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Use of Aerial Hyperspectral Imaging For Monitoring Forest Health

Informally Refereed

Abstract

This project evaluates the effectiveness of aerial hyperspectral digital imagery in the assessment of forest health of loblolly stands in central Alabama. The imagery covers 50 square miles, in Bibb and Hale Counties, south of Tuscaloosa, AL, which includes intensive managed forest industry sites and National Forest lands with multiple use objectives. Loblolly stands on upland sites within this area have a history of decline, root deterioration, and periodic severe southern pine beetle infestations. Forest Health Monitoring plots have been established throughout Alabama and other Southern States within the loblolly ecosystem. Additional Evaluation Monitoring (EM) plots are also established in the hyperspectral imagery assess-ment area. The database of the EM plots provides detailed information on soils, tree crown indicators of decline conditions, and root health/root pathogen interactions. The EM data provides reference points for the hyperspectral imagery.

Parent Publication

Citation

Smith, Milton O.; Hess, Nolan J.; Gulick, Stephen, Jr.; Eckhardt, Lori G.; Menard, Roger D. 2004. Use of Aerial Hyperspectral Imaging For Monitoring Forest Health. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS–71. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pp. 166-168
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/6633