Utilization of Aerial Mapping Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle for Watershed and Forest Rehabilitation Planning

Abstract

This study demonstrated the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and photogrammetry to produce baseline watershed imagery and support forest rehabilitation planning in the Kaliwa Watershed Area of Brgy. Mamuyao, Tanay, Rizal, Philippines. A geospatial survey was conducted using a DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise drone, capturing 1,411 high-resolution images across more than 1.2 million square meters. These images were processed using Agisoft Metashape to generate orthomosaics and Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) for terrain, slope, and land cover analysis. The assessment focused on Parcel 3, a 108.92-hectare region characterized as a secondary forest and tropical semi evergreen rainforest. Land cover analysis revealed that 31% (34.024 hectares) of this parcel is barren, while 69% (74.948 hectares) remains vegetated. The generated DEMs and orthophotos identified precise terrain profiles and exposed soil areas. Ultimately, this high-resolution spatial mapping delivered critical baseline data to prioritize reforestation efforts and ensure the long-term ecological sustainability of the watershed.