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AUTHORS: Christina Montello, Gregory Bonynge, Christopher Damon, and Peter August - University of Rhode Island
ABSTRACT: Napatree Point Conservation Area in Westerly, Rhode Island, was the focus of a new Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) data development project by the University of Rhode Island Environmental Data Center. Data were collected using a DJI Phantom 4 Pro consumer UAV. Although not designed for mapping purposes, this relatively low-cost solution proved itself effective for small-scale mapping projects. Baseline imagery of Napatree to be used in monitoring storm-induced habitat and sand dune changes as well as imagery for mapping submerged aquatic vegetation mapping were obtained through nadir grid missions. Pix4DMapper Pro was used to process the imagery, generating digital surface models and orthomosaics, which were in turn interpreted using Esri ArcGIS Desktop. The spatial distribution of boat anchorage off Napatree was determined using videos and ArcGIS Full Motion Viewer. Even though there are limitations to using consumer UAVs for gathering geospatial data, this project demonstrates their utility and cost effectiveness.
