GIS: 5100 - Module 2 - LiDAR

In this lab, we saw how LiDAR can be used to analyze forest structure using ArcGIS Pro. The lab focused on a forested area in Virginia, where we downloaded and processed LiDAR data to model terrain, vegetation height, and canopy density.

The above maps are as follows. Map 1- Canopy Density Map. Map 2- Tree Heights Map. Map 3 - Terrain Map.

We started the lab by downloading a compressed .laz file from the Virginia LiDAR application. We then converted it into usable data in ArcGIS Pro. I create a DEM and DSM using the data. We subtracted the DSM from the DEM to determine tree height. We calculated the canopy density by comparing the vegetation and ground LiDAR points. Finally, we created a histogram and our maps.

The key takeaways from this lab were that LiDAR can be a handy tool for the analysis of forest canopies and ground points. Another is that this information can be very important to helping foresters do their job. Overall, I think I learned a lot from this lab, and it was very useful information.