| This thesis presents research on the use of time integrated Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) data, in conjunction with precipitation, and minimum and maximum temperature to determine if high temporal resolution remotely sensed data can be used to record phenological characteristics of arid scrublands in the Mojave Desert, California. Study sites were selected based on a geographic information system analysis and field reconnaissance. Temporal, spatial, and statistical methods were used to analyze data from August 2001 to June 2003.; The results of this study indicate that MODIS NDVI provides realistic results when monitoring the response of vegetation phenology to precipitation. The seasonal pattern of MODIS NDVI was ecologically consistent with vegetation dynamics described in previous Mojave Desert research, and onset of greenup, peak NDVI, and duration of the growing season were dependent on the timing and quantity of precipitation and synchronized to seasonal precipitation thresholds. |
