A comparison of existing surficial hydrological data layers in a low-relief forested Ontario landscape with those derived from a LiDAR DEM

Abstract

The current provincial-extent digital elevation model (DEM) and corresponding hydrological maps for Ontario have been produced using traditional photogrammetry and aerial photograph interpretation. This process is labour-intensive and requires visual interpretation of stereo image pairs. The ground surface and small hydrological features may be inaccurately delineated in areas where vegetation is dense or the ground is otherwise shielded from aerial view. In an effort to improve and automate delineation of hydrological features, we examined the behaviour and final products of the D8 flowrouting algorithm in 2 software environments (TAS and TauDEM for ArcGIS) operating on a high spatial resolution DEM derived using canopy-penetrating light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology in a pilot study in the Romeo Malette Forest (41.25°N, 81.50°W). Filtered LiDAR data points (5-m spacing) were interpolated using IDW, TIN, and splines, each resulting in a 2.5-m spatial resolution DEM. Results demonstrate improved realism in the characterization of surficial hydrology by LIDAR derived products as compared to applying identical algorithms on existing coarser provincial data. Benefits include the ability to represent streams of lower Strahler order to define crisp watershed boundaries, and the more accurate identification of local depressions that form potentially wet sites. This approach identifies wet sites that should be avoided during forest operations (e.g., skidder traffic) and can provide additional information for trail layout, road planning, and water crossings. By increasing the number of uses of LiDAR, the capital investment in these data becomes increasingly palatable for forest companies interested in obtaining detailed plans of their forest holdings. 25°N, 81,50°W). Les points de lidar filtrés (espacement de 5 m) ont été interpolés en utilisant les techniques i) de pondération par la distance inversée, ii) de réseau triangulé irrégulier et iii) de fonctions splines, ayant pour résultat une MAN de résolution spatiale de 2,5 m. Nos résultats démontrent le réalisme amélioré dans la caractérisation de l'hydrologie superficielle par les produits dérivés du lidar par rapport à l'application des mêmes algorithmes sur les données provinciales existantes grossières. Les avantages incluent la capacité de représenter les cours d' eau d' ordre de Strahler inférieur, la définition nette des frontières des bassins hydrologiques et l'identification plus précise des dépressions locales qui forment les zones humides potentielles. Cette approche identifie les zones humides qui devraient être évités pendant les opérations forestières (p. ex., le débusquage) et peuvent fournir des informations supplémentaires pour la disposition des pistes, la planification des routes, et le franchissement des cours d' eau. En élargissant le nombre d'utilisations du lidar, l'investissement en capital dans cette technologie devient de plus en plus attrayant pour les organisations forestières intéressées à obtenir des plans détaillés de ...

Sensitivity of watershed attributes to spatial resolution and interpolation method of LiDAR DEMs in three distinct landscapes

“…For example, Remmel et al . [] indicated the LiDAR DEM implemented in their study was created with an unknown interpolation method implemented by the service provider.…”

“…In addition, the LiDAR DEM produced a delineated watershed area which was 15% larger and with more detailed boundaries, analyzed through a visual inspection, than that derived from the photogrammetric DEM. Remmel et al [2008] compared a 20 m photogrammetrically derived DEM with a 5 m LiDAR DEM resampled to 2.5 m. It was found that the high spatial resolution provided by the LiDAR DEM allowed a better prediction of smaller stream segments, improved definition on watershed extents, and provided details on areas of soil saturation which could improve management decisions of forest harvests. Barber and Shortridge [2005] reported that LiDAR-derived DEMs offered limited advantage for basin delineation over medium resolution DEMs, as source and resolution resulted in only minor differences.…”

“…The choice of interpolation method for DEM generation is often made by LiDAR service providers on the basis of efficiency in data processing, and not optimized for intended DEM products. For example, Remmel et al [2008] indicated the LiDAR DEM implemented in their study was created with an unknown interpolation method implemented by the service provider.…”

Multi-cohort stand structure as a coarse filter of variation in mixedwood boreal bird communities

“…), black spruce (Picea mariana [Mill.] BSP), and white spruce (Picea glauca [Moench] Voss) (Remmel et al 2008).…”

Lineament mapping for groundwater exploration using remotely sensed imagery in a karst terrain : Rio Tanama and Rio de Arecibo basins in the northern karst of Puerto Rico

“…LiDAR data provides a good representation of the topography because LiDAR pulses will pass through the gaps in vegetation to provide ground elevation measurements (Korpela 2008). Remmel et al (2008) used a LiDAR DEM and derived data such as slopes and surface aspect to delineate surface hydrologic features (low order springs, watershed boundaries and depressions) for hydrogeological modeling. Despite the previous applications of LiDAR in hydrology, ground truthing LiDAR and other remote sensing data still remains crucial (Hawbaker et al 2009).…”