Vegetation time series analysis of the Loxahatchee Slough, Palm Beach County, Florida: A GIS incorporating satellite imagery with black and white aerial photography

The Loxahatchee Slough is the largest wilderness island refuge existing in Palm Beach County, Florida. Cultural impacts have altered the hydrology of the area. This study provides a database of historical and geographical information regarding the Slough. Aerial photography and satellite imagery from pre- and post-channelization dates are classified according to vegetation ecosystems. GIS analysis is used to compare these diverse data sets. Changes in hydroperiod are examined, using vegetation as an indicator. Results show a general trend toward dryer hydroperiod vegetation land cover. Since 1979, the Army Corps of Engineers has raised water levels back toward pre-channelization levels, in a portion of the study area known as the Historic Region. Results indicate a positive response, with a net increase of longer hydroperiod vegetation in this region since 1979.