How laser mapping is used
Because Lidar data can be manipulated in a number of ways it is incredibly versatile and its uses are not limited to archaeology.
Lidar can be used to identify veteran trees which are of great ecological and historical significance. In processing the Lidar it is possible to remove the landscape to leave just the trees. These can be examined to identify trees of a desired height, form and crown width to isolate potential veteran tree candidates.
Combined with near infra-red imagery and aerial photography we can even focus on particular species. Similar processes can be used to monitor scrub growth or erosion and identify particular habitats.
LiDAR provides valuable information for land management, grazing schemes and stream restoration projects and also helps to identify ‘palaeochannels’ (the remnants of old river systems).
