Note
"January, 2002."
"Submitted by Tom Howell, RCMP E Division, Drug Enforcement Branch."
Summary
This technical report provides a summary of a pilot project carried out by RADARSAT International for the RCMP Drug Enforcement Branch, under Operation SABOT, to demonstrate the potential for the application of high resolution satellite imagery and related spatial analysis to the RCMP’s efforts to eradicate marihuana outdoor grow operations. This project involved two separate but complementary streams development of geographical information systems (GIS) to determine areas with the highest potential for marihuana growth, and Image Analysis of these potential sites to further interpret images. Thereby either supporting or refuting the idea that marihuana is being grown in the specific locations. Once grow locations are confirmed both in the imagery and through the GIS analysis, final validation can take place via aerial reconnaissance. Through the steps of satellite image analysis and cross correlation with the GIS data layers, the analysis process takes us from a list of potential sites, to probable sites, thereby aiding in the location of outdoor marihuana grow operations.