Abstract:

Four key issues on the development of remote sensing application in Chinese forestry are presented in this paper. The functions of remote sensing in forest resource inventory and management activities should be fully and comprehensively understood.Based on this understanding, remote sensing application should become a necessary part of various forestry regulations, and be applied widely. It was only mentioned in visual interpretation is not enough. The area statistic, accuracy evaluation and final outcome should be mentioned too. In addition, remote sensing is not a versatile tool, one should make best use of its advantages and avoid its disadvantages, some issues such as tree species recognition are not feasible to write in the regulations. The remote sensing data with high spatial resolution should be suitably applied, according to the current situations of China, especially the needs of the on-going programs. Otherwise, the costs will be unreasonably increased not only, the real needs can not be met but also.So to analyze input-output should be make. It is necessary to introduce new theories and technologies from other disciplinarians too, including fractal theory and huge database technology like Oracle etc. Having more training courses and making demonstration in suitable places is essential for promoting the application of remote sensing in Chinese forestry in the near future.

Key words: remote sensing, development of remote sensing, Chinese forestry