Unraveling the Impacts of Water Level Changes with LIDAR drone data

Water bodies have long been essential to the survival and cultural heritage of many indigenous communities. However, the delicate balance between nature and human intervention can be disrupted by external factors, leading to adverse effects on the environment and the people who depend on it. 

In this blog post, we will explore how Candrone's LiDAR mapping services of the shoreline played a crucial role in understanding and modeling the impacts of rising water levels on the First Nations' environment. 

 Often lakes hold immense cultural, ecological, and economic value for First Nations communities residing in its vicinity. It is a vital source of sustenance, providing fish and other aquatic resources. The lake also plays a central role in traditional ceremonies and cultural practices, making it an integral part of the community's identity.  

 Candrone’s LiDAR Mapping Services   

The Candrone service team used LiDAR mapping technology to comprehensively map a 100km shoreline. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology uses laser pulses to measure distances and create precise three-dimensional representations of the landscape.

By mounting LiDAR sensors on drones, Candrone facilitated efficient and accurate mapping of the lake's shoreline, capturing detailed data about the topography and vegetation cover. The team of trained experts conducted proper pre-planning to understand the climate and environmental challenges and were able to navigate the high lake levels, variable weather, remote locations and dangerous wildlife. 

Tools used:

Drone: DJI M300 RTK 

LiDAR system: Green Valley International LiAir V70 

Other: DJI P1 

Amount of data (GB) collected: ~1 TB 

Tom Kitto, Candrone’s Business Development - Services said, “This was a great use case for drones in environmental management and flood mapping; our team mapped over 100km of lake shoreline at ultra-high resolution, giving our clients very accurate modelling information about their site.”  

The insights obtained from Candrone's LiDAR mapping helped to understand the intricate dynamics of the ecosystem, empowering communities and decision-makers to make informed choices. 

This high precision shoreline mapping can also be used for: 

• Maps over time (change detection) – to detail erosion and accretion, elevation and volumetric data 
• Development and planning – detailing vegetation and buildings for sustainable development

• Flood mapping – helping to better understand and prepare and predict for possible flooding 

As we strive for a more harmonious coexistence with nature, initiatives like Candrones mapping services can play a pivotal role in understanding the intricate relationships between human activity and the environment. By embracing advanced technologies, we can forge a path toward environmental preservation and cultural resilience for future generations.  

Are you faced with a challenging mapping situation? Reach out to our team in the live chat or connect with us below.