AbstractThe paper presents an example of the application of remote‐sensing techniques in peat resource investigations. The study was carried out in the Zoigê region. The optimal imagery time ( during October) and the optimal band (MSS7) of Landsat data were selected. The preferred images were processed optically and by computer and interpreted in a comprehensive way. And in‐situ spectrum measurements and drilling verification were carried out. The identification signature of the peat bogs in Zoigê was defined. The feature of the identification signature for peat was that the peat bog area showed a dark tone with lower reflectance in images of the four MSS bands. The distribution range of peat bogs in the region was exactly located. The types of peat bogs were distinguished. The total peat area of 4038 km2was defined with a total reserve of 5 billion m3. The result of the study indicates that the large‐area, small‐scale investigation of peat resources by use of satellite remote‐sensing data is an advanced method, by which the work efficiency can increase by abo