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Lidar intensity for improved detection of inundation below the forest canopy

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Abstract

Wetland hydrology is an important factor controlling wetland function and extent, and should therefore be a vital part of any wetland mapping program. Broad-scale forested wetland hydrology has been difficult to study with conventional remote sensing methods. Airborne Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is a new and rapidly developing technology. LiDAR data have mainly been used to derive information on elevation. However, the intensity (amplitude) of the signal has the potential to significantly improve the ability to remotely monitor inundation — an important component of wetland hydrology. A comparison between LiDAR intensity data collected during peak hydrologic expression and detailedin situ data from a series of forested wetlands on the eastern shore of Maryland demonstrate the strong potential of LiDAR intensity data for this application (>96% overall accuracy). The relative ability of LiDAR intensity data for forest inundation mapping was compared with that of a false color near-infrared aerial photograph collected coincident with the LiDAR intensity (70% overall accuracy; currently the most commonly used method for wetland mapping) and a wetness index map derived from a digital elevation model. The potential of LiDAR intensity data is strong for addressing issues related to the regulatory status of wetlands and measuring the delivery of ecosystem services.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Remote Sensing and Hydrology Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, USDA-ARS, Bldg 007, Rm 104, 10300 Baltimore Ave., 20705, Beltsville, Maryland, USA

    Megan W. Lang & Greg W. McCarty

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  1. Megan W. Lang
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  2. Greg W. McCarty
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Correspondence to Megan W. Lang.

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Lang, M.W., McCarty, G.W. Lidar intensity for improved detection of inundation below the forest canopy. Wetlands 29, 1166–1178 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1672/08-197.1

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