Integration of GIS, Expert System, & LIDAR Technologies for Conservation Planning in Iowa

Agren, Inc., in cooperation with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, will develop a geographical information system (GIS)-based expert system to facilitate the use of Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) technology for conservation planning. The three-year project will further develop, demonstrate, and evaluate the use of LIDAR technology for conservation planning in Iowa, as well as develop an electronic decision-support tool to facilitate use of this technology by conservation planners. The use of this decision-support tool has tremendous application for practitioners working one-on-one with farmers.