Processing and using Lidar data with ArcGIS and QGIS

Processing and using Lidar data with ArcGIS and QGIS can be a complex task, but here are the general steps to follow:

1. Acquire the Lidar data: The first step is to acquire the Lidar data. This can be done by downloading it from online sources or by purchasing it from a data provider.

2. Load the Lidar data into the software: The next step is to load the Lidar data into the software. In ArcGIS, you can use the “LAS Dataset To Raster” tool to convert the Lidar data into a raster format. In QGIS, you can use the “Import Raster” tool to load the Lidar data.

3. Pre-processing the Lidar data: Before using the Lidar data, you may need to perform some pre-processing tasks, such as filtering out noise, removing outliers, and adjusting the point density. In ArcGIS, you can use the “Classify LAS Noise” tool to filter out noise. In QGIS, you can use the “LAS Noise Removal” plugin.

4. Generating a Digital Elevation Model (DEM): Once the Lidar data has been pre-processed, you can generate a DEM from the data. In ArcGIS, you can use the “LAS Dataset To Raster” tool with the “Bare Earth” option to generate a DEM. In QGIS, you can use the “LAStools” plugin to generate a DEM.

5. Conducting terrain analysis: Once you have generated a DEM, you can conduct terrain analysis to extract information such as slope, aspect, and hillshade. In ArcGIS, you can use the “Surface Analysis” toolset to perform terrain analysis. In QGIS, you can use the “Terrain Analysis” plugin.

6. Creating 3D visualizations: Finally, you can use the Lidar data to create 3D visualizations, such as fly-through videos or 3D models. In ArcGIS, you can use the “3D Analyst” extension to create 3D visualizations. In QGIS, you can use the “Qgis2threejs” plugin.

These are the basic steps to process and use Lidar data with ArcGIS and QGIS. However, the specific tools and workflows may vary depending on the version of the software you are using and the specific Lidar data you are working with.