Abstract not found

Timely, high-quality data from remote sensing can benefi t the study of physical geography in many ways (Wolman, 2004). Rapid devel-opments in remote sensing, particularly from satellite platforms, have generated much, often well-placed, enthusiasm about its potential as a powerful research tool (Skole, 2004). Indeed, remote sensing is viewed by many as having come of age (Tatem et al., 2008) and can be deemed a mature discip-line with its physical principles well under-stood and its range of applications a show-case of its versatility (Warner et al., 2009). Historically, physical geography has bene-fited greatly from the emergence of new

iv Acknowledgement I will be forever grateful to Dr. Temuulen (Teki) Sankey for all of her guidance and support throughout my graduate student experience. Her thoughtful words always helped me simplify the challenges I was faced with and continue on with renewed energy. I would also like to thank my other committee members, Dr. Nancy Glenn and Dr. Charles Peterson. Dr. Glenn is probably one of the most intelligent and hard-working women I know and if I am even half as passionate and dedicated to my work is as she is I know I will have found my calling. Dr. Peterson gave me the wildlife perspective that was needed and was always very positive about my research. Also a big thank you to Lucas Spaete and Rupesh Shrestha for answering all of my “general ” questions, providing comments on papers, posters and presentations, helping me overcome obstacles once Teki had moved to Tucson, and for keeping my spirits lifted on those inevitable frustrating days. To all of the other students and faculty members, you have made this a truly life changing experience.