www.geoconnexion.com/geo_news_article/Merrick-and-Co-Mi -
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Published on: 7/5/2007
Last Visited: 6/15/2008
Elizabeth Cook, GIS Specialist, USDA-NRCS explains, "We have a highly active farming area in these four counties and a majority of the farming practices we work with are represented.For the first time, we will use LiDAR data for preliminary design of agriculture practices such as terracing and grade stabilization that improve water quality by reducing erosion and pesticide or nutrient run-off.We expect to realize cost efficiencies by planning at our desktops and reducing time in the field."In addition, the USDA-NRCS will use the data for mapping and assessing vegetation conditions along riparian corridors."The LiDAR data will offer us riparian vegetative condition information along streams in the four county area.We may be able to determine areas most in need of permanent vegetation reestablishment to reduce run-off and improve wildlife habitat," continues Cook.