DSI - Desertification Soil Index

DSI Desertification Soil Index 

There are various indices and techniques used in remote sensing to assess desertification and soil degradation. These methods often involve analyzing the spectral information obtained from hyperspectral data to detect changes in soil properties related to desertification processes. 

One commonly used index for monitoring soil degradation is the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). NDVI is calculated using the red and near-infrared (NIR) bands of the electromagnetic spectrum and provides information about vegetation health and density, which can indirectly indicate soil degradation in arid and semi-arid regions. 

Other indices, such as the Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) and the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), have also been employed to monitor vegetation cover and assess soil degradation. These indices aim to minimize the influences of soil brightness and atmospheric conditions on vegetation indices, making them more suitable for arid and semi-arid environments.

Generic Formula 

Formula by Sentinel-2 bands

Reference

• Wu, J., Liu, Y., Wang, J., & He, T. (2010). Application of Hyperion data to land degradation mapping in the Hengshan region of China. International Journal of Remote Sensing, 31(19), 5145-5161.