Monitoring beach morphology changes using small-format aerial photography and digital softcopy photogrammetry

Environmental Geosciences
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Abstract

Current methods of monitoring beach morphology changes commonly involve the establishment of Global Positioning System profiles that are surveyed on a regular basis. Although this method produces precise measurements of coastal topography, it is costly in time and effort and may result in large data gaps between profiles. Much of our understanding of coastal dynamics is thus limited by profile spacing and survey frequency. Softcopy photogrammetry is increasingly being used as an alternative to assess shoreline change and study beach morphodynamics. This method of producing three-dimensional topographic models and orthophotographs from digitized aerial photography can aid in filling in the gaps between established profiles. A limiting factor to this technology is the cost of obtaining high-resolution aerial photography.

We have developed an aerial mapping system designed to collect data in an efficient and cost-effective way. We use a small-format aerial photography system that can be mounted on a variety of small aircraft on short notice. After a flight, the photographs are scanned, and softcopy photogrammetry software is used to create both DTMs (Digital Terrain Models) and orthophotographs. The DTMs can be compared with existing profiles for accuracy, and volumetric changes can be computed. The orthophotos are used to make precise measurements of the position and morphology of shoreline features. This aerial mapping system is advantageous over previous methods of beach morphology change monitoring because it allows for rapid response to storm events and provides a cost-effective method of establishing a continual monitoring program in erosion hazard areas.

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Monitoring beach morphology changes using small-format aerial photography and digital softcopy photogrammetry
Series title Environmental Geosciences
DOI 10.1046/j.1526-0984.2000.71001.x
Volume 7
Issue 1
Year Published 2000
Language English
Publisher Wiley
Contributing office(s) Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center
Description 6 p.
First page 32
Last page 37
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