Using LiDAR to identify historical features in the White Mountain National Forest
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Authors
Kingston, Hannah
Date
5/3/2018
Type
text
images
poster
images
poster
Language
en_US
Keywords
remote sensing , GIS , LiDAR , archaeology , stone walls , topography , Student Showcase of Research & Engagement 2018
Alternative Title
Abstract
Student Showcase of Research & Engagement 2018
Description
Remote sensing is used to assist in understanding historical land use by identifying unique physical land characteristics that are representative of historical features. Digital elevation models (DEM), representing Earth's bare surface, can be created from light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data. In New England, historical features, including stonewalls, can be digitized using LiDAR-derived DEM products. Common DEM-derived products, such as hillshade, slope, and aspect, are used to manually digitize the areal extent and location of archeological features. These historical features are considered significant sites that require documentation for various land management purposes; particularly within the White Mountain National Forest (WMNF). In 2016, we started a field assessment within the WMNF using line-transect sampling to assess the accuracy of digitized stonewalls. Although we found that common DEM-derived products led to successful identification of stonewalls, methods of digitizing stonewalls that parallel roads were not always accurate and consistent among digitizers. The objective of this project investigates alternative DEM-derived visual renderings by evaluating surface topography to further delineate stonewalls. We found methods of calculating topographic ruggedness more clearly distinguished stonewalls from roads than initial visual products. These results are essential for informing and standardizing digitizing practices for future statewide and regional efforts.
Citation
Publisher
Plymouth State University