Detection and Monitoring of Imported Fire Ants Using Remotely Sensed Imagery

It is estimated the economic impact (medical, damage, and pesticide costs) of imported fire ants in the infested southern states is in excess of $1 billion annually. Additionally, approximately 30% of all people in the infested regions are stung on an annual basis. Detection of imported fire ants is an important and outstanding problem. This project will develop technology and methodology to detect and monitor imported fire ants using remotely sensed imagery. This will allow for the assessment of the level of infestion as well as facilitate the implementation of precision intervention techniques.