infrared maps

[MillbrookMaple]

I am looking for a source for infrared maps of the forest within a 20 mile radius of my Saphouse in the Catskills. I hope to be able to pin point maple groves around me so I can approach land owners and the NY DEP about leasing the trees. I know that each species of tree gives off a different infrared signature so I know there must be a way. Any direction would be appreciated.

Thanks,

[gmcooper]

I have heard of something like this but no idea where to find it. I think the Feds use it to find pot plants. Maybe they can help? LOL

[DrTimPerkins]

I know that each species of tree gives off a different infrared signature so I know there must be a way. Any direction would be appreciated.

There isn't as much IR aerial photography done these days since satellites do pretty much the same thing.

The difference in IR signature between a maple and another hardwood stand would be very subtle. This would be especially the case in mixed stands. The difference between conifers and hardwoods is greater. Without a lot of training, calibration, and ground truthing, it probably isn't a real useful approach to finding nearby maple stands.

Your best bet would be to go and chat with the local state or county forester and see if they can clue you in to where some possible nearby stands for maple production might be.

[802maple]

If you ride around right now they are pretty easy to see on the hills. For a little longer they show up as a light gray color. The only other tree that looks similar is the white oak. I can go out doors right now and see the light gray splotches on the side of Mount Grant and they are maples.

[MillbrookMaple]

Thanks for the info. I'll check with some of the local forestry guys. I can also check with the DEP and DEC and DMV. Just kidding about the last one. Seems here in the Catskills we have a lot of people interested in what people are doing with their land like where you can spread your cow manure and where your RO permeate ends up. I guess I might be able to see if they might be helpfull.

[JuniperHillSugar]

I'd suggest visiting some local folks on a Saturday afternoon and talk to some families that have been there for a long time. Many hunters have seen sugar maple stands and may be able to give you some insight on who to talk to. Anyway you'll probably meet some nice people that will be good publicity for being a responsible sugarmaker. I'm a Land Surveyor and I've been spotting maple stands for years, NONE of which I have forgotten! Good Luck.

[bees1st]

like 802 said, a ride around especially right now when they are in bloom. they're really easy to spot before the leaves are out. Their flowers have a very distinct shade of green.

[Ace_R]

Not to get too technical, but IR imagery is really only good for decerning between veg and non-veg or measuring relative plant health, in this particular situation. To differentiate between species of trees hyperspecral imagery is needed, which even with the high tech satellites we have today, do not give enough resolution to make a decent comparison between species or trees

[Daveg]

I'd first zero-in on areas with slope if your plan is to use tubing. THEN, discern species of trees.