Eyes in the Sky: Mapping Still Creek with Drones, LiDAR, and Remote Sensing

Join us on November 13 to learn about the science of remote sensing- the process of collecting information about an area or object using sensors attached to drones, satellites or aircrafts. Learn how this cutting-edge technology is used to map and measure the Still Creek Watershed. In this talk, Liam Irwin will introduce the basics of remote sensing science, providing background knowledge on how data is collected and used. Prepare to be dazzled by stunning visuals of Still Creek from various technologies using satellites.

Liam will talk about the rise of drones and how they can be used to map and monitor ecosystem restoration, and how they are being integrated into forest management. Our talk will conclude with a demonstration of several different drones from commercial to hobby level!

In this talk we will learn about how these tools can be used to examine our environments over time and help understand the complexity of nature.

This talk will be given by Liam Irwin, a PhD candidate in the Integrated Remote Sensing Studio at UBC who focuses on the use of remote sensing in Silviculture. More on Liam is available below!

• Date: Wednesday, November 13
• Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
• Location: Slocan Community Hall()
• Age: This expert talk is great for ages 14+
• Food & Drink: We will provide light snacks, fruit snacks and granola bars, as well as some beverages, such as tea and bubblys. Please bring a water to stay hydrated!
• Photos and/or videos may be taken to document the event for Still Moon Arts Society’s archival and promotional purposes, and reporting to funders. You will be asked for consent at the beginning of the event and your choice does not impact your ability to participate fully in the experience.

• Slocan Community Hall ().
• Slocan Community Hall is about a 5 minute walk from 29th Ave Skytrain Station
• Limited free car parking is available at the meet-up location.
• We recommend walking, taking the bus, riding your bike, or carpooling when possible.

• Slocan Hall is accessable by side walk and there are no stairs to get to the entrance
• Washrooms are available at the hall

Liam Irwin (he/him) was born and raised in Vancouver, BC. Backpacking in the local mountains during his teens lead him to develop a curiosity of the natural world. He received an undergraduate degree in natural resource conservation from UBC’s faculty of forestry; focusing on stream and riparian research during summers. After finishing undergrad, he worked in forestry consulting throughout northern BC where he was able to gain operational experience in the industry. In 2019, Liam was drawn back to UBC to pursue the MGEM program which developed his geomatics skillset. His masters program revealed remote sensing as a solution to management uncertainty issues that became evident to Liam during his career and education in forestry/conservation. Liam is now a PhD candidate in the Integrated Remote Sensing Studio; seeking to develop a monitoring framework which integrates remotely sensed data like LIDAR to assess the state of silviculture and our regenerating forests. Liam hopes to integrate science and data to address the needs of Canadian forest management. In his free time, you’ll probably find Liam fly fishing, skiing, or taking photos of wildlife.

The Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival and all of Still Moon Arts' programming take place on the unceded territories of Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations.

Still Moon Arts Society mobilizes community and creates positive change through eco-arts and environmental stewardship programming, and produces the annual Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival. Still Moon is a registered charity whose mission is to inspire vibrant and connected communities by creating artistic experiences and nurturing a passion for nature.

We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, City of Vancouver, Vancouver Park Board , Government of British Columbia, and the many other supporters, donors, and volunteers who make the Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival possible. Your contributions are invaluable and greatly appreciated. The Moon Festival is supported by the Government of Canada - Financé par le gouvernment de Canada.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Slocan Community Hall, 2750 East 29th Avenue, Vancouver, Canada