MANTIS Ph.D. candidate, Isabel Garcia-Williams, showcased her research at the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) conference held in Denver, Colorado (February 2024 edition). The conference, known for its cutting-edge advancements in geospatial technologies, provided the perfect platform for Isabel to unveil her innovative study titled "Mapping Vulnerability of Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle Nesting Habitat on Padre Island National Seashore, Texas using a Miniaturized Mobile Lidar System."
Her research focuses on utilizing a miniaturized mobile lidar system to map the nesting habitat of Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles on Padre Island National Seashore, southern Texas. This approach represents a crucial advancement in conservation efforts for this endangered species.
The miniaturized mobile lidar system employed in Garcia-Williams's research allows for highly detailed 3D mapping of the nesting grounds, providing invaluable data for conservationists and policymakers. By accurately identifying and assessing the vulnerability of these habitats, interested parties can implement targeted conservation strategies to mitigate threats and ensure the long-term survival of Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle population.