THE AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH IN FORESTRY

This paper presents a review of the literature on aerial photography with particular reference to its application in forestry. After some introductory remarks on the history of aerial photography, the author describes the photographic materials and equipment used for various purposes. The principle of stereoscopic vision is explained and the fundamentals of mapping techniques based upon photogrammetric procedures are briefly reviewed.

The importance of aerial photographs for reconnaissance of undeveloped forests is emphasized. The distinction between the direct and indirect methods of estimation of stand volume from aerial photographs is discussed. Further applications of aerial photographs in forest management and forest engineering are outlined. The potential use of aerial photographs in South African forestry is stressed.