Adoption of Lidar Technology in the Valuation of Forest in Uganda.

Abstract

Forest valuation, a scientific discipline that emerged in the 18th century when forests and forest products became items of commerce, seeks the most accurate methods of field measurement and techniques. Traditional methods of forest valuation rely on ground-based surveys and sampling, which can be time-consuming, costly, and subject to error. With the advent of LiDAR technology, forest valuation can now be carried out with greater accuracy and efficiency. This study investigates the adoption of LiDAR technology in the valuation of forests in Uganda, focusing on tree height and diameter data collected through LiDAR scanning. The study aims to assess the potential benefits and challenges associated with the adoption of LiDAR technology and provide recommendations for its effective implementation. The research adopts a quantitative approach, analyzing a dataset consisting of 33,335 trees with heights ranging from 2 meters to 25 meters and diameters at breast height (DBH) ranging from 0.1 to 3.471 meters. The findings reveal valuable information about tree attributes and classify the trees into saw timber and pulpwood categories. The study identifies several challenges and limitations related to the adoption of LiDAR technology in forest valuation, including cost constraints, data availability, interpretation complexities, and lack of awareness of the public about LiDAR Technology. Despite these challenges, LiDAR technology offers great potential for accurate forest valuation in Uganda. The study concludes that addressing these challenges requires financial support, capacity building, improved data accessibility, customized analysis tools, and stakeholder collaboration. The key recommendations include Enhance Financial Support and Capacity Building. To overcome the cost barrier associated with LiDAR technology, I recommend that Makerere University through the government of Uganda allocate financial resources to support the acquisition, and operation of LiDAR equipment and software. Additionally, Makerere University in collaboration with Institution of Surveyors of Uganda should organize capacity-building programs, lectures and seminars to train Surveyors and students in LiDAR data acquisition, processing, interpretation, and analysis. This will help build a skilled workforce capable of effectively utilizing LiDAR technology for forest valuation. Key words: LiDAR; LiDAR Technology; DBH; CHM;