The Aerial Photograph as a Tool in Forestry

A systematic study of the utility of photogrammetry as applied to forestry, divided into qualitative and quantitative aspects have been dealt with. Most of the analysis work is a result of Spectral Response Function on the interpretation side, and the work of volume determination, etc., are based on sampling theory and ecological information. The ability to represent certain statistical data based on metric characteristics of aerial photographs, have given rise to a sound scientific description which deserves a reasonable position in the modern forest studies. The treatment is suggestive rather than exhaustive. The knowledge of forestry coordinated with reasonable photogrammetric background is bound to increase the stock of know hows. Since, photogrammetry has not been used in forestry in our country, it is suggested that an attempt should be made in this direction and aerial photographs should be obtained of selective and random species at varying scales and studied under the following context. 1. Photointerpretation, (Qualitative studies). 2. Quantitative studies. Infallibility of obtaining results. This can be developed in the following directional studies: (a) Correlative study of ground object and photo image. (b) Correlating ecological studies. (e) Correlating phenological studies. (d) Correlating height, crown diameter and volume. (e) Response of Minus Blue filter. 3. Development of standard tables or nomograms and thereby climinating computation work. 4. Standard, to be laid down for forest photogrammetric studies. 5. Easy approach by less trained personnel so that maximum utility is derived at less cost. 6. Cost considerations. With the potentialities and the utilities which the aerial photographs hold for forestry, it is hoped that the Indian Forest Service would take up the technique.