Remote sensing

 

Introduction

The term remote sensing (RS), sometimes referred to as Earth Observation (EO), covers a wide range of image types (black and white photos to colour data in the form of multi- or hyperspectral images). These can be obtained from airborne platforms such as aeroplanes and helicopters, spaceborne platforms such as satellites and also sometimes from ground-based systems. It includes the aerial photos that form the backbone of many current FC systems. Remote sensing provides a complementary means of obtaining forest information and monitoring forest management to that provided by traditional field survey.

RS has the potential to make a significant contribution to many key FC policies and initiatives such as international reporting, reporting against indicators in the country and DA strategies, delivering Key Performance Indicators, Business Improvement and Plant Health Regulation. Potential benefits to the wider sector are principally related to business efficiency through improved surveying, mapping and production forecasting. 

This website aims at transferring knowledge on RS data and techniques for use by the Forestry Commission and the UK forest industry in general. It is provided by the Forestry Commission in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh (Edinburgh Earth Observatory research group) and acts as a focal point for researchers and users alike to access tutorials and information on remote sensing data, products and processes with respect to UK forestry.

Example of LiDAR-derived above ground carbon content for a UK deciduous woodland.

The Remote Sensing Integration Group (RSIG)

The FC’s Remote Sensing Integration Group investigates the capability of existing RS systems to develop a strategic view on the application of RS in the forestry sector.  Seventeen possible applications of RS for forestry were recently identified, of which four were prioritised:

• Compliance monitoring (establishment and illegal fellings).
• Discrimination and mapping (forest vs. non-forest and conifer vs. broadleaved species).
• Rapid identification and mapping of windblow.
• Production forecasting (especially for the private sector where inventory data are limited).

The Remote Sensing Integration Group (RSIG) has the objective of ensuring, where appropriate, effective co-ordination of remote sensing research and development across the Forestry Commission GB. All main parts of the Forestry Commission with an active interest in remote sensing are represented within the RSIG. It provides a remote sensing forum to promote technology transfer as well as to exchange information and experience across participating departments and countries by sharing information and conducting co-operative projects.  The RSIG is chaired by Helen McKay (who is also the FC lead on DEFRA Earth Observation Forum) and meets at least twice a year. It has the following main functions:

• Review the status of remote sensing technology and applications relevant to the Forestry Commission.
• Promote remote sensing applications for cost effective sustainable forest management.
• Exchange information on business drivers and priorities.
• Formulate and oversee remote sensing application projects to deliver programmes that are funded by the FC’s Corporate & Forestry Support department and its Operational Support Unit.