Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory
Distinguished Scientist Seminar Series

Dr. James Churnside
NOAA Environmental Technology Laboratory
Boulder, CO


"Airborne Fish Lidar"



    Location: Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory
              2205 Commonwealth Blvd.
              Ann Arbor, MI  48105-2945
        Date: Friday, August 4, 2000
        Time: 10:00-11:00 am
        Room: 105 (Main Conference Room)

ABSTRACT: Light detection and ranging, or Lidar, uses a pulse of laser light in the same way that a radar uses a pluse of radio energy or an echo sounder uses a pulse of sound. A Lidar in an aircraft can operate through the surface of the water to detect fish and plankton below the surface. In clear water, measurements to about 50 meter depths are possible. With proper calibration, biomass estimates are possible. We have conducted demonstration surveys in the Southern California Bight, Puget Sound, and the Bay of Biscay in a variety of different aircraft. Results obtained to date and the strengths and limitations of airborne lidar for fisheries surveys will be presented.


For further information, please contact:

Steve Ruberg
NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory
2205 Commonwealth Blvd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48105-2945
734-741-2271

http://www.glerl.noaa.gov/news/seminars/2000/churnside.html