Detecting Wetlands within the Gomoa East District of Ghana through the Lenses of Sentinel-1 SAR Data Using Google Earth Engine for Ecosystem Conservation and Water Resource Management

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of wetlands within The Gomoa East District of Ghana using the powerful synergy of Sentinel-1 Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data and the Google Earth Engine platform. The primary objective was to assess the status of wetlands in the region and evaluate their implications for ecosystem conservation and water resource management. Through the integration of multi-temporal SAR data, the study identified wetland areas and changes in their spatial distribution over time. Notably, the results revealed a concerning degradation of wetlands, with a loss of 260040 square meters in wetland areas, underscoring the critical need for conservation efforts. The study showcases the potential of Sentinel-1 SAR data and Google Earth Engine as valuable tools for monitoring wetlands, emphasizing their pivotal role in environmental sustainability and community well-being. Conservation strategies are imperative to safeguard these vital ecosystems and ensure a sustainable future. This research contributes to the knowledge base for wetland preservation and supports informed decision-making for the environmental management and ecological health of Gomoa East District in Ghana.