How Centralparks uses LiDAR

The LiDAR survey is a method of the 3D scanning procedures and sensory remote sensing technologies. Here is how and where Centralparks partners use it.

How Centralparks uses LiDAR?

Centralparks partners use LiDAR in the selected pilot area to measure the distance with the use of laser rays from a plane. Scientists point these lasers in the direction of the Earth-Centerpoint to surface modeling from the generated point-cloud. 

With the current instruments (e.g. Leica), we are collecting the part-reflection of the discharged pulse. This allows us to obtain information from the absolute route of the given bunch. 

Different part-reflections from the given bunch, however, can be aggregated separately through the first (canopy level), the lowest (ground level) and the reflections in between. Such method is unique in that it allows for the reflection from the different heights to be aggregated and filtered. It is for this reason, why we can prepare a surface model (from the closest points – DSM) and a digital relief model (from filtering the furthest reflections – DEM) from just one measurement.

Where exactly are we piloting LiDAR?

Centralparks partners implement LiDAR laser scanning technology in the south of the Kemence-river’s valley. This valley is often called the ’central volcanic area’. It covers most of the planned ‘A zone’ (according to the IUCN criteria); the Szent Mihály-mountain’s block and the smaller part of the Ipoly-valley (for testing purposes).

Achieving bigger goals with LiDAR

Our primary goal is to make time-series comparison of the development of forest cutting and monitoring of natural disturbance. Another usability of the gained data, however, is that it allows for prediction of species. Such prediction is based on the collected biotic data and modeling procedures. Furthermore, with the fine resolution relief models, Centralparks partners can also map the archeological pieces of evidence. These, for example, include soil castles and mines. 

The vegetation or tree heights models are very important qualities behind habitat desciption. They help to indicate the unnatural stands, while also capturing the young stands. Moreover, with the LiDAR method, we can also dig into the the inner structure of the wood stands. These include the presence of the shrub éevel and the heights of the dominant canopy. All this data is crucial when it comes to protecting forests in that it allows for better forest management planning. 

Last but not least, to plan the future water management and water retention – with the use of LiDAR we also prepared flooding models for the Ipoly river valley (see the below image). To learn more about LiDAR methodology read our previous deliverables and outputs here.