A GIS-based system for assessing emerald ash borer infestation

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The goal of this project is to develop a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based system to characterize and model the spread of the invasive Emerald Ash Borer (EAB, Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire) insect infestation currently rife in numerous parts of the province of Ontario. We plan to develop innovative methods to derive up-to-date information on ash tree locations and the extent (presence/absence) of EAB infestation. An object-oriented and knowledge-based hierarchical framework will be designed and implemented to identify individual ash trees from multi-source remotely sensed data using ArcGIS software, the most widely used GIS platform by Canadian municipalities. The spatial patterns of the EAB spread at both regional and local scales will be characterized and the key factors controlling the spread of the EAB beetles will be identified and explicitly included in the EAB spread model. An EAB risk map will be generated for the study sites and management options will be suggested. ****The outcome of this project will result in a better understanding of the risk associated with the spread of this destructive insect, and allow better informed decisions to be made regarding its detection, monitoring, and control, which will help to inhibit its spread and allow local municipalities to preserve biomass in their urban tree inventory. The methodology and framework that will be developed in this project will advance remote sensing science in individual tree crown delineation and species identification and geospatial modelling, and will be transferred to our industrial partner, Esri Canada, for potential commercialization among its municipal clients. Ultimately, this will lead to national and potentially international economic benefits. The project will also provide training opportunities for highly qualified personnel to enhance their prospects for employment upon the completion of their education programs.