AI-Powered Precision Mapping Tracks Woody Plant Spread on the Great Plains
2025-08-19
Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a cost-effective, high-accuracy system for mapping grassland vegetation using publicly available aerial imagery and machine learning. The system achieves 97% accuracy in classifying grass, shrubs, and trees, and is being used to monitor the rapid spread of woody plants across the Great Plains. This research not only aids in better grassland ecosystem management but also provides valuable hands-on experience for students and offers data support for other research areas, such as livestock carrying capacity assessment and fire risk assessment.
(phys.org)
Tech
grassland ecology