REMOTE SENSING APPLICATIONS IN FOREST AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT: A LEARNING RESOURCE FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

Abstract

Mapping is a crucial step in managing forest and wildlife and agricultural resources. The philosophy which states that 'what cannot be mapped, cannot be measured; what cannot be measured, cannot be monitored; and what cannot be managed' underscores the importance of mapping in resource management.  This paper aims to present a novel teaching and learning resource that integrates remote sensing to enhance the knowledge of 200-level agricultural sciences, forestry, and wildlife management students in Nigerian universities, in line with the National Universities Commission's (NUC) Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS). This paper methodologically introduces the principles of remote sensing, their applications in forestry and wildlife management, and their potential to address various societal problems. Developed through a structured framework of lecture notes, practical applications, case studies, and hands-on exercises, this resource provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary for sustainable forest management. In conclusion, this resource enables students to acquire the expertise needed for assessing ecosystem services, monitoring forest changes, and implementing sustainable forest management practices, thereby shaping the next generation of forestry and wildlife management professionals. After reading this article, learners and lecturers will be able to provide a definition of forest, understand Remote Sensing principles and applications in forestry, wildlife management and agricultural sciences.