High resolution remote sensing, GPS and GIS in soil resource mapping and characterization-A Review

Abstract

Timely and reliable information on soils with respect to their nature, extent, spatial distribution is very crucial for optimal utilization of available natural resources on a sustained basis. The technological advances in the field of remote sensing, Global Positioning System (GPS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) have augmented the efficiency of soil survey. The management of resources on sustainable basis emphasis the overall development of the region without diminishing the environment. The integrated use of advanced computer technologies with database can be used to assist decision makers for future plans. Yet, so far most of the studies have been performed on a small scale and only few on regional or larger map scale. Although progress has been made from earlier, current methods and techniques still bear potential to further explore the full range of spectral, spatial and temporal of high resolution satellites in soil resource mapping and characterization. Precisely, the present article, aims to review the status on the applications of high resolution remote sensing data like IRS-P6 LISS IV, PAN, Cartosat-I, IKONOS, GPS and GIS in soil resource inventory and characterization at large scale for the micro level agricultural planning.