Users, Uses, and Value of Landsat Imagery

To help assess the uses and value of Landsat imagery, social scientists at the USGS Policy Analysis and Science Assistance Branch (PASA) of the Fort Collins Science Center are leading a long-term study that includes surveys and case studies of Landsat imagery users. A series of surveys provides data on how the users and uses of the imagery are changing over time in response to changes in the provision of the imagery and allows analysts to explore the value of the imagery. In 2013, a report with the results of a 2012 survey of over 11,000 current Landsat users was published (Miller and others, 2013; http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2013/1269/pdf/of2013-1269.pdf). The results show that Landsat imagery is applied in projects at multiple scales around the globe by users in all sectors. Also, the annual economic benefit in 2011 from Landsat imagery obtained directly from the USGS was estimated at more than $2 billion. Additionally, in 2013, 25 case studies focusing on the use of Landsat imagery in water applications were completed. These case studies provide an in-depth look at the use of Landsat imagery in water-related applications such as measuring consumptive use, settling water disputes, locating underground water sources, and mapping and monitoring flooding. These efforts document the widespread and increasing use and value of Landsat imagery.

https://www.fort.usgs.gov/landsatsurvey/