Using RS and GIS to Mapping Land Cover of the Cap Bon (Tunisia)

Abstract

The Peninsula of Cap Bon (Tunisia) is an area containing a much-contrasted land use. It is divided into large natural subareas next to the mountains and “artificialized” spaces scattered now along the coast. Yet only a few land use maps have been elaborated on the topic. Within this context, the design and implementation of one specific GIS called LUIS (Land Use Information System) issued from one database may lead to a systemic and “multiscalar” approach to study and understand the complex occupancy of this unique Tunisian region. “Multisource” and “multiscalar” remote sensing images represent certainly the potential source of data and knowledge in this work. The main goal of this research is to develop a methodology that can identify, locate and map, at different scales and by using various modes of presentation, the land use as an overall information system. It contains three phases bringing together a useful synergy between GIS and remote sensing: The design of the LUIS using the HBDS method; Remote sensing image processing. The proper development and implementation of the LUISystem. The data issued from multiple land use layers helps to represent the finest classes of land uses that can be superimposed altogether by creating more or less homogenous subareas. Thus, the various themes which are analyzed, including the social, economic and even historical aspects, ranging from the local to the regional levels. Of course, the LUIS system allows storing, updating, querying and synthesizing heterogeneous data. It also helps to monitor and understand the landscape dynamics, the population changes and the multiple violations of the land use regulations.