Drone Imaging and Aerial Surveys

WOODLAND DATA GENERATION AND AERIAL IMAGING

It is now possible to augment our traditional activities with the latest emerging technology. Drone surveys of woodlands enable a new way to visualise, understand and extract information to support a range of uses, including;

Woodland Visualisation

Building upon traditional surveys, the ability to image a large area in one continuous photograph allows for enhanced understanding of the topology, structure and species distribution across a woodland site at a snapshot in time. Typically performed with a visual resolution below 1 inch, these ‘orthomosiac’ photographs allow managers and owners to engage with the woodland in a simple and holistic way, supporting management decisions, capital works planning (such as access route planning) and contractor engagement.

Complex sites / CCF mapping and data extraction

For complex sites or sites managed to Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF) ideals, use of aerial data supports map making and compartmenting decisions. The data generated is accurate, measurable and 3 dimensional, meaning heights are extracted alongside traditional area measurements. This can give estimations of stocking density and vegetation heights. Areas of unshaded new planting or regeneration can be identified and used to display stand development over time. Canopy cover across the woodland can be measured resulting in better targeting of thinning operations.

Windblow Surveys / Disease / Insurance Evidencing

Aerial data can be used to identify areas of windblow. This helps to evidence insurance claims and plan for restocking. Tree health concerns such as ash dieback can be observed, and badly affected stems can be targeted for removal. Crucially for plant health, the images provide a detailed view of the uppermost sections of the crown, allowing for a viewpoint not available during ground-based studies.

Bespoke Solutions for any Query

These services describe only a few suggestions for the uses of aerial data collection. Whether for scientific research or personal interest, a method of data collection can be designed to meet your needs.