29-23 Determining the Changes in Stream Morphology and Stream Bank Erosion Rates Using LiDAR and Multispectral Imagery

Session: Undergraduate Research, Part II (Posters)

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While many studies examine the spatial effects of land use and land cover changes on streams, less attention has been given to their broader influence on stream morphology and riparian buffer system (RBS) function over time. Stream morphology metrics, such as cross-sectional area and width-to-depth ratio, can effectively detect channel changes, especially during extreme weather events. Traditional monitoring relies on surveys to track channel morphology which are time consuming. Integrating drone-based and terrestrial LiDAR technology now allows tracking of these changes with high-resolution point clouds. This study tracks changes in channel morphology in two streams with RBS in Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, using LiDAR (drone and terrestrial) and multispectral imagery. Multispectral imagery is used to develop vegetation indices that track vegetation changes, which are then linked with LiDAR data to examine how vegetation characteristics affect channel morphology. Data collection occurs monthly and after major storms. Initial LiDAR and multispectral scans were completed in November 2025, producing high-resolution Digital Elevation Models (DEMs). All data points are georeferenced via a base station for accuracy. The changes in the stream banks will be estimated to be implemented using several different techniques. Cloud to Cloud Distance tool available at the Cloud Compare will be used to determine whether the change is positive (deposition) or negative (erosion). Moreover, we will create cross sections of the point cloud at regular intervals to estimate the volume change of each location at different time intervals which enable to estimate the sediment loss. This step is ideal to compare the sediment loss before and after a significant storm event.  Ultimately, this integrated approach will provide valuable insights into the dynamic relationships among vegetation, land use, and stream morphology, enabling us to develop effective management and restoration strategies.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 1, 2026

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