EMMFOR

Application of modern methods for forest inventories

Achievements

Development of an innovative application of satellite-based technologies for forest inventories.

Brief Description

The use of DGPS, especially the combined use of GPS, EGNOS and further GALILEO, will allow an accelerated and more precise relocation of the sample points. Additional total stations and Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) guide to the sample points even in topographically difficult locations. The project aims at demonstrating advantages and the easy handling of the DGPS method combined with the conventional ground based surveying techniques. Once measured, geographical coordinates of sample plots or certain ground marks can be reused supposed that a stable location measurement was obtained.

Employing high resolution satellite imagery in addition to traditional methods will add further advancements to the satellite navigation component: The high repetition rates, the large aerial coverage, the high geometric accuracy, and the spectral information content bear the potential for rapid, precise, more frequent forest assessments covering larger areas and a broader thematic scope than conventional forest inventories. Earth observation data will be analysed along with traditional data in GIS to derive maximum value of these various types of information.

Important overall improvements and added value in terms of efficiency, accuracy, and information quality will result from the innovative approach of EMMFOR. The user involvement from project start will guarantee the development of a prototype service, which is actually based on the requirements and the financial capabilities of forest management actors.