Thesis Defence: Patrick Robinson (Master of Science in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies)
You are encouraged to attend the defence. The details of the defence and attendance information is included below:
Date: April 2, 2025
Time: 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM (PT)
Defence mode: Hybrid
In-Person Attendance: Senate Chambers, UNBC Prince George Campus
Virtual Attendance: via Zoom
LINK TO JOIN: Please contact the Office of Graduate Administration for information regarding remote attendance for online defences.
To ensure the defence proceeds with no interruptions, please mute your audio and video on entry and do not inadvertently share your screen. The meeting will be locked to entry 5 minutes after it begins: please ensure you are on time.
Thesis entitled: WILDFIRE FUEL MAPPING USING AIRBORNE LASER SCANNING (LIDAR): CLIMATE ADAPTATION PLANNING WITH THE XÁXLI’P COMMUNITY
Abstract: As shifting global climate patterns contribute to more frequent and severe wildfires, accurate forest fuel mapping is essential for wildfire hazard assessment and climate adaptation planning. This study integrates high-resolution Airborne Laser Scanning (LiDAR) data with machine learning to generate detailed wildfire fuel maps for the Xáxli’p Survival Territory in British Columbia. Using Random Forest modeling, we quantify three key vertical fuel strata—understory, ladder, and canopy fuels—providing a more precise characterization of fuel distribution than conventional and currently available fuel classification systems, making it more relevant at a local community level.
To train these models, we collected field data using two approaches: precise, measured field sampling and expert-based visual estimates, comparing their effectiveness in capturing differences in forest fuel loads. The findings highlight the potential for integrating remote sensing with local ecological expertise to improve wildfire hazard modeling. To ensure practical application, we developed an interactive web-based mapping platform to support land managers in wildfire mitigation and long-term climate adaptation. By combining modern geospatial technology with community-driven knowledge, this research enhances wildfire hazard assessment and provides a scalable model for data-driven, locally informed land stewardship in fire-prone landscapes.
Defence Committee:
Chair: Dr. Roger Wheate
Supervisor: Dr. Scott Green
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Che Elkin
Committee Member: Dr. Marc-Andre Parisien
External Examiner: Dr. Herb Hammond
Contact Information
Graduate Administration in the Office of the Registrar, University of Northern British Columbia