| Urban green infrastructure development is critical in conserving natural ecosystems in cities and their surroundings. This study aimed to review and analyze the land use history with a view to developing an urban green infrastructure management plan for the Scotlandville area, using GIS and remote sensing technologies. The data for this study were collected from analysis of historical aerial photographs, historical and current topographic maps, current satellite images (DOQQs), and field studies. The specific objectives of this study were to:(1) determine historical changes in urban forest development in Scotlandville from 1941 to 2005, using GIS and remote sensing technologies, (2) explore the role of GIS and remote sensing in planning for urban ecosystems, (3) determine the drivers of land cover change, (4) develop a management plan for the Scotlandville area that includes green infrastructure and public recreation opportunities. Topographic maps and aerial photographs were scanned and georeferenced. Features were digitized to create layers for each feature. The layers were then prepared by clipping and developing overlays and unions using GIS algorithms. Using GIS algorithms, the features were analyzed for changes in land cover. GIS was used as a tool for decision criteria and study components. The study revealed that, historically, Scotlandville land use was dominated by agriculture. Historical agricultural land provided opportunities for development of street trees, riparian forests, urban forests, and open spaces for recreation. The proposed management plan creates urban infrastructure that is interconnected with a series of links and hubs to restore the ecosystem integrity of the area. |
