability (classifiers presented in dark blue).

Modular-Hierarchical Phase Modular-Hierarchical Phase: classifiers and attributes Land Cover Classifiers are hierarchically arranged according to mapability, i.e,. geographical accuracy, at the top levels. Environmental Attributes are not hierarchically arranged and are shown at the intermediate levels. Specific Technical Attribute is shown at the bottom. Classification Module The hierarchically arranged land cover classifiers over different levels at the top (in dark blue). Followed by a set of Environmental Attributes (in purple). The Specific Technical Attribute at the bottom (in green). I II III IV I II

Modular-Hierarchical Phase Modular-Hierarchical Phase: classifiers in detail To proceed, click the upper left button (“Life Form and Cover ” in the example below). A new window will open, with a set of options. Classification Module The classifier Life Form is the first one to be determined. I II III IV

Modular-Hierarchical Phase Modular-Hierarchical Phase: classifiers in detail Classification Module Selection of an option of the classifier Life Form is made by clicking the appropriate button. From the classifier Life Form, the option Trees has been selected. From the classifier Cover the option Closed has been selected. From the classifier Height several options have become automatically disabled.

Modular-Hierarchical Phase Modular-Hierarchical Phase: classifiers in detail Classification Module The classifier Life Form is used to illustrate some features. The options of the classifier are mutually exclusive, i.e., the user can select only one option. Furthermore, this particular classifier has a more general level comprising Woody, Herbaceous or Lichens/Mosses, followed by a more specific level comprising Trees or Shrubs; Forbs or Graminoids; and Lichens or Mosses. Modifiers There are also options that further modify a classifier option, the so-called Modifiers, and they immediately follow a classifier option (e.g., for Forbs, Rooted or Free-floating, in bright blue).

Modular-Hierarchical Phase Modular-Hierarchical Phase: modifiers in detail Classification Module Modifiers The Modifiers further modify a classifier option and they immediately follow a classifier option. The selection of Modifiers is optional! The use of Modifiers will generate: a separate Boolean Formula; a distinct numerical code that follows the classifier code and is separated from it by a hyphen; and a change to the standard name. The classifier Leaf Phenology is used to illustrate some features. Selection of Evergreen in combination with the Leaf Type option Broadleaved disables the modifier Mixed (lower left). The selection of “ Semi- ” in the example generates a distinct Map Code separated by a hyphen from the classifier code (e.g., 4987); the modifier code is displayed separately (e.g., E3). In the standard name the term “Semi-” appears attached to the classifier option Evergreen.

Modular-Hierarchical Phase Modular-Hierarchical Phase: attributes in detail -1- Environmental Attributes The user is free to add appropriate choices of Environmental Attributes in any order to the land cover class. Use of attributes will result in: a separate string of codes separated from the classifier and optional modifiers by a hyphen; no alteration of the numerical code; and no change in the standard name, as these choices follow the standard name and each choice refers back to the attribute itself. Specific Technical Attribute Use of the Specific Technical Attribute will further define the land cover class using the related discipline. Use of the attribute has the same results as Environmental Attributes. Classification Module

Modular-Hierarchical Phase Modular-Hierarchical Phase: attributes in detail -2- Classification Module The Environmental Attributes are listed below the standard Land Cover Class name. The Environmental Attributes codes are listed separately.

LCCS Software Application Legend Module Legend: Forest Woodland Tree Crop Urban Area

Purpose to store land cover classes identified in a hierarchical structure The Legend Module allows the user to store land cover classes identified in a hierarchical structure that groups classes according to the main land cover type and its so-called structural domains. The Legend usually contains only a subset of the Classification, i.e., those classes that are applicable in the area (to be ) interpreted or mapped. The Legend also offers possibilities of displaying, editing and adding user-defined attributes to a land cover class. Information can be saved, printed, imported or exported in various formats. Legend Module

How to create a Legend in LCCS? If classes have been created in the Classification Module, these can be written to the Legend Module. The user can click a special button: upon which a small window opens in which the user has to select one option. If classes have been saved in the Legend the following button in the Classification Module will bring the user to the newly created Legend in the Legend Module: Legend Module The question asked in this window relates directly to application of classification in a specific area. If the created land cover class does not occur alone in the minimal mapable area, select Mixed, after which the second and possibly third class need to be defined. The order of land cover classes in a Mixed Unit reflects dominance.

How to add User-defined Attributes? Land cover classes can be “cloned” in order to add specific user- defined attributes to the standard class. A user may want to further define a classifier and/or attribute already used, or add a new attribute. A standard set of clone options is provided. Legend Module The Type of Clone to be made is selected in this window. The result is a code added to the Boolean code (e.g., (1) in the example above) The user- defined code is specified in this window, as well as its meaning.

Edit and Display Display of a created Legend shows a standardized hierarchical order with the classes under their Structural Domain within the main land cover type. Legend Module User’s Label Edit allows the user to add a User’s Label that may be a common name or a name derived from an existing legend. Description Furthermore, Description can be used to add more information on the class. In this example each class has a User’s Label that will also be shown in Display.

Standard Description The Standard Description for each land cover class gives the user a better insight into the classifiers used and structure of the class than can be inferred from the standard name alone. Classes are hierarchically ordered according to Structural Domains of the main land cover types. Legend Module The main land cover type The User’s Label. The Structural Domain.

Classifiers Used This option gives the user the possibility to interpret what the codes of the Boolean Formula of the land cover classes mean. Combination of numerical codes and Boolean Formulae will allow GIS users to re-select LCCS data. Legend Module The Classifier Code and its Label are displayed. Please note that codes can appear more than once with a different meaning! Therefore the code should always be combined with the numerical code of the class to form a unique combination.

LCCS Software Application Translator Module Legend: Forest Woodland Tree Crop Urban Area Legende: Savane herbacée avec d’arbres Couvert herbacé fermé Culture pluviale

Importance of a common “language” Translator Module INCREASING LEVEL OF SPECIFIC (SUBJECT-RELATED) DETAILS Specific user creating the database (e.g., forest timber assessment) poor use of the database made by other type of user due to too general information. poor or absent use of the database made by other type of user due the difficulty in translation of already subject specific classes. use of the database made by other type of user is absent. Classes too much specific subject oriented. Same specific user utilizing the database use of database from other type of user linked to the amount of classifiers used full use of the database made by other type of user use of the database made by other type of user related to the classifiers needed. Same specific user utilizing the database Specific user creating the database (e.g., forest timber assessment) LCCS standard classifiers LCCS user -defined classifiers

Purpose LCCS can act as a reference base in which correlation between classifications and/or legends becomes possible. The Translator Module offers the possibility to: translate existing systems into LCCS language; assess similarity of classes using LCCS as the reference base; compare classes of translated systems, using LCCS as the reference base, at the level of individual classifiers used; and compare LCCS classes, which may be useful when comparing preliminary classes with validated land cover classes from field surveys. Translator Module

How to translate classes? The user can create a Legend by creating the appropriate classes in the Classification Module and saving them into the Legend Module. The user can import these classes into the Translator Module, or by direct input (providing that the LCCS numerical codes corresponding with the classes are known!). Import The Import facility in the Translator Module allows the user to import classes one by one. Retrieve From Legend The Retrieve From Legend option will allow import of classes from the Legend Module. Import Direct input of classes is carried out by filling the appropriate boxes in the Import window. Translator Module

Retrieve From Legend Translator Module The sequence of actions to retrieve a class from the Legend will be shown below. 1. Identify the land cover class and highlight it. 2. Click the Select as 1st button. If there is a second class because it is a Mixed Unit, repeat step 1 followed by clicking the Select as 2nd button. 3. The selected class(es) will appear in this box. 4. At the bottom of the window are a set of boxes to be filled: (1) ID with a unique numerical code; (2) Code with a two-letter code that refers to (3) Ext. Classification Name that contains the full name; and (4) Class Name in Legend, in which the original class name should be typed. 5. If all the boxes have been filled, press Export.

Import Translator Module The sequence of actions to directly import a class will be shown below. 5. The original class code is typed in this box. This needs to be a unique number. 1. A unique ID needs to be entered. 2. A unique two- letter Code needs to be entered. 3. A Class Name needs to be typed. 4. The external classification name is typed. 6. Type the LCCS Numerical Code in the GIS Code Class 1 box and the Environmental code in the ENV Attributes Class 1 box to the right. If the original class comprises more than one LCCS class, the second pair of codes is typed in the second set of boxes to the right (follow the yellow arrows). 7. Click Process class 1 (and Process class 2 if there is one), to generate the classifier string, main land cover type and class name, then Save.

Similarity Assessment Translator Module 1. Highlight the appropriate Classification Name. 2. Highlight the appropriate Class. 3. Use the set of arrows to select the Reference Class. Press the Compare button. 1. Open the Similarity Assessment window. 4. Set the thresholds for similarity. 5. Select Empty Report to make sure that it contains no previous information. Select Process followed by Preview Report. 3. Set the classification that will be compared with the Reference Class. 2. Click the Reference Class button to view the selected class.

Comparison of land cover classes Translator Module Display will show the two classes, their classifiers and modifiers to be compared. Compare will show the results in three different colours: Blue for identical classifier options; Red for classifiers that can be compared but the selected options cannot be compared; and Yellow for classifiers that cannot be compared.

Contact Address If you have any questions concerning LCCS, please write to the following address: Chief, Environment and Natural Resources Service (SDRN) Sustainable Development Department FAO - Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Viale delle Terme di Caracalla Rome, ITALY THE END