Files
Abstract
ABSTRACT
New ways to acquire aerial imagery are improving access to high-resolution aerial imagery products for research and commercial applications. While high costs have historically limited access to aerial imagery for most organizations, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are enabling broader integration of imagery and geospatial data products to document and visualize landscapes of interest. It is more affordable than ever to acquire the necessary UAS equipment and computer software and hardware to create 3D models, digital elevation models (DEMs), and ultra-high (<10cm) resolution orthomosaic imagery. This study describes a UAS-based field survey methodology and image processing workflow used to map native, exotic and invasive aquatic vegetation. It discusses the merits and limitations of UAS for large reservoir management and ecological monitoring purposes. The results demonstrate the capacity of small UAS to survey, map, and detect features of interest over a large area and support the viability of UAS for vegetation surveying.
New ways to acquire aerial imagery are improving access to high-resolution aerial imagery products for research and commercial applications. While high costs have historically limited access to aerial imagery for most organizations, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are enabling broader integration of imagery and geospatial data products to document and visualize landscapes of interest. It is more affordable than ever to acquire the necessary UAS equipment and computer software and hardware to create 3D models, digital elevation models (DEMs), and ultra-high (<10cm) resolution orthomosaic imagery. This study describes a UAS-based field survey methodology and image processing workflow used to map native, exotic and invasive aquatic vegetation. It discusses the merits and limitations of UAS for large reservoir management and ecological monitoring purposes. The results demonstrate the capacity of small UAS to survey, map, and detect features of interest over a large area and support the viability of UAS for vegetation surveying.