Abstract
 Deriving Forest Structure from LiDAR Data for a Large Watershed Track: Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management Author(s): Mark Joselyn, Duncan Munro Implementation of the Cedar River Watershed Habitat Conservation Plan, Seattle, WA, poses an ongoing challenge to land managers of what, if any, management action to take. The over-riding goal is to accelerate the development of late seral or "old growth" forest conditions. Lack of data on existing conditions has made it difficult to identify and prioritize restoration project areas and to make the decision making process transparent to stakeholders. LiDAR data were used to quantify current forest condition and gap distribution. Specific derived metrics include tree height, stand density, and gap distribution. These classifications were verified based on field sample plots. The methods used and results of these efforts will be presented. The forested 141 square mile watershed is located on the west slope of the Cascade Mountains, ranging in elevation from 500 to 5,000 feet. We believe this analysis of LiDAR data across such a broad landscape is unique. Mark Joselyn City of Seattle Watershed Management Division 19901 Cedar Falls Rd SE North Bend , WA 98045 US Phone: 206-615-1927 E-mail: mark.joselyn@seattle.gov Duncan Munro City of Seattle Watershed Management Division 19901 Cedar Falls Road SE North Bend , WA 98045 US Phone: 206-233-5002 E-mail: duncan.munro@seattle.gov |
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