Variogram maps from LiDAR data as fingerprints of surface morphology on scree slopes

Abstract

Herein, an aerial LiDAR topographic dataset is analysed and interpolated by means of geostatistical techniques in order to examine the morphology of a scree slope area in the Eastern Italian Alps. The LiDAR-derived digital terrain model (DTM) is analysed using variogram maps as spatial continuity indexes. This allowed for evaluation of the reproduction of spatial variability of topography and for the characterization and comparison of different morphological features occurring in the study site. The results indicate that variogram maps efficiently synthesise the spatial variability of topography in a local search window, representing suitable "fingerprints" of surface morphology.