Validation of a high‐resolution, remotely operated aerial remote‐sensing system for the identification of herbaceous plant species

Abstract

Abstract Question Is a high‐resolution remote‐sensing system based on a radio‐controlled helicopter (the ‘Falcon‐ PARS system’) an effective tool to obtain images that can be used to identify herbaceous species? Location Watarase wetland, Japan. Methods We applied the remote‐sensing system to a wetland composed mainly of Phragmites australis and Miscanthus sacchariflorus . The aerial observation was performed in a 100 × 200 m area at a flying height of 30 m. From the obtained images, we tried to identify P. australis and M. sacchariflorus through visual interpretation. Results We obtained images with a high spatial resolution (1 cm) and a positioning accuracy of finer than 1 m using this small and lightweight system, and confirmed that we could identify the above two species from the obtained images. Conclusion Such a high‐resolution system can be used to directly identify herbaceous species, and as a non‐destructive alternative to ground surveys. This lightweight system can be carried to sites such as a high‐altitude bog that cannot be reached by a motor vehicle. Because of the low flying height (below cloud level), aerial observation is possible even on cloudy days, thereby permitting observations in all seasons.