Segmentation of Single Trees in Boreal Forest Using UAV LiDAR Data

In this study the performance of 2D and 3D segmentation approaches for single-tree canopy delineation in a mixed boreal forest was investigated. Using high-resolution UAV LiDAR data collected from Svartberget research park in northern Sweden. The accuracy of delineations was compared for three tree classes: coniferous, birch, and damaged trees. The 2D approach relied on traditional local maxima segmentation techniques, while the 3D approach utilized the point cloud data to incorporate structural information. Preliminary results indicate that the 3D segmentation method provides more precise canopy delineation, particularly for complex and overlapping canopies. The enhanced accuracy of the 3D approach (ForAINet) is expected to contribute significantly to forest management and ecological monitoring including biodiversity studies. At the conference, we will present detailed results highlighting the advantages of 3D segmentation over 2D methods in terms of accuracy and reliability across different tree classes.