Assessment of changes in Aerial Extent of Lake Chad using Satellite Remote Sensing Data

Abstract

The study assessed the changes in the aerial extent of Lake Chad using satellite based data sources between 1963 and 2000. The results of the analysis show that Lake Chad has shrunk more than 95% of its area within the period of study. The study observers that aside from climatic variability, proliferation of dams, water supply and irrigation projects along the major rivers that drain into the Lake from the Nigeria Sector of the Lake are possible explanations for the drying of Lake Chad. The study recommends some research and development efforts to save Lake Chad from total extinction.