Environmental Studies

There are a number of applications for LiDAR / Aerial Photography within Environmental Studies.

LiDAR Applications:

Forest Environment:

LiDAR is capable of penetrating even very thick forest canopies. We are able to image all levels of the forest from the canopy to the small shrubs in the understory. The image to the right shows a typical LiDAR profile view of a forest notice the detail in the tree (trunks - branches - leaves) and in the understory. We are able to produce maps that show vegetation density for any or all intervals. This can be used to model mammal habitat, and also carbon sequestration to fire loads.

Wetlands:

Most LiDAR sensors, including the ones we use, utilize a Near Infra Red (NIR) wavelength of light. NIR is strongly absorbed by water. As such wetlands show up very well on LiDAR imagery. Even small ponds / swamps only a meter or two across will show up. Combined with the topographic data, a very accurate map of the wetlands can be produced. The image above shows how much NIR light has been reflected. There are two swampy areas in the center (dark colors) well drained soils show up as light tones.

Creeks/Rivers:

LiDAR is able to produce stunning maps that show where channels are, where they will be during high water events, and even where they were in the past. This is very valuable information for people interested in all kinds of aquatic life - fish to dragonfly nymphs.

Samantha Jones, Project Manager

"The data set Eagle Mapping provided exceeded the high-density, horizontal and vertical specifications we requested, and it was very affordable...we have been able to use your survey for other tasks, such as hydraulic modeling, preliminary design work, surface analysis. wetland evaluations, and hydrologic studies. Without doubt, we will be using Eagle Mapping again on future projects. Thank you for the great data and outstanding service."

Paul Pittman, L.E.G., Associate - Earth Sciences Director