Airborne laser mapping
Principal Investigator: Hopkinson, Chris (2)
Licence Number: 16385
Organization: University of Lethbridge
Licensed Year(s): 2019 2018
Issued: Aug 16, 2018
Project Team: Laura Chasmer, Linda Flade, Emily Jones

Objective(s): To develop biomass and forest resource models for GNWT multi source inventory, and to assess how the resource is changing through time and in space due to climate and fire influences.

Project Description: The objective of this study is to collect airborne laser scanning data over biomass plots over NWT. Specifically to develop biomass and forest resource models for GNWT multi source inventory, and to assess how the resource is changing through time and in space due to climate and fire influences. Airborne laser data coverage is calibrated by field plot data (most provided by GNWT) and models are created which are then upscaled to the larger forest covered area of the NWT using machine learning algorithms and supplemental predictor datasets such as Landsat, EOSD, DEM and climatic data layers. Accommodations, vehicle rentals, aircraft rental (Yellowknife and Ft Simpson), media relations, developing new natural resources inventory processes and data layers for GNWT Natural Resources (Hay River) and potentially Geomatics Centre (Yellowknife). Reports to GNWT as well as journal publications and media articles (radio, newspaper, possible CBC / Global news interviews as we have in the past). No explicit plans or invitations to communicate with NWT communities but if GNWT wish us to do this we would be only too happy. The fieldwork for this study will be conducted from August 15, 2018 to December 31, 2018.