Uav-Enabled Deformation Classification and Earthworks Assessment For Sustainable Wood Extraction Management

Human activities such as wood extraction exert a notable impact along the trails and forest roads in the form of soil degradation. The objective of this research was to create a Deformation Classification Model for a multi-use trail surface. Additionally, the study aimed to compute sediment deposition and produce a flood hazard map in a region with partial forest cover. The eBee X mapping Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) equipped with the senseFly S.O.D.A. 3D camera and Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) technology surveyed the study area spanning 149 ha in Northern Greece from an altitude of 120 m and achieved a high spatial resolution of 2.6 cm. The specific configuration of fixed-wing equipment eliminates the need for ground control points, compared to previous, in most cases polycopter-based, terrain deformation research. Employing the same methodology, two distinct classifications were applied, utilizing the Digital Surface Model (DSM) and Digital Elevation Model (DEM) for analysis. The Geolocation Errors and Statistics for Bundle Block Adjustment exhibited a high level of accuracy in the model, with the mean values for each of the three directions (X, Y, Z) being 0.000023 m, −0.000044 m, and 0.000177 m, respectively. The standard deviation of the error in each direction was 0.022535 m, 0.019567 m, and 0.020261 m, respectively. In addition, the Root Mean Square (RMS) error was estimated to be 0.022535 m, 0.019567 m, and 0.020262 m, respectively. Furthermore, a total of 20 and 30 altitude categories were defined at a 4 cm spatial resolution, each assigned specific ranges of values, respectively. The area of each altitude category was quantified in square meters (m2), while the volume of each category was measured in cubic meters (m3). Creating a Deformation Classification Model for trail or forest road decks, along with calculating earthworks and generating a flood hazards map, presents an effective approach that can offer valuable assistance to forest managers in the planning and maintenance of trails and forest roads.