Tree Root Detection and Imaging

Tree Root Detection and Imaging
May 12, 2015

Overview

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) uses the physical principles of electromagnetic waves’ propagation throughout the media.  The GPR transmitted signal will be reflected, refracted and diffracted from the boundaries between objects with different dieletric properties.

Root detection and mapping using GPR is possible due to the elevated moisture content of tree roots, which provides an excellent dielectric contrast with the soil matrix.

Informative Image showcasing a project site photo of a wooded tree lot with a depth slice image overlay taken from a GPR scan to detect and map subsurface tree roots.

Survey grids are established over each work area allowing for accurate data collection, and an appropriate frequency of Ground Penetrating Radar is selected. GPS data are collected during the ground penetrating radar survey to allow for georeferenced data points and mapping software importing.  Site photos are collected for tree species determination, grading and other site specific elements required for project interpretation.

Advantages

  1. Capable of scanning root systems of large trees in a relatively short time.
  2. Completely non-invasive – does not disturb soils or damage trees examined.
  3. Effective for monitoring root system development over time.
  4. Effective for scanning roots systems beneath concrete, asphalt, bricks, pavers and other hard surfaces.
  5. Capable of detecting roots with diametres as small as 1 centimetre.

Limitations

  1. Difficult to determine individual root size due to similarity in reflected signal display.
  2. Difficult to distinguish root ownership when imaging trees in close proximity.

 

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events scheduled. Please check back later!

Qualified, dedicated project partners.

A full suite of Utility Engineering, Geophysics and Infrastructure Data Collection services backed by our focus on Safety, Quality and Customer Excellence.