CU Boulder - Earth Data Analytics 2023 Capstone Project

This project is focused on enhancing the historical and ecological understanding of environmentally sensitive areas within the City of Brighton, Colorado by analyzing satellite data and creating custom NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) maps for five specific areas in Brighton. These curated maps will assist decision-makers in making informed choices about managing and preserving these areas to withstand the immediate effects of a changing climate.

Situated about 20 miles northeast of downtown Denver in Adams County, Brighton, Colorado is a city spanning approximately 21 square miles. Its growth has been deeply intertwined with its agricultural heritage, a connection fostered by its strategic location along the South Platte River and the Union Pacific Railroad. As the city has developed over time, maintaining a current population of roughly 41,000 people as of 2020, its steadfast agricultural roots continue to shape its character and play a pivotal role in driving its economic vibrancy, setting the stage for the notable surge in population.

The region boasts numerous farms and ranches, which contribute to the local economy while maintaining the connection to the city's rich agricultural heritage. With a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters, the area has long been an ideal location for growing crops such as sugar beets, corn, wheat, and alfalfa. The natural environments encompassing prairie grasslands, wetlands, and riparian areas have faced challenges due to the expansion of urban and agricultural zones, resulting in diminished biodiversity and compromised ecological well-being. In response, the city has implemented measures aimed at safeguarding these ecological attributes, such as the initiation of conservation easements and other preservation strategies.

Similar to forests, grasslands assume a crucial function in carbon sequestration and storage. Comparable to the global consequences of deforestation, the deterioration of grasslands can yield severe climate effects. Given the ongoing surge in climate-related incidents, such as heightened wildfire intensity, the preservation of areas like Brighton to mitigate carbon loss becomes imperative. The diminishing capacity of the landscape to absorb and retain water, as well as the resultant erosion and soil degradation, can catalyze the decline of vegetation, biodiversity, and habitats for wildlife, consequently contributing to ecosystem degradation.

The objective of this project is to gather and assess data for the visualization and calculation of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) spanning from 1990 to the present (34 years) for five study areas throughout the city using data obtained from USGS Landsat 5, 8, and 9. This analysis aims to gauge drought indicators, directing attention and resources towards the city's most susceptible zones. By incorporating sustainable strategies, Brighton can persist as a dynamic community, upholding its ties to agricultural roots and the encompassing natural environment.

Before the late 1800s and early 1900s, the region that now encompasses Brighton, Colorado was home to Native American tribes like the Arapaho and Cheyenne. These tribes relied on the flora and fauna found in prairie grasslands and the South Platte River for their sustenance. With the arrival of European settlers, attracted by the promise of fertile lands, the area transitioned. Early settlers, primarily farmers and ranchers, cultivated the land and formed a budding community. The region's natural resources, including its fertile soil and water sources, played a pivotal role in shaping its growth and transformation into an agricultural town.

Before the late 1800s and early 1900s, the region that now encompasses Brighton, Colorado was home to Native American tribes like the Arapaho and Cheyenne. These tribes relied on the flora and fauna found in prairie grasslands and the South Platte River for their sustenance. With the arrival of European settlers, attracted by the promise of fertile lands, the area transitioned. Early settlers, primarily farmers and ranchers, cultivated the land and formed a budding community. The region's natural resources, including its fertile soil and water sources, played a pivotal role in shaping its growth and transformation into an agricultural town.

The construction of the railroad in the mid-19th century opened up new opportunities for commerce, transportation, and settlement in the American West. As word spread about the new opportunities and fertile land near the railroad, more people were drawn to Brighton in search of a better life. The railroad served as a lifeline, connecting Brighton to the wider world and helping to establish it as a thriving agricultural community.

The presence of the railroad brought a transformative effect to Brighton and the surrounding region. Before the railroad's arrival, the area was relatively isolated, accessible mainly by horse-drawn wagons and stagecoaches. However, with the railroad passing through the vicinity, it suddenly became much easier to transport goods and people to and from the town.

For Brighton, the proximity to the railroad became a critical factor in its founding and early development. The town was strategically located off the South Platte River, providing access to both the waterway and the railroad. This transportation advantage allowed local farmers and ranchers to efficiently ship their agricultural products, such as crops, livestock, and dairy, to markets in Denver and beyond.

The proximity of Brighton to the South Platte River and the Fulton Ditch infused the area with a rich tapestry of historical significance. Originating as a buffalo trail tracing the riverbanks, the corridor evolved successively into an indigenous path and subsequently a trade route for enterprising entrepreneurs. Over time, these ancient routes transformed into well-trodden roads, which in turn gave rise to turnpikes that eventually yielded to the transformative power of the Union Pacific Railroad. The Platte's ancient trail bore witness to the passage of diverse entities: from trappers, explorers, miners, tourists, farmers, ranchers, and merchants.

The development of Brighton, Colorado has been significantly influenced by the existence of oil and gas resources, particularly within the Spindle Oil Field. The identification and extraction of these resources within the Greater Wattenberg Oil Field system that encompasses the region, have historically driven economic growth and offered job opportunities for the region. Many former mining operations from gravel to gold, that have now been flooded unintentionally create new habitats like ponds and water bodies that may be advantageous for specific species such as bald eagles and other types of birds. Therefore, the city aspires to maintain a careful balance between energy development and safeguarding vulnerable wildlife populations.

Brighton's agriculture and pivotal crops, including sugar beets, alfalfa, and corn, have been profoundly influenced by the South Platte River and Fulton Ditch agricultural irrigation canal. These vital water sources have undergone a transformative process, converting arid plains into productive farmland. This spurred Brighton's nationwide recognition in the sugar industry, with local processing facilities bolstering the local economy. The abundant harvests made possible by the river and ditch have in turn fortified the livestock sector, contributing to the town's economic vitality. The longstanding prosperity of Brighton as an agricultural center owes a great deal to these integral waterways, which continue to define the town's rich farming heritage. Notably, the Historic Splendid Valley initiative seeks to secure conservation easements, aimed at safeguarding Brighton's agricultural legacy and ensuring the protection of its natural resources for generations to come.

Bald eagles have found a thriving habitat in Colorado's Front Range, including Barr Lake State Park, and more recently, in the Brighton vicinity since 2019. The presence of these majestic raptors reflects the success of conservation efforts and the restoration of natural habitats in the region. The resurgence of bald eagles marks a significant environmental achievement, underscoring the effectiveness of ongoing preservation initiatives. Their presence in the Barr Lake and Brighton areas serves as a symbol of the positive impact of habitat restoration and environmental protection, creating opportunities for both local residents and wildlife enthusiasts to witness and appreciate these iconic birds in their natural habitat.

Brighton, Colorado boasts an extensive parks and open space program that stands as a testament to the city's commitment to providing its residents with quality recreational and natural environments. With a focus on enhancing the overall quality of life, Brighton has allocated substantial resources to develop and maintain a network of parks, green spaces, and recreational facilities that cater to a diverse range of interests and activities. These spaces not only offer residents opportunities for outdoor recreation, sports, and leisure, but also serve as vital hubs for community engagement and social interaction. The city's dedication to its parks and open spaces underscores its recognition of the intrinsic value of preserving nature, promoting physical well-being, and fostering a strong sense of community identity among its residents.

Five areas within the city have been selected to be designated as “priority conservation areas.” A PCA will be defined as "an area desirable to maintain or enhance through protection, restoration, or sustainable stewardship", such as an area with:

• Land that provides essential ecosystem services (Erger’s Pond)
• Critical habitat for vulnerable species (Ken Mitchell Open Space)
• Protected wildlife habitat (Morgan Smith Nature Area)
• Significant biodiversity, pocket prairie (Mattive Open Space)
• Land with historical agriculture use (Wagner-Mayhew Property)

By calculating the NDVI, any significant changes in vegetation land cover, such as deforestation, agricultural conversion, or changes in plant species can be identified. These changes can then be compared against historical data, identifying the important biotic and abiotic structures within each study area's boundaries. These structures play a critical role in the ecosystem and can provide insight into potential vulnerabilities to the area.

NDVI is used to assess the greenness in the vegetation cover. The range of values obtained is between −1 and +1. Only positive values correspond to vegetation gain, and negative values correspond to vegetation loss. If no change has occurred, the value is neutral.

This index is important for agricultural drought monitoring, used to estimate crop yields, pasture performance, carbon carrying capacities, assess nutrient deficiencies, etc. Its value is directly related to percent of ground cover, photosynthetic activity of the plant, and surface water, as well as other factors.

The Landsat satellites are used for Earth observation and remote sensing, and they have different bands to capture various types of information about the Earth's surface.

Here's the breakdown of Landsat 5 - 9:

• Landsat 5: This satellite had seven spectral bands:
  • Band 1: Blue
  • Band 2: Green
  • Band 3: Red
  • Band 4: Near-Infrared (NIR)
  • Band 5: Mid-Infrared (MIR)
  • Band 6: Thermal Infrared (TIR)
  • Band 7: MIR

Landsat 6 failed to achieve orbit and did not become operational. As a result, it didn't capture any data or have any bands in operation. Landsat 7 has a hardware malfunction that occurred shortly after Landsat 7's launch in 1999. The missing data creates noticeable striping artifacts in Landsat 7 imagery which can be particularly problematic for detecting subtle changes over time; therefore, this data has been omitted.

• Landsat 8/9: Landsat 8 and 9 have eleven spectral bands:
  • Band 1: Coastal/Aerosol
  • Band 2: Blue
  • Band 3: Green
  • Band 4: Red
  • Band 5: Near-Infrared (NIR
  • Band 6: Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) 1
  • Band 7: Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) 2
  • Band 8: Panchromatic (higher spatial resolution black and white)
  • Band 9: Cirrus (for cloud detection)
  • Band 10: Thermal Infrared (TIR) 1
  • Band 11: Thermal Infrared (TIR) 2

Landsat 5, 8, and 9 imagery and shapefiles can be downloaded by visiting the " inputs " and " shapefiles " folders in the GitHub repository. Make sure to unzip 262 inputs and 58 shapefiles/metadata files directly into (users/YOUR_NAME_HERE/earth-analytics/landsat-brighton).

This imagery data download can be replicated by going to the  USGS EarthExplorer  interface, creating an account if necessary, and following this process (time period, study area, date range, and satellite products can be adjusted accordingly):

1. Decadal Average Percent of Change in NDVI: 6 study areas (5 PCA's + Brighton) and across 3 decades for a total of 24 percentage values, printed as in-line table.

1. KDE Frequency of NDVI Values by Decade: 5 kinetic depth effect (KDE) figures for each study area across 4 decades + and 1 for all decades, for a total of 6 in-line figures, downloadable as .png images (if desired).
2. Annual Change in NDVI: A .gif is generated for each study area (6) cycling through 34 images (at most) for a total of 6 .gif files.
3. Decadal Average NDVI Subplots: Average NDVI for 4 decades displayed as four-figure subplots clipped to each clipped to 5 study areas + Brighton for a total of 6 .tif subplot figures.

1. Decadal Average NDVI Composites: A mean composited NDVI image using the supplied RED and NIR bands calculated for each decade (4) for 6 study areas for a total of 24 .tif images.

Study area: 2,207 acres

Brighton, Colorado, was named after Brighton Beach, a well-known beachfront neighborhood in the borough of Brooklyn, New York City. The name was suggested by Daniel Carmichael, a former school teacher and prominent figure in the early history of Brighton, Colorado. Carmichael had ties to New York and reportedly named the town after Brighton Beach in New York due to its association with health and well-being. Brighton Beach in New York was a popular resort destination known for its fresh sea air and perceived health benefits. It was a place where people would go for relaxation, rejuvenation, and to escape the crowded and polluted urban areas.

The observed modest positive trend in the change in NDVI values within the city limits of Brighton over the past three decades can be influenced by a combination of factors related to sustainability practices, historic preservation initiatives, open space acquisition, park development, and rapid urban expansion. These processes can interact in complex ways to shape the vegetation dynamics and land use patterns, thereby affecting NDVI values over time.

The rapid urban expansion and population growth in Brighton can lead to increased built-up areas, infrastructure development, and changes in land use patterns. These changes can lead to a decrease in natural vegetation cover and fragmentation of habitats, potentially resulting in a slight decrease or stabilization of NDVI values in urbanized areas.

Acquiring open space and developing parks provide residents with opportunities for outdoor recreation, increase green cover, and contribute to improved air and water quality. These areas can serve as urban refuges for native vegetation, wildlife, and pollinators. The establishment of green spaces can lead to an increase in NDVI values due to the presence of vegetation-rich areas. Additionally, initiatives like the Historic Splendid Valley designation emphasize the importance of preserving natural and historical assets. By protecting open spaces, historic sites, and cultural landscapes, these initiatives can enhance biodiversity, maintain native vegetation, and ensure that green spaces are maintained. Such efforts can contribute to a positive change in NDVI values by fostering healthy ecosystems.

Study area: 224 acres

Erger's Pond, a serene lake nestled in Brighton's landscape, holds a name that pays homage to the Erger family, a significant and influential presence in the history of the town. Although the City of Brighton acquired Erger's Pond in the year 2000, the Erger family's legacy is deeply interwoven with the fabric of Brighton, as they played a pivotal role in shaping its development and growth. They contributed to the establishment of Brighton as a thriving agricultural hub, where their efforts in farming, ranching, and commerce not only propelled economic prosperity but also fostered a sense of community cohesion among Brighton's residents.

The recorded changes in NDVI values for Erger's Pond over the specified time periods reveal fluctuations of -5.04%, 1.23%, and -6.21%. The installation of a water augmentation system in the pond during recent years represents a significant intervention that could influence these NDVI changes.

The water augmentation system, designed to pump water to the Fulton Ditch and reintroduce clean water into the South Platte River, has the potential to affect the local hydrological balance and vegetation dynamics. The augmented water supply could lead to variations in water levels, moisture content, and nutrient availability in and around the pond. These alterations, in turn, can impact the vegetation and plant species in the area, thus influencing the NDVI values.

Furthermore, the introduction of pristine water into the South Platte River, facilitated by the water augmentation system, carries with it the potential for favorable outcomes on the aquatic ecosystem and the vegetation along the riverbanks. This ecological rejuvenation may yield enhanced vitality and expansion in plant growth, thereby impacting NDVI values. The observed upward change in NDVI (1.23%) might indeed mirror this revitalizing impact on the vegetation. The installation of the water augmentation system introduces a complex interplay of factors that can influence NDVI values over time. The interaction of these factors, combined with the existing environmental conditions and management strategies, contributes to the observed fluctuations in NDVI values for Erger's Pond.

Study area: 756 acres

Ken Mitchell Open Space's name pays tribute to a remarkable individual who played a pivotal role in Brighton's development. Ken Mitchell was not only a politician and civil servant but also a dedicated philanthropist. His contributions left an indelible mark on the city, and his legacy is honored through this open space that bears his name.

Ken Mitchell Open Space's story begins with a significant shift in land use. Once an area dominated by concrete mining and processing activities carried out by entities like Ready Mix Concrete, this land underwent a remarkable transformation. In 2005, Brighton took a proactive step by designating the area as an open space, safeguarding it from further industrial development. This decision marked a turning point in the site's history, allowing the land to thrive as a place of natural beauty and community engagement.

One notable dip in NDVI values between 2010 and 2020 can be attributed to a specific event: the draining of one of its cells. This event resulted in the exposure of previously submerged areas and the accumulation of leftover sediments, both of which could have contributed to a temporary drop in vegetation health. When submerged areas are suddenly exposed to sunlight, they can experience stress as they adapt to the new conditions. The process of acclimatization can take time, and during this transition, the NDVI values may decrease. These sediments might contain mining related pollutants, minerals, and debris that can negatively impact vegetation health. If the accumulated sediments introduce unfavorable conditions for plant growth, it also could contribute to the drop in NDVI values.

One of the most exciting developments at Ken Mitchell Open Space is the establishment of a bald eagle presence in the area as of 2019. The return of these majestic birds to the landscape underscores the success of conservation efforts and the restoration of natural habitats. The presence of bald eagles serves as a testament to the ecological health of the space, as these raptors are known to be sensitive indicators of environmental quality. Their presence also enhances the overall experience for visitors, who now have the unique opportunity to witness these iconic birds in their natural habitat.

Study area: 64 acres

The City of Brighton acquired the Morgan Smith Nature Area in 1992. This acquisition marked a significant step towards preserving natural habitats and providing a space for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors while connecting with the local environment. Morgan Smith was a prominent figure in Brighton's history who played a significant role in the community's development and conservation efforts. His contributions as a philanthropist and conservation advocate earned him the honor of having the Morgan Smith Nature Area named after him.

The transformation of the Morgan Smith Nature Area in Brighton is a remarkable journey from its past as a dumpsite to becoming a thriving wildlife area. Once a neglected area, the nature area underwent an extensive restoration process that breathed new life into the landscape. The restoration efforts involved cleaning up the site, removing debris, and implementing ecological restoration techniques.

Through diligent restoration work, the Morgan Smith Nature Area has been able to recover its natural ecosystems and attract a diverse range of wildlife. Wetlands, ponds, and vegetation have been reintroduced, creating a habitat that supports various bird species, beavers, mule deer, and aquatic life. The revitalized landscape not only benefits the local wildlife but also provides an opportunity for community members to connect with nature and engage in recreational activities.

The conversion of a former dumpsite into a nature area involved extensive restoration efforts, including soil remediation, planting native vegetation, and creating suitable habitats for wildlife. These restoration activities have likely led to an increase in vegetation cover and health, contributing to higher NDVI values over time.

The efforts to restore the area's natural habitats and promote biodiversity have likely attracted various wildlife species to the Morgan Smith Nature Area. The presence of wildlife, including birds and mammals, can contribute to increased seed dispersal, pollination, and other ecological interactions that support vegetation growth and health.

Study area: 27 acres

The City of Brighton acquired the Mattive Open Space on December 20, 2000. The open space is named after Ted and Betty Mattive, who generously donated the land to the city. Ted Mattive was a respected and influential figure in Brighton's community. He was a dedicated educator who served as a teacher and principal in the Brighton School District for over three decades. In addition to his contributions to education, Ted Mattive was actively involved in various civic and community organizations.

The land's transition from a former historic farm to a more natural state might have resulted in a gradual natural succession process. The surge in pollinator plant and insect species at Mattive Open Space through conservation efforts can have a positive impact on NDVI values due to several interconnected ecological processes. Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and other insects, play a vital role in pollinating plants. As these pollinators visit flowers to gather nectar and pollen, they transfer pollen between plants, facilitating fertilization and seed production. This process leads to enhanced reproductive success and increased plant growth, resulting in higher vegetation density and improved NDVI values. As ecosystems mature over time, they tend to support a greater diversity of plant species, which can lead to increased NDVI values as vegetation becomes more abundant.

The initial negative decrease in NDVI values at Mattive Open Space might have been influenced by historical land use changes, disturbances, or other environmental factors. The subsequent positive jump in NDVI values could be attributed to successful conservation and restoration efforts that aimed to rehabilitate vegetation, promote pollinator species, reintroduce native plants, control erosion, and create a healthier habitat. The combined effects of these factors over the span of a decade could explain the remarkable shift from negative to positive NDVI values at the site

Study area: 198 acres

The acquisition of the Wagner-Mayhew farmable leased land property by the city of Brighton marks a significant milestone in preserving the historical legacy and natural heritage of the region. The name "Wagner-Mayhew" carries with it a rich history and a deep connection to the individuals who have been stewards of the land over the years. It underscores the importance of honoring those who have cared for the land and who have chosen to protect it through a conservation easement. The land serves as a reminder that the area's past, present, and future are interwoven, and its continued preservation is a testament to the value of maintaining the region's natural landscapes and agricultural heritage.

The minimal change in NDVI values observed over time can be attributed to its rich history as a productive agricultural field that has cultivated a variety of crops such as cabbage, sugar beets, alfalfa, onions, and more. This history of diversified agricultural practices may have played a role in maintaining a relatively stable vegetation cover and overall ecosystem health, resulting in the muted change in NDVI values.

Agricultural fields that have a history of diverse crop rotation practices tend to have a more balanced and resilient ecosystem. Crop rotation helps maintain soil fertility, reduce pest pressure, and improve overall soil health. By rotating its crops like cabbage, sugar beets, alfalfa, and onions, the land could have sustained a consistent vegetation structure, leading to the observed minimal change in NDVI values.

Conservation easements often involve sustainable land management practices that focus on soil health and fertility. Practices like cover cropping, reduced tillage, and organic farming can improve soil structure and nutrient content. Healthy soils support vigorous plant growth, leading to higher NDVI values. The area's historical significance as a former farm may inspire educational and demonstration efforts related to historical agricultural practices. These practices may include traditional crop cultivation methods, heritage plant varieties, and sustainable farming techniques. Such activities can result in a mix of vegetation types and cultivation patterns, potentially influencing NDVI values.

The analysis of NDVI values across various open spaces and natural areas within Brighton, Colorado, provides valuable insights into the dynamic interplay between human activities, conservation efforts, and the environment. The NDVI values reflect changes in vegetation density, health, and composition, offering a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscapes and ecosystems.

The South Platte River, Fulton Ditch, and other water sources have played a pivotal role in shaping Brighton's agriculture and economy, fostering the growth of key crops and supporting a diverse range of plant life. The historical significance of these waterways and the subsequent conservation initiatives, such as the Historic Splendid Valley designation, showcase Brighton's commitment to preserving its agricultural heritage and natural character.

• Ken Mitchell Open Space has demonstrated fluctuations in NDVI values over time. These changes may be attributed to urbanization, land use changes, and the impact of nearby infrastructure like interstates and highways. Despite these challenges, by becoming an open space in 2005 and its restoration as a vital habitat for bald eagles and recreationalists underscore the city's dedication to balancing growth with conservation.

• Erger's Pond has seen transformations in NDVI values due to water augmentation efforts and habitat restoration. These initiatives have positively impacted vegetation growth and aquatic ecosystems. However, it's noteworthy that Erger's Pond has experienced a vegetation decrease in the past decade, highlighting the complexities of environmental management and the need for ongoing monitoring and adaptation.

• Morgan Smith Nature Area's upward trend in NDVI values over the past decades indicates successful restoration efforts, transforming it from a former dump to a thriving wildlife habitat. This transformation underscores the potential for human interventions to restore and rejuvenate natural landscapes.

• Similarly, the restoration of Mattive Open Space from a historic farm to a thriving habitat for pollinator plants and insects highlights the positive impact of conservation efforts on NDVI values. This resurgence in vegetation growth reflects the power of restoration in enhancing ecosystem health and supporting biodiversity.

• The recent acquisition of the Wagner-Mayhew farming property adds another dimension to Brighton's conservation efforts. The muted change in NDVI values (-0.38%, 0.40%, 1.18%) might be influenced by the property's history as a productive agricultural field, which once grew crops like cabbage, sugar beets, alfalfa, and onions. This history of intensive cultivation could have left a lasting impact on the vegetation dynamics and composition.

As Brighton continues to grow rapidly, with expanding populations and urbanization, the NDVI analysis provides critical information for land managers. By quantifying changes in vegetation and ecosystem health, land managers can make informed decisions about land use planning, conservation strategies, and sustainable development. The data collected and insights gained from NDVI assessments will guide future policies, initiatives, and management practices to strike a balance between urban expansion and the preservation of Brighton's unique natural heritage.

1. Species Distribution Modeling: Analyze how changes in NDVI values correlate with the distribution and abundance of plant species. This can provide insights into habitat suitability and biodiversity conservation.

2. Climate Change Resilience: Study the relationship between NDVI trends and climate change impacts, such as temperature and precipitation variability. This can help identify areas that are particularly vulnerable and inform strategies for building resilience.

3. Comparative Studies: Compare NDVI trends in Brighton with neighboring cities also within Colorado's Front Range with similar environments (i.e Thornton, Erie, Greeley) to assess common challenges, successes, and innovative solutions in urban sustainability and conservation.

Other similarly related examples of efforts on this topic area include a paper on using NDVI for greenness exposure assessments and policy interventions in urban greening found on Science Direct:

In addition, a link is provided for NASA Scientific Visualization System’s article on NDVI anomalies revealing areas of likely drought in Colorado: