Using MODIS 250 m Imagery to Estimate Total Suspended Sediment in a Tropical Open Bay

Monitoring and better understanding of sediment flux and processes in coastal environments are important to maintain water quality and geomorphologic balance. This study describes the development and validation of an algorithm to estimate total suspended sediment (TSS) based on remote sensing reflectance (Rrs) and MODIS/Terra band 1 data. Two image processing methods, based on two image analysis packages predefined routines, were evaluated and compared in order to determine the most suitable method for this study. Analyses of in situ data showed a significant relationship between TSS and Rrs at 645 nm (R=0.73) indicating positive response of this parameter in the interested region of the spectrum. Developed algorithms were evaluated by applying resultant equations to two MODIS images from which in situ data were available. In the validation analysis the lower error was encountered when using an exponential equation, however linear equations estimations followed better the tendency of measured values. TSS estimations of all three algorithms presented values within the range of in situ observations and spatial patterns characteristic of coastal environments. Additional data and pre-processing parameters will be evaluated in order to improve validation results and produce TSS operational products for tropical coastal waters. Keywords— Total Suspended Sediments (TSS), Remote Sensing Reflectance (Rrs), MODIS, coastal waters, Mayagüez Bay.

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