New NLCD data rollout

[ksmiff33]

Not essential right now, but the National Land Cover Database released a new product that features annual estimates of land cover type. Here's some language from their website:

"Annual NLCD involves a new methodology using an ensemble of chained deep learning models and harmonic time series analysis. This method supports the creation of validated annual land cover and related products crossing nearly 4 decades and updated on an annual basis. Starting in 2024, USGS is producing an annual record of land cover and fractional impervious surface for the conterminous U.S. initially covering the period from 1985 to 2023. An annual update frequency is planned to be rolled out in 2025."

A benefit here is rather than relying on simple interpolation between survey years, now we have an annualized product built on much more sophisticated interpolation methods. Basically, this will provide a more robust glimpse of land cover changes over time.