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Title
Measuring Canopy Structure and Condition Using Multi-Spectral UAS Imagery in a Horticultural Environment
Author(s)
Publication Date
2019-01-30
Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) 2008
Open Access
Yes
Abstract
Tree condition, pruning and orchard management practices within intensive horticultural tree crop systems can be determined via measurements of tree structure. Multi-spectral imagery acquired from an unmanned aerial system (UAS) has been demonstrated as an accurate and efficient platform for measuring various tree structural attributes, but research in complex horticultural environments has been limited. This research established a methodology for accurately estimating tree crown height, extent, plant projective cover (PPC) and condition of avocado tree crops, from a UAS platform. Individual tree crowns were delineated using object-based image analysis. In comparison to field measured canopy heights, an image-derived canopy height model provided a coefficient of determination (R<sup>2</sup>) of 0.65 and relative root mean squared error of 6%. Tree crown length perpendicular to the hedgerow was accurately mapped. PPC was measured using spectral and textural image information and produced an R<sup>2</sup> value of 0.62 against field data. A random forest classifier was applied to assign tree condition into four categories in accordance with industry standards, producing out-of-bag accuracies >96%. Our results demonstrate the potential of UAS-based mapping for the provision of information to support the horticulture industry and facilitate orchard-based assessment and management.
Publication Type
Journal Article
Source of Publication
Remote Sensing, 11(3), p. 1-19
Publisher
MDPI AG
Place of Publication
Switzerland
ISSN
2072-4292
File(s) openpublished/MeasuringRobson2019JournalArticle.pdf (7.85 MB)
Published version
Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) 2020
Peer Reviewed
Yes
HERDC Category Description
Peer Reviewed
Yes
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