LiDAR-Derived Forest Stand Characteristics for Use in Ruffed Grouse Habitat Suitability Modeling

The purpose of this analysis is to use currently available technology to assist in management of ruffed grouse in eastern Kentucky. The technology is “Light Detection AND Ranging” (“LiDAR”), a remote sensing method of collecting spatial information about forest vegetation structure. Knowledge of forest structural characteristics may improve knowledge of ruffed grouse, a state species of conservation concern that use a mixture of forest structural conditions but which thrive in areas of 6 to 20-year-old forest growth. Young forest habitat generally is lacking in eastern Kentucky, so the ability to identify areas of potentially suitable habitat could help predict where ruffed grouse are most likely to occur, and thus, assist in effort to monitor and manage populations.