Object-based correction of LiDAR DEMs using RTK-GPS data and machine learning modeling in the coastal Everglades

• DOI: 10.1016/j.envsoft.2018.11.003
• Publication Date: 2018-11-07T13:29:29Z
• Authors: Hannah M. Cooper; Caiyun Zhang; Stephen E. Davis; Tiffany G. Troxler
• Keywords: Life Sciences; 14. Life underwater; 01 natural sciences; 0105 earth and related environmental sciences

Abstract Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) are frequently applied in modeling coastal environments. We present an object-based correction approach for accurate and precise DEMs by integrating LiDAR point data, aerial imagery, and Real Time Kinematic-Global Positioning Systems. Four machine learning techniques (Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, k-Nearest Neighbor, and Artificial Neural Network) were compared with the commonly used bias-correction method. The Random Forest object-based model produced best predictions for two study areas: Nine Mile (Mean Bias Error (MBE) reduced 0.18 to −0.02 m, Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) reduced 0.22 to 0.08 m) and Flamingo (MBE reduced 0.17 to 0.02 m, RMSE reduced 0.24 to 0.10 m). A Monte Carlo model was developed to combine errors into the object-based machine learning corrected DEMs, and uncertainty maps spatially revealed the likelihood of error. The object-based correction approach provides an attractive alternative to the bias-correction method.