Methods for estimating forest stem volumes by tree species using digital surface model and CIR images taken from light UAS

In this paper we consider methods for estimating forest tree stem volumes by species using images taken from light unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Instead of using LiDAR and additional multiband imagery a color infrared camera mounted to a light UAS is used to acquire both imagery and the DSM of target area. The goal of this study is to accurately estimate tree stem volumes in three classes. The status of the ongoing work is described and an initial method for delineating and classifying treetops is presented.