Aerial footage of the Green River in Ouray National Wildlife Refuge

USGS researchers use high-resolution remote sensing data acquired from uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) to monitor and analyze long-term hydrologic, geomorphic, and ecological dynamics in river systems. In this example, a UAS conducts a low-altitude flight over the Green River within the Ouray National Wildlife Refuge, capturing detailed aerial imagery of river channels, sandbar morphology, riparian vegetation, and surrounding geologic features.

By combining repeat UAS-based imagery with ground-based surveys and hydrologic monitoring data, USGS scientists are able to quantify interactions among river flow, sediment transport, riparian vegetation establishment and survival, and critical habitats for young-of-year fish. These integrated data support local, state, and federal resource managers, including refuge staff, in evaluating and managing riverine ecosystem processes and functions over time.