Author ORCID Identifier
Document Type
Thesis
Date of Award
Spring 5-10-2024
Keywords
Accessibility, environmental protection, GIS, Remote Sensing, UAV, LiDAR
Degree Name
Geography (BA)
Department
GEOGRAPHY
First Advisor
Dr. Jay L. Newberry
Second Advisor
Dr. Thomas J. Pingel
Third Advisor
Dr. Wan Yu
Series
Science and Mathematics
Subject Heading(s)
Natural areas--Public use ; Nature conservation--United States--New York ; Forest conservation
Abstract
Binghamton University Nature Preserve spans 190 acres of land, with a notable 20-acre wetland serving a multifaceted purpose. It is dedicated to preserving the ecological integrity of this landscape, fostering biodiversity, and facilitating research and environmental education. Improving the accessibility of nature preserves can maximize its advantages, particularly in fostering environmental consciousness and responsible management. However, it may also lead to a simultaneous rise in the potential for soil erosion, unethical utilization, and disruptions to the habitat. This research focuses on Binghamton University's nature preserve as a case study to explore the intricate balance between two vital objectives: ensuring equal access for all user demographics while safeguarding its ecosystem services. To achieve these objectives, the study employs diverse public engagement methods, encompassing surveys and community mapping, to gather valuable insights from various stakeholders, including the likelihood and frequent footprint of the nature preserve. Additionally, the research integrates cutting-edge technology, such as drone flights (UAV), remote-controlled vehicles equipped with iPhone LiDAR sensors, and pole photogrammetry, to acquire comprehensive data on trail conditions and the surrounding environment. The innovative fusion of community input and high-tech data collection empowers a data-driven approach to environmental management, offering the potential to advance accessibility and sustainability simultaneously. By bridging the gap between these two fundamental considerations, this study not only enhances the Binghamton University nature preserve but also paves the way for formulating novel, inclusive, and environmentally responsible public policies and potentially transforming the management of natural preserves nationwide.
Recommended Citation
Yang, Zhanchao, "Accessibility or environmental conservation? Evaluating the relationship between environmental protection and hiking trail accessibility via photogrammetry, lidar & remote sensing" (2024). Undergraduate Honors Theses. 40.
https://orb.binghamton.edu/undergrad_honors_theses/40
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Included in
Geographic Information Sciences Commons, Physical and Environmental Geography Commons, Remote Sensing Commons, Spatial Science Commons
Comments
The thesis was presented at the 2024 AAG at Holunono, HI.