Quantifying Tree Height Variation Using UAV and Airborne LiDAR

Abstract

Forests are not uniform environments; variations in elevation, sunlight, and edge effects create distinct microhabitats that influence how trees grow and thrive. For example, trees in low-elevation natural forests may exhibit different growth conditions than those at higher elevations, even when other factors remain constant. Uneven sunlight distribution across the canopy further shapes growth patterns. In this pilot study, we compared tree height at forest edges and within the interior of a monoculture stand at the Wright Forestry Center. Tree height was measured from LiDAR and drone-based photogrammetry data. We envision future data collection from additional monocultures and the application of a linear mixed-effects model to further evaluate the robustness and accuracy of our findings