A Study on Obtaining Tree Data from Green Spaces in Parks Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Images: Focusing on Mureung Park in Chuncheon

Abstract

Background and objective The purpose of study is to analyze the three-dimensional (3D) structure by creating a 3D model for green spaces in a park using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) images. Methods After producing a digital surface model (DSM) and a digital terrain model (DTM) using UAV images taken in Mureung Park in Chuncheon-si, we generated a digital tree height model (DHM). In addition, we used the mean shift algorithm to test the classification accuracy, and obtain accurate tree height and volume measures through field survey. Results Most of the tree species planted in Mureung Park were Pinus koraiensis, followed by Pinus densiflora, and Zelkova serrata, and most of the shrubs planted were Rhododendron yedoense, followed by Buxus microphylla, and Spiraea prunifolia. The average height of trees measured at the site was 7.8 m, and the average height estimated by the model was 7.5 m, showing a difference of about 0.3 m. As a result of the t-test, there was no significant difference between height values of the field survey data and the model. The estimated green coverage and volume of the study site using the UAV were 5,019 m2 and 14,897 m3, respectively, and the green coverage and volume measured through the field survey were 6,339 m2 and 17,167 m3. It was analyzed that the green coverage showed a difference of about 21% and the volume showed a difference of about 13%. Conclusion The UAV equipped with RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) modules used in this study could collect information on tree height, green coverage, and volume with relatively high accuracy within a short period of time. This could serve as an alternative to overcome the limitations of time and cost in previous field surveys using remote sensing techniques.