RESEARCH INTERESTS
Using remote sensing tools to map structural biodiversity indicators in forested systems
MAPPING KEYSTONE STRUCTURES WITH AIRBORNE LIDAR
In the conifer forests of northwestern USA, both standing dead trees (known as snags) and woodpecker cavities are considered to be keystone structures – meaning they are important for wildlife communities and can increase diversity. By employing a suite of tools for remotely characterizing forests, I strive to better detect and locate such biodiversity indicators across dense forested landscapes.
Individual tree detection from airborne lidar
In the conifer forests of northwestern USA, both standing dead trees (known as snags) and woodpecker cavities are considered to be keystone structures – meaning they are important to wildlife communities and can increase biodiversity. By employing a suite of tools for remotely characterizing forests, I want to strive to better detect and locate these biodiversity indicators across dense forested landscapes.
Measuring woodpecker cavity size via handheld lidar
Multiple species of woodpecker can co-occur within forest stands, and each creates a different size of cavity entrance which is tied to the bird's body size. These cavities are also very important for other wildlife, making them keystone structures. However, measuring cm-large objects at the top of dead trees by hand is dangerous, so being able to remotely evaluate these dimensions can provide valuable info that was previously inaccessible.
