This report outlines a protocol for assessing the thematic accuracy of large-scale ecosystem mapping. The protocol presents a statistically unbiased approach to evaluating the acceptability or accuracy of the mapping. The thematic content of randomly selected map polygons, or small areas, is assessed by various means, with the methods varying in precision & objectivity. The protocol requires the development of a sampling plan that articulates decisions about such matters as protocol level, sample size, assessment method, and target error. The approach outlined in this protocol provides a means of obtaining some overall, statistically valid scores to rate the accuracy of predictive ecosystem mapping, terrestrial ecosystem mapping, or other ecosystem maps. The results can be used as a component of quality assurance or for presenting statistics on the accuracy of mapping.

This paper presents a protocol for assessing the predictive accuracy of thematic maps. Although developed during the Cariboo Predictive Ecosystem Mapping (PEM) pilot, the Canim Lake PEM operational prototype, and the Quesnel PEM to test the accuracy of predictive ecosystem maps, this protocol is applicable to many thematic maps. The Protocol for Accuracy Assessment of Ecosystem Maps (Meidinger 2003) incorporates many of the concepts presented here, but recent work done on the Canim Lake and Quesnel PEMS suggests that a more detailed operational protocol is needed to ensure the integrity of the data collected. In addition to detailed instructions and specifications for data collection, this paper describes a staged sampling protocol designed to minimize the sampling cost required to attain a specified level of confidence in the assessed accuracy.

The past 10 years have brought amazing changes to the technologies used to turn remotely sensed data into maps. As a result, the principles and practices necessary for assessing the accuracy of those maps have also evolved and matured. This third edition of Assessing the Accuracy of Remotely Sensed Data: Principles and Practices is thoroughly updated and includes five new chapters. Now 15 chapters long, this text is the only one of its kind to provide geospatial analysts with the requisite considerations, tools, and theory necessary to conduct successful and efficient map accuracy assessments; and map users with the knowledge to fully understand the assessment process to ensure effective use of maps. See What’s New in the Third Edition: All original chapters have been updated to include new standards, practices, and methodologies. A new chapter on planning accuracy assessments. A new chapter on assessing maps created using object-based technologies. Two case study chapters - one showcasing the assessment of maps created from traditional methods, and one on the assessment of object-based maps. Emphasis on considering and planning for positional accuracy in concert with thematic accuracy. An appendix containing the internationally recognized ASPRS Positional Accuracy Standards. A new final chapter summarizing the key concepts, considerations and lessons learned by the authors in their decades of implementing and evaluating accuracy assessments. Assessing map accuracy is complex; however, the discussions in this book, together with the many figures, tables, and case studies, clearly present the necessary concepts and considerations for conducting an assessment that is both is practical, statistically reliable, and achievable.

A rich set of protocols for the process of assessing the ecological make-up of the land so as to guide environmental decision-making.