Aerial Topo Mapping

Aerial Topo Mapping is similar to Aerial Mapping, but adds a third dimension by mapping elevation. Aerial Topo Mapping can be achieved using two different techniques: Structure from Motion, and LiDAR.

Structure from Motion topo mapping is a form of photogrammetry, and uses many overlapping images, taken from different vantage points (stereoscopic vision) and geometry to reconstruct a landscape in three dimensions.

LiDAR topo mapping uses a Light Detection and Ranging payload to repeatedly measure the distance between the sensor and the objects below - trees, buildings, ground, water. The collection of measurements are combined into a digital elevation model of the landscape.

False color image of a digital elevation model (DEM) of the drift creek estuary in Oregon showing lower elevations in blues and greens, and higher elevations in yellows, oranges, and reds.

Better insights with custom elevation data

➜ Capture the intricacies of 3D terrain and features seamlessly in DEM and point cloud data formats.

➜ Allow stakeholders the convenience and immersion of touring your site remotely through a 3D Story Map

A false color digital elevation model (DEM) of the Hearthwood wetland in Oregon showing lower elevations in purples, and blues, and higher elevations in greens and yellows.

Bridge the gap between intricate data and tangible understanding

➜ Witness and measure the evolution of topographic shifts over time using repeated Aerial Topo Maps.

➜ Engaging, insightful, and cutting-edge. Our interactive 3D Story Maps are tailored not only to provide comprehensive data but also to captivate the next generation of followers

Deliverables

✔︎ High resolution elevation data in raster format (GeoTIFF) or point cloud (.las)

✔︎ Compatible with all major GIS software suites

✔︎ Pair with our GIS Analysis service to turn raw data into insights:

  • cut/fill analysis, Canopy Height Model (CHM), erosion and deposition, stockpile volumes, cross-section analysis, and more.

What Our Partners Say

  • "Nick Wagner and his crew at ForeSight Drone Services were thoughtful, organized and efficient throughout the whole process. They were able to adapt to changing study plans on the fly in response to unforeseen changes in landowner permissions. We would happily work with them again."

    Casey Justice, Fishery Biologist, CRITFC

  • "Nick is considered a world expert in flying this UAS and after spending a week in training with him, I understand why. Nick has an excellent work ethic and enthusiasm for instruction. He is extremely organized, reliable and has excellent communication skills..."

    Melissa Cook, Ph.D., Research Fishery Biologist, NOAA

  • “The whole process working with [ForeSight] so far has been great. You took my vision and turned it into a reality, producing some really useful and well-organized data/files.”

    Jack Halsey, Executive Director, Oswego Lake Watershed Council

  • “Nick went above and beyond for us and we greatly appreciate his skill and professionalism.”

    Matt Benotsch, Greenbelt Land Trust

  • “Drones are incredible tools for viewing wetlands and for helping us bring the magic of the wetland to those who aren’t able to don waders and tromp through it themselves.”

    Katie Ryan, Executive Director, The Wetlands Conservancy

  • “Native Fish Society is really grateful to have Nick collaborating with us and lending his skills to our conservation work in the Oregon Coast Range.”

    Jennifer Fairbrother, Conservation Director, Native Fish Society

Our Work Process

1

Planning

Based on your needs, we develop an appropriate flight plan to capture your area of interest. We plan for the resolution needed to get the data you need, with the accuracy you demand. We handle all FAA authorizations, planning for hazards, and logistics of flight operations.

2

Pre-Production

Select the right payload for the job: RGB (Red, Green, Blue) for Structure from Motion or a LiDAR payload with the right specifications for your requirements.

3

Field Operations

Our team of FAA Part 107 certified pilots will come to your site and fly an automated flight path to capture many overlapping images or LiDAR data over the entire area of interest. One or many flights may be needed depending on the size of the area. We deploy a series of Ground Control Points (GCPs) to ensure the accuracy needed to integrate with existing datasets, and for future repeatability.

4

Post-Processing

We use specialized software and high performance computers to correct for lens distortion and digitally “stitch” all of the images together into one large, orthorectified and geolocated image - an orthomosaic. Additionally, Structure from Motion processing uses stereoscopic geometry to generate a Digital Elevation Model (DEM). Or, with LiDAR, the point-cloud is filtered and classified to ensure a high quality final product.

5

Analysis

Once you have an orthomosaic and DEM, or point cloud, the possibilities for GIS analysis for classification, counting, measuring and making insights is limitless. Explore our GIS Analysis offerings.

Applications

See our comprehensive list of applications for aerial imagery and topo mapping.

  • With climate change and warmer waters threatening ecological collapse, practitioners are prioritizing riparian canopy cover for cooler waters and improved habitat. CHM's are the tool for analyzing the current conditions on a landscape scale, and prioritizing limited resources to the reaches with the greatest potential impact.

  • Comparing elevation models over time can reveal insights about the movement of soils and water in dynamic landscapes, or in ongoing restoration projects. Measure changes for better planning, and reporting.

  • An invaluable tool in river restoration, for baseline assessments, monitoring changes, and identifying restoration opportunities.

  • Elevation plays a huge role in riparian planting plans, and river, estuary, and wetland restoration. At less than 5cm/pixel, drone-based Aerial Topo Mapping provides rich elevation data on the landscape scale.

  • Elevation data assists in identifying low-lying or subsiding areas that are particularly vulnerable to sea level rise. This information is crucial for prioritizing adaptation efforts and implementing protective measures.

  • Aspect, slope, and elevation all factor in to micro-habitats and ecological niches. Rich elevation data inform precision planting plans for higher diversity and survival rates.

FEATURED CASE STUDY

Quantifying Oregon State Forest Landslides Using UAV Structure from Motion

 FAQs

  • Aerial Topo Mapping is a technique for creating three-dimensional maps of a landscape. It involves capturing elevation data along with traditional two-dimensional mapping to provide a comprehensive topographical view.

  • While standard aerial mapping provides a two-dimensional view of an area, aerial topo mapping adds a third dimension, mapping elevation to give a more detailed and accurate representation of the landscape and vegetation.

  • Structure from Motion (SfM) is a photogrammetry technique using overlapping images from different vantage points to reconstruct a landscape in 3D. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) involves using laser pulses to measure distances to the ground and objects, creating a digital elevation model.

  • Each method has its advantages. SfM is often more cost-effective and can provide high-resolution images. LiDAR is highly accurate, particularly in dense vegetation areas, and is less affected by lighting conditions.

  • Yes, both SfM and LiDAR are effective in various environments, including forested and urban areas. LiDAR is particularly advantageous when ground elevation is needed beneath a dense canopy.

  • Applications include urban planning, environmental studies, flood risk assessment, river geomorphology, habitat assessments, sustainable forestry, archaeology, and many more.

  • The accuracy depends on the technique used and the conditions of the survey. ForeSight can provide data that meets your accuracy needs.

  • We provide the data in various digital formats, compatible with GIS and other analysis software, according to client specifications.

  • Absolutely, the topographical data we provide can be integrated with existing GIS databases for more comprehensive analysis.

  • Aerial Topo Mapping may be subject to aviation and privacy laws. We ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and obtain necessary permts.

Other Services

  • 360° Virtual Tours

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  • Aerial Mapping

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  • 3D Story Mapping

    Wow funders with guided virtual tours of your site in 3D. Engage the next generation of supporters.

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  • Photo-Point Monitoring

    Tell the story of seasonal and restoration changes on a landscape scale

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  • Aerial Photo & Video

    Tell the story of your work with rich and eye-catching visuals from above

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  • GIS Analysis

    Turn raw aerial data into actionable insights. Answer research questions and report to stakeholders.

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  • Drone Training

    Build drone capacity in-house. We develop custom curricula tailored to your organization and team needs.

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Interested in aerial topo mapping?

Stay informed with the latest updates! Learn how Foresight Drones is collaborating with local organizations to positively influence the Pacific Northwest ecology.