Introduction to LiDAR and Examples from Natural Resources

Abstract: Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is a rapidly advancing sensor technology that is used to collect information in a wide range of situations. While it's use in autonomous vehicles is frequently highlighted, LiDAR is also used extensively by utility companies, state and federal departments as well as the military. This talk will give a brief introduction to 1) what LiDAR is and some basic spatial data concepts and analysis methods 2) examples from forestry and 3) some of the state of the art uses.

Presenter: Casey Ghilardi

Casey Ghilardi is a forest biometrics analyst with PotlatchDeltic in Spokane. Originally from NJ, he has an B.S. degree in environmental science and a M.S in natural resources and has worked in forestry across multiple regions of the US. His interests include trees, the outdoors, and open source technologies.