In Action
The FRA 2020 Remote Sensing Survey (RSS) strongly emphasized incorporating field knowledge during the image analysis process by ensuring effective participation from the survey countries. The interpretation of the global samples is carried out by national
experts who know the vegetation and land uses. Those experts are trained during regional or national workshops on FRA remote sensing survey methodology, image interpretation as well as on the use of the satellite image interpretation and analysis
software.
35 capacity development workshops were conducted from 2018 to 2021, training more than 800 national experts from 126 countries. Through these workshops, a global network of FRA remote sensing focal points was created. All workshops applied
a learning-by-doing approach and allowed participants with limited knowledge of remote sensing to analyze satellite imagery and collect data consistently throughout the world.
Stories
Insights from the field
The concepts of tree cover and forest are not equivalent.
Satellites can see trees, but local expertise is needed to identify forest land use.
SANDA VILLAGE, Bali, Indonesia
24 June - July 2019
During the workshop, an area with high tree cover was identified close to the village of Sanda (Bali, Indonesia).
At the field visit, the site revealed not to be a forest, but a typical agroforestry system of bananas, coconut, durian, coffee and clove trees.
BAGAMOYO VILLAGE
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
29 July - 3 August 2019
A plot with a clear example of forest loss visible from satellite imagery was visited. The plot was equally divided into two halves, one half composed of natural forest and the other half showing a clearing for cattle grazing purposes. The local farmers confirmed that the clearing had just taken place the year before.
