Remote Sensing of Wildfires from edX

Wildfires are a natural and essential part of our ecosystem, recycling soil nutrients and renewing healthy forests. In Alaska, around one million acres (4000 km2) burn every year, and record years have seen as many as six million acres burned. Most of these fires are allowed to spread naturally.

However, when wildfires occur near population centers, they can be a serious threat to the safety and well-being of people. Recent disastrous fire seasons in Alaska, California, and Australia have shown how communities near forests, in what is known as the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI), are increasingly at risk due to hotter and drier summer weather caused by climate change.

In the fight to protect these communities, remote sensing technology has become essential. Wildfire analysts use satellite imagery and powerful computer programs to predict fire risk, detect fires early, and monitor their spread. After a wildfire is extinguished, remote sensing is used to analyze the impact of a fire and to guide sustainable restoration efforts.

Participants in this course will learn about remote sensing of wildfires from instructors at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, located in one of the world’s most active wildfire zones. Students will learn about wildfire behavior, and get hands-on experience with tools and resources used by professionals to create geospatial maps that support firefighters on the ground.

Upon completion, students will be able to:

Access web resources that provide near real-time updates on active wildfires
Navigate databases of remote sensing imagery and data
Analyze geospatial data to detect fire hot spots, map burn areas, and assess severity
Process image and GIS data in ArcGIS Pro

Verified track learners will receive a one-year ArcGIS Pro license in addition to unlimited course access and a verified certificate.

What's inside

Learning objectives

What climate conditions lead to wildfires in alaska
How wildfires are managed in alaska
How fire impacts people, environment, ecosystems, and wildlife
How remote-sensing science works

How remote sensing is used for detecting wildfires, monitoring their spread, and assessing fire impacts
How remote sensing supports fire management decisions
How to locate wildfire remote-sensing data and geospatial products

What climate conditions lead to wildfires in alaska
How wildfires are managed in alaska
How fire impacts people, environment, ecosystems, and wildlife
How remote-sensing science works
How remote sensing is used for detecting wildfires, monitoring their spread, and assessing fire impacts
How remote sensing supports fire management decisions
How to locate wildfire remote-sensing data and geospatial products

Syllabus

Week 1: An overview of wildfires in Alaska

Introduction to wildfires in Alaska: fire season and fire statistics

Wildfire management

Wildfire impacts on people, environment, ecosystem and wildlife

Week 2: An introduction to remote sensing of Earth

How does remote sensing work?

Earth observation satellite missions and their data

Image interpretation: how to identify land features in an image?

Week 3: Remote sensing applications on wildfires:

Mapping wildfire fuel from image data

Detecting wildfire from space

Mapping burn scar and assessing fire impact

Week 4: Remote sensing resources

Remote sensing data, tools, and services from NASA, NOAA, U.S. Forest Service, and Alaska Interagency Coordination Center

How remote sensing data and products support decision making for fire management

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Suitable for learners with no background in wildfires, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the topic

Covers the latest methods and technologies used in wildfire management, making it relevant to professionals in the field

Features hands-on exercises and activities that reinforce the concepts learned

Taught by experienced instructors from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, a leading institution in wildfire science

Provides a valuable foundation for those seeking to pursue further studies or careers in wildfire management

May require prior knowledge of GIS software for some exercises

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Remote Sensing of Wildfires with these activities:

Review the basics of Earth science

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Reinforce foundational knowledge of Earth science concepts, such as plate tectonics and the rock cycle, to enhance comprehension of wildfire behavior and impacts.

Browse courses on Earth Science

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Read introductory textbooks or online resources on Earth science
Review notes or lecture materials from previous Earth science courses
Take practice quizzes or complete interactive exercises on Earth science topics

Explore geospatial analysis software

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Develop proficiency in geospatial analysis tools to analyze wildfire data and create maps, enhancing understanding of wildfire patterns and spread.

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Follow online tutorials or video demonstrations on ArcGIS Pro or other geospatial software
Complete hands-on exercises using sample wildfire data
Seek guidance from experienced users or online forums for troubleshooting

Compile a collection of wildfire resources

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Organize and access relevant wildfire-related data, tools, and information in one centralized location, enhancing efficiency and decision-making during wildfire events.

Browse courses on Remote Sensing Data

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Identify and gather data sources from government agencies, research institutions, and non-profit organizations
Categorize and organize resources based on their用途和内容
Create a comprehensive online or offline resource repository for easy access

Four other activities

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Practice detecting wildfires using satellite imagery

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Sharpen skills in identifying wildfires from satellite imagery, improving accuracy and response time in real-world scenarios.

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Access online platforms or datasets that provide near real-time satellite imagery
Practice identifying different types of wildfires based on their spectral signatures and patterns
Collaborate with other learners or experts to validate findings and improve accuracy

Collaborate on wildfire risk assessment projects

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Enhance understanding of wildfire risk factors and mitigation strategies by working with peers to analyze data, create maps, and develop recommendations.

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Form study groups or teams with other learners
Select a specific wildfire-prone area for risk assessment and analysis
Use remote sensing data, GIS software, and other tools to identify and map potential wildfire hazards
Develop risk mitigation strategies and recommendations based on the analysis

Design and develop an educational infographic on wildfire safety

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Enhance communication and outreach efforts by creating visually engaging infographics that educate the public about wildfire safety measures and risk mitigation strategies.

Browse courses on Community Outreach

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Gather data and information on wildfire safety from credible sources
Design and create a visually appealing infographic using graphic design software
Include key information such as evacuation plans, safety precautions, and fire prevention measures
Share the infographic with local communities, schools, and emergency response organizations

Participate in a local wildfire mitigation project

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Gain practical experience in wildfire prevention and management by volunteering in local projects, such as fuel reduction or community outreach initiatives.

Browse courses on Community Involvement

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Contact local fire departments, forestry agencies, or non-profit organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities
Participate in activities such as clearing brush, creating fire breaks, or educating the community about wildfire risks
Share your experiences and knowledge with others to promote wildfire awareness and preparedness

Career center

Learners who complete Remote Sensing of Wildfires will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Wildland Firefighter

Wildland Firefighters are responsible for fighting wildfires. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Wildland Firefighters as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Wildland Firefighters understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Wildland Firefighter

Remote Sensing Scientist

Remote Sensing Scientists use remote sensing technology to collect and analyze data about the Earth's surface. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Remote Sensing Scientists as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Remote Sensing Scientists understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Fire Management Officer

Fire Management Officers plan and manage fire protection and prevention programs. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Fire Management Officers as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Fire Management Officers understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Analyst

GIS Analysts use geospatial data to solve problems and make decisions. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to GIS Analysts as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help GIS Analysts understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Analyst

Natural Resources Manager

Natural Resources Managers are responsible for managing natural resources, such as forests, water, and wildlife. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Natural Resources Managers as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Natural Resources Managers understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Climatologist

Climatologists study climate and its long-term changes. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Climatologists as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Climatologists understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Meteorologist

Meteorologists study the atmosphere and its weather patterns. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Meteorologists as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Meteorologists understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Forester

Foresters manage forests and their resources. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Foresters as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Foresters understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Fire Investigator

Fire Investigators are responsible for investigating the causes of fires. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Fire Investigators as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Fire Investigators understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the environment and its interactions with humans. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Environmental Scientists as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Environmental Scientists understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Fire Equipment Tester

Fire Equipment Testers are responsible for ensuring that fire equipment is in good working order. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Fire Equipment Testers as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Fire Equipment Testers understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Fire Inspector

Fire Inspectors are responsible for identifying and correcting fire hazards. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Fire Inspectors as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Fire Inspectors understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Biologist

Biologists study living organisms and their interactions with each other and their environment. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Biologists as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Biologists understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Geographer

Geographers study the Earth's surface and its human and natural features. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Geographers as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Geographers understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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Ecologist

Ecologists study the interactions between organisms and their environment. This course provides an overview of wildfires in Alaska, which is increasingly important to Ecologists as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires. The course also covers remote sensing of Earth, which can be used to detect wildfires, monitor their spread, and assess fire impacts. This knowledge can help Ecologists understand the risks associated with wildfires and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

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