High resolution elevation sources such as LiDAR and photogrammetry provide unprecedented detail about surface morphology and erosion processes. 

Staff create a wide variety of terrain maps to visualize and quantify surface changes.

Satellite remote sensing allows frequent observation of Bay of Quinte water colour to assess the likelihood and location of harmful algal blooms. Staff make use of NASA’s moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) and LandSat sensors. Water colour is assessed during the growing season when clear skies allow observation of the Bay from satellite. Final Report

Watershed processes and high flow concentration areas can be visualized to determine likely areas of deep incisions from runoff and associated field outlets. Final Report

By comparing digital elevation surfaces over time staff are experimenting with novel approaches to quantify soil movement on and off agricultural fields.

Staff are developing new methods to map field conditions in the non-growing season when fields are especially vulnerable to erosion. Using a satellite C-band RADAR sensor from the European Space Agency the relative soil cover / tillage intensity going into the winter season can be mapped at broad scale. Read the final report and supporting article here.