An evidence gathering and assessment technique designed for a forest cover classification algorithm based on the Dempster-Shafer theory of evidence

This thesis presents a new approach for classifying Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper (TM) imagery that utilizes digitally represented, non-spectral data in the classification step. A classification algorithm that is based on the Dempster-Shafer theory of evidence is developed and tested for its ability to provide an accurate representation of forest cover on the ground at the Anderson et al (1976) level II. The research focuses on defining an objective, systematic method of gathering and assessing the evidence from digital sources including TM data, the normalized difference vegetation index, soils, slope, aspect, and elevation.; The algorithm is implemented using the ESRI ArcView Spatial Analyst software package and the Grid spatial data structure with software coded in both ArcView Avenue and also C. The methodology uses frequency of occurrence information to gather evidence and also introduces measures of evidence quality that quantify the ability of the evidence source to differentiate the Anderson forest cover classes. The measures are derived objectively and empirically and are based on common principles of legal argument. The evidence assessment measures augment the Dempster-Shafer theory and the research will determine if they provide an argument that is mentally sound, credible, and consistent. This research produces a method for identifying, assessing, and combining evidence sources using the Dempster-Shafer theory that results in a classified image containing the Anderson forest cover class.; Test results indicate that the new classifier performs with accuracy that is similar to the traditional maximum likelihood approach. However, confusion among the deciduous and mixed classes remains.{09}The utility of the evidence gathering method and also the evidence assessment method is demonstrated and confirmed. The algorithm presents an operational method of using the Dempster-Shafer theory of evidence for forest classification.