Module 2 - Forestry and LiDAR

 

LiDAR Analysis of Shenandoah National Park Forest

This second laboratory assignment of the course involved the use of LiDAR data from the United States Geological Survey and altering it to create meaningful data for foresters. The data produced in this lab is useful because it can aid in determining overall forest health. Knowledge is critical in managing forests, and knowing where trees lie within the park, areas where there is old vs. new growth, and tree density patterns is of the utmost important in determining best management methods. Forest management methods are complex and require forest data to determine best practices. It is unique in this instance, as one does not have to go out in the field or even be near the forest to learn quite a bit  about it. Ultimately, foresters can use this data  to determine where they should plant more trees, where controlled burns should take place, and areas that should be protected. 

Initially, I had to process the .las file download by converting it to a raster using the LAS Dataset to Raster Spatial Analyst tool. I ran this tool twice with different inputs, once for the DEM and once for the DSM. Upon completion of this, I was able to use the DSM and DEM in the minus tool to find the tree height. I used the attribute table from this output to create the 'Tree Height Distribution' bar graph found in my layout above. To create my Canopy Density layer, I utilized the LAS to Multipoint, Count, Is Null, Con, Plus, and Float geoprocessing tools. I modified the symbology of each of the layers to stretched color schemes to highlight different values within the dataset.

I enjoyed using an abundance of new tools and processes in this lab. It was fascinating seeing how the single LiDAR file could be transformed into so many different layers, all with useful indications and patterns. Analyses like these are going to be critical in monitoring deforestation, and should be utilized (if not already) in the Amazon Basin. Having a spatial and temporal understanding of forest health will be instrumental in targeting areas that are being illegally forested (often for agricultural use). I believe it is vital to have the knowledge of where trees lie, how tall they stand, and what this means for a forest's future. I will certainly use the skills gained in this lab in my future endeavors and am excited to have had more practice in LiDAR analysis.