Unmanned aerial vehicles and Geographical Information System integrated analysis of vegetation in Trasimeno Lake, Italy

Photogrammetric and remote sensing methods based on micro and mini UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) are nowadays extremely interesting. These performances are due to the technological progresses in sensors miniaturizing, to the extreme portability of these aircrafts, to the easy driving also by not expert staff. Moreover, the cost much lower than the traditional remote sensing allows the possibility of frequent flights at low altitude also in impervious areas. This paper deals with the potentiality of using high-resolution multispectral image data acquired by UAV SR-SF6 in order to analyze on a temporal and spatial scale the extension of Phragmites australis (or Common Reed) localized in the south of Trasimeno Lake. The Phragmites australis influences considerably the ecological balance of the Lake. Indeed the epiphytic microorganisms in the submerged part contribute to both the metabolism of nutrients and the killing of bacteria (Bresciani et al., 2012). Moreover, the Phragmites australis affects the evapotranspiration levels representing a significant contribution to the Lake water balance (Dragoni, 2005). The use of remote sensing techniques for environmental parameters monitoring and control is in accordance with the goals of Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) which defines the environmental quality objectives for the major water bodies.