Sub-Canopy Woodland Mapping Using Custom HTLS

As part of an MScRes project, a custom handheld terrestrial LiDAR scanner (HTLS) was developed to map sub-canopy woodlands in North Wales. The low-cost system enabled detailed 3D surveys in dense, vegetated environments where traditional methods struggle.

The project assessed tree detection accuracy and the impact of undergrowth on data completeness, demonstrating how portable LiDAR systems can support ecological monitoring in complex forest conditions.