Remote sensing data have become increasingly important for the assessment of water resources. They provide information in an objective and repeatable manner on large areas but are also suitable for small-scale applications. The analysis of satellite data plays an important role for example in water resource management, irrigation planning or disaster control. For the complex challenges in water and land management in Central Asia remote sensing can be a useful method for information retrieval, monitoring and assessment. 
The workshop provides a theoretical background in remote sensing as well as an introduction to specific applications in land and water monitoring. The participants will be trained in using the software ArcGIS 10 with lessons of downloading, visualization and processing of satellite remote sensing data for hydrological modeling. A special focus is set on moderate resolution satellite data (MODIS), land cover classifications (land use, snow cover) and the use of remote sensing based digital elevation models for deriving relevant topographical input parameters of hydrological models. Another focus is on the use of Google Earth as an excellent and easily accessible source of information. The workshop aims at enabling experts from hydrometeorological services, universities and research institutions in Central Asia to use geodata for their specific tasks.

First, an introduction to remote sensing concepts will be given. Several applications will be shown to demonstrate the use of ArcGIS 10 with the extensions Spatial Analyst and 3D Analyst. There will be an alternation of short theoretical modules and problem oriented practical exercises where specific problem solutions in remote sensing, for example river catchment derivation will be discussed. The exercises aim also at analyzing land cover and snow cover maps.
The course concept is prepared to adapt the program to specific requests of the participants. The participants are encouraged to bring GIS and other geodata related to their current work.

For details, please see the course announcement.

The course materials are available at the eLearning platform of the CAWa project: http://elearning.cawa-project.net/moodle/

Aijan Ainabekova

CAIAG Central Asian Institute for Applied Geosciences
Directorate

Timur Frunze rd. 32/2
720027 Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic

phone +996 312 555454(218)
email: a.ainabekova@caiag.kg