Small Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems in Visual Impact Assessments and Resource Management: Developing Standards for Landscape Architecture

RPAS use is increasing with many using RPAS for saving time and money. As more Landscape Architects explore RPAS, it is essential to highlight how RPAS are used to improve Visual Impact Assessments (VIA) and better understand site resources. This research explores how VIA and resource management can be improved using RPAS and the incorporation of standards into a best practices guide. RPAS lead to more accurate inventories and analyses as data are user-controlled. A comparative analysis of RPAS-assisted VIAs and current methods informed a Best Practices Guide for RPAS use in Landscape Architecture, which was reviewed by RPAS and Landscape Architecture industry professionals. This research demonstrates how RPAS collect data for RPAS and Resource Inventory and Analysis compared to present methods and informs standards. The Best Practices Guide increases awareness of RPAS to improve VIAs and other aspects of the Landscape Architecture profession.