GIS in Action 2026

Leveraging readily available government land use and remote sensing datasets, this study uses imaging analysis techniques to evaluate landowner choices relative to their municipal water use for landscaping during the summer season. Specifically, the study uses LiDAR surface modeling and NDVI index measures to identify residential taxlot parcels where owners choose to irrigate lawn turf covering their permeable surfaces. Further, the study investigates whether such variables as land/building property value, taxlot areal extent, and/or census tract demographics are predictors of the rate at which parcel owners choose to irrigate. This presentation will review the government interest in the spatial question, the methodology, and results from an initial study area in northeast Portland, Oregon.