Approval of Expenditure - AFX17 Hyperspectral Mounting Camera.

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is a remote sensing method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser of ultraviolet, visible, or near infrared light to create images of objects. It can detect a wide range of materials, including non-metallic objects, rocks, rain, chemical compounds, aerosols, clouds and even single molecules.

The Kentucky State University (KSU) Land Grant Program is requesting to use USDA Research funds to purchase an AFX17 Hyperspectral Mounting Camera. This camera will be mounted on a currently owned drone and used to capture LiDAR images on reclaimed mine land properties in Eastern Kentucky. The automated and accurate mapping of vegetation types in reclaimed mine sites is dependent on knowing the spectral characteristics of biomass or plant materials. These images will allow the establishment of a spectral image library of various sites. The camera will be utilized throughout Kentucky, as well as the KSU campus, for research purposes.

USDA Research funds in the amount of $102,117. Purchase would follow after the Kentucky State University Board of Regents approval.

Interim President Ronald A. Johnson recommends that the Kentucky State University Board of Regents approve the purchase of the AFX17 Hyperspectral Mounting Camera.

Approve expenditure associated with the acquisition of the AFX17 Hyperspectral Mounting Camera.