New Laser Mapping Tool Tracks Forest Regrowth in Scotland
Scientists have developed a new laser mapping tool to track the regrowth of forests on a large scale, specifically demonstrated in Scotland's Cairngorms National Park. This technology, utilizing LiDAR scanners from aircraft, has identified 2.65 million young trees under 16 feet tall across 220 square miles. The study, led by researchers at the University of Cambridge with partners like RSPB Scotland and Cairngorms Connect, found that this significant regrowth is largely natural, attributed to deer culling efforts that reduce seedling consumption. The LiDAR scanner fires pulses at the ground to create a 3D picture, allowing for the detection of trees even when they are shorter than surrounding heather. This method marks the first time such small, regenerating trees have been mapped at this scale, providing a detailed snapshot of forest recovery.
