LiDAR

The Canadian Forest Service’s Canadian Wood Fibre Centre and its research partners are testing several remote sensing technologies for inventory applications. One showing particular promise is LiDAR (light detection and ranging) technology. LiDAR is not a new technology, but its use in forest inventory applications is relatively recent.

Image: Murray Woods, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources

LiDAR can be acquired from the ground, aircraft and, although rare, satellite platforms. Many thousands of laser pulses provide direct three-dimensional measurements of the structure of vegetation and the underlying terrain. Digital elevation models and remarkably accurate forest inventory data can be derived. This information can be used for many other forestry-related activities, including the mapping of hydrologic features (such as rivers, floodplains and wetlands) and the planning of corridors such as roads. Used in combination with other data sources, such as multispectral optical imagery, LiDAR is changing the way conventional forest inventory is being conducted.

Some limitations with the technology are still being addressed—for example, how to enhance the accuracy of the data in hilly terrain, and their ability to show surface texture. However, as LiDAR continues to be refined, researchers are optimistic that the technology could revolutionize forest sector management and production in Canada.