Advanced mapping techniques applied to wetland drone base information

Wetlands are habitats for many fishes, aquatic invertebrates, waterfowl, and other wildlife. Wetlands are also important for peoples daily lives. They can renovate freshwater, store flood, and provide fishery resources. However, wetlands are being destroyed and polluted at alarming rates worldwide. This research tries to understand the current wetlands extent and states in mid-Alberta, Canada. We use an emergent Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) and cutting-edge computer techniques to map wetland vegetation species and communities. Results of this research will help the public and policy-makers better know and conserve current wetlands in central Alberta. Fiera Biological Consulting Ltd. will also benefit from this research in enhancing their expertise in wetlands monitoring.

Faculty Supervisor:

Arturo Sanchez-Azofeifa

Student:

Cao Sen

Partner:

Fiera Biological Consulting Ltd

Discipline:

Geography / Geology / Earth science

Sector:

Environmental industry

University:

University of Alberta