In recent years, data visualization tools have helped to illustrate site conditions in a more accurate and timely manner than ever before. The advent of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) technology has revolutionized site condition monitoring by providing crucial insight at record speed. This groundbreaking technology streamlines the reporting process and allows for real-time results with a high degree of certainty.

GeoOptic, a division of AEL environment, utilizes a suite of data visualization tools and advanced photogrammetric techniques to help landowners gain a better understanding of their site and determine next steps. Here is a closer look at these tools and how they can prove useful across many industries and site requirements.

What Is GIS (Geographic Information Systems)?

A GIS is a computer system designed to record, analyze, and display visual data. AEL primarily uses GIS to generate digital topography – in other words, computerized map-making. The visual representation of data offers a window into specific site conditions. In addition, our GeoOptic division provides aerial mapping services that produce accurate, high-resolution maps in just a few hours.

What Is a UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)?

An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), otherwise known as a drone, is an aircraft that flies without a human pilot on board. We use drones for aerial surveying, generating large volumes of data which can be interpreted in a variety of ways based on your needs. During site assessments, the UAV flies to a maximum altitude of 400 ft., travelling back and forth in a tight pattern to capture every part of the site. When these images are stitched together into a single image of the site, a high-resolution 3D terrain model can be produced, allow us to understand contamination migration, estimate stockpile volumes, plan site drainage, map slopes outside permitted allowances and more.

Data Visualization Tools in Action

AEL employs data visualization tools to provide rapid, and accurate picture of site conditions. Depending on the nature of the property and site-specific goals, this technology can serve a variety of different purposes. Data visualization tools can assist with the following:

• Environmental Sites – Data visualization using GIS and UAV mapping provides a high degree of certainty in understanding site conditions, making real-time site information easily accessible during an investigation or remediation.
• Quarries – Our expert technicians use GIS and aerial surveying to streamline the annual reporting process on fill volumes removed from the site, helping you forecast quarry extraction volumes and estimate on quarry lifespan and outputs.
• Land Developers – GIS and aerial site surveys provide land developers with a clear understanding of site topography to help establish design and development plans, assist with soil management, and produce aerial photos for project promotion, lot visualization, and highlighting of site features.
• Landfill Owners – AEL uses GIS and aerial surveying to ease the mandatory reporting process for landfill owners, helping you forecast for future fill volumes and giving you a confident understanding of the landfill’s lifespan.
• Golf Courses – AEL’s advanced aerial surveying techniques provide golf course designers and operators with knowledge of site features to help guide decision-making and site planning, and our high-resolution aerial imagery can support visual advertising.
• Renewable Energy Facilities – AEL uses GIS and UAV surveys to gain a better understanding of site conditions and topography, thereby assisting with the process of gaining approval to build, maintain and upgrade renewable energy facilities.

Data visualization tools enable AEL to provide landowners with a timely and comprehensive understanding of site conditions, allowing them to move forward with confidence. Contact us today to learn more about how our data visualization solutions empower you to make informed decisions.