PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Jerry C. Ritchie
AU  - Karen S. Humes
AU  - Mark A. Weltz
TI  - Laser altimeter measurements at Walnut Gulch Watershed, Arizona
DP  - 1995 Sep 01
TA  - Journal of Soil and Water Conservation
PG  - 440--442
VI  - 50
IP  - 5
4099  - http://www.jswconline.org/content/50/5/440.short
4100  - http://www.jswconline.org/content/50/5/440.full
AB  - Measurements of landscape surface roughness properties are necessary for understanding many watershed processes. This paper reviews the use of an airborne laser altimeter to measure topography and surface roughness properties of the landscape at Walnut Gulch Watershed in Arizona. Airborne laser data were used to measure macro and micro topography as well as canopy topography, height, cover, and distribution. Macro topography of landscape profiles for segments up to 5 km (3 mi) were measured and were in agreement with available topographic maps but provided more detail. Gullies and stream channel cross-sections and their associated floodplains were measured. Laser measurements of vegetation properties (height and cover) were highly correlated with ground measurements. Landscape segments for any length can be used to measure these landscape roughness properties. Airborne laser altimeter measurements of landscape profiles can provide detailed information on watershed surface properties for improving the management of watersheds.