Land Cover

The GLOBE Observer Land Cover protocol allows community scientists to "adopt a pixel" on the map and plot out their own backyard. Scientists study land cover to learn about climate change, hazard mitigation, human health, food production, and environmental degradation. While satellite imagery can give scientists a pretty good idea of land cover, it always helps to ground truth that data - that's where you come in!

• Download The GLOBE Observer App and create your free Globe.gov account.

• Watch the embedded video to the left for a quick overview of how to make your own observations. This takes you through the first step, which is to collect photographs of your observation area. You can find detailed, step-by-step instructions on the GLOBE Observer Land Cover webpage.

• Head outside to make your land cover observations! Depending on where you live, you might find that your yard is not quite big enough to take a land cover observation. You might have to branch out into your neighborhood or a local park. Be sure to check out our safety tips and Be Prepared.

• GLOBE Data Visualizer - See data uploaded by other community scientists all around the GLOBE. This web page includes a tutorial on how to use the GLOBE Data Visualizer, where all GLOBE data (including your observations!) can be found.

• GLOBE Land Cover Resource Library - This resource library includes several family-friendly crafts and activities related to clouds. These include DIY glacier melt, landslide, and urban heat island simulations using common household items.