Developing methods for quantifying leaf area index (LAI) using multi-EO RPAS in disturbed and regenerating post-disturbance ecosystems

Leaf Area Index (LAI) is an important variable to measure when revegetating and reclaiming disturbed ecosystems. Estimating LAI from models using remotely sensed data is becoming increasingly common; Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems, or ‘RPAS’ in particular, have the potential to grow in importance as they can acquire the fine scale spatial data necessary to accurately quantify LAI in complex reclamation environments. This project seeks to develop innovative methods for estimating LAI using RPAS optical 2D, 3D photogrammetric or “structure from motion”, and lidar data. Here we aim to work with Integral Ecology Group (IEG) to determine the efficacy of methods and results for reclamation monitoring. IEG believes remote sensing data will play an important role in future reclamation practices. They will benefit by the adoption of the methods developed by the Mitacs intern for collection and processing of UAV acquired data for accurate LAI estimation.

Faculty Supervisor:

Christopher Hopkinson;Laura Chasmer

Student:

Partner:

Integral Ecology Group

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Lethbridge

Program: