Central America and Southern Mexico (Meso America) contain high biodiversity related to the existence of a variety of tropical forest life zones ranging from lowland dry and wet forest too Montane rain forests. Regional deforestation rates are among the highest in the world and the land cover/land use changes have important links to global climate change. Baseline land cover/land use data and compilation of ecological data bases are needed to initiate a comprehensive scientific research program across the Meso American biological corridor.

A three-year project was designed to map and monitor land cover of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor. Participants of this project include personnel from NASA, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the Global Hydrology and Climate Center, National Space Science and Technology Center, the University of Maine, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the Central American Commission for Environment and Development (CCAD). Additionally, there are representatives participating from each of the seven Central American countries.

Project web site