Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/11681/11687
Title: The use of ERTS-1 imagery in the National Program for the Inspection of Dams
Authors: United States. National Aeronautics and Space Administration
McKim, H. L. (Harlan L.)
Marlar, T. L. (Thomas L.)
Duwayne M. (Duwayne Marlo), 1927-
Keywords: Dams
Data acquisition
Hydrographic surveys
Photogrammetry
Reconnaissance surveys
Reservoirs
Spaceborne photography
Dam safety
Remote sensing
Satellites
ERTS-1 (satellite)
Publisher: Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (U.S.)
Engineer Research and Development Center (U.S.)
Series/Report no.: Special report (Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (U.S.)) ; 183.
Description: Special Report
Abstract: ERTS-1 imagery can be useful in locating circular water bodies over 152 m (500 ft) in diameter. Dams on streams can be identified by an abrupt change in stream width. A linear termination on a water body is a reliable indication of a dam, particularly when it is inconsistent with the normal drainage pattern. Care must be exercised to avoid confusing cloud shadows with water bodies. However, the association of a cloud with its shadow usually can be accomplished since the sun angle is noted in the data given on each ERTS image. The following information generally can be derived from ERTS imagery: 1.) The location of water bodies. 2.) The size and shape of water bodies. 3.) The identification of dam sites on major rivers. 4.) The direction of stream flow of major hydrologic networks. 5.) Relative water depths and/or gross sedimentation patterns. ERTS-1 imagery, in general, does not supply information suitable for determining: 1.) Dam height. 2.) Type of dam construction (concrete or earth fill.) 3.) Depth of water bodies. 4.) Location of water bodies less than 6 acres.
Rights: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
URI: http://hdl.handle.net/11681/11687
Appears in Collections:Special Report

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