Non-destructive root mapping: Exploring the potential of gpr

We discuss the potential of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) for tree root mapping by presenting the results from three recent studies performed in different sites with secular trees. Depending on the survey area, we discuss the use of two different hardware solutions to perform high density 3D surveys: a single antenna (500MHz or 1GHz) in combination with a PSG (Pad System for Georadar) or a 600MHz array system (IDS Stream C). The results show that GPR method can be an effective tool to map the roots. The approximate extent of the soil volume hosting most of the roots can be easily interpreted after applying a standard data processing sequence. However, advanced image interpretation remains an open issue and, in case a detailed root net reconstruction is needed, the cost of the interpretation phase prevails over the costs of acquisitions and data processing and can significantly affect the overall project costs. Algorithms for automatic root drawing would be the solution but the reliability of such root maps is still to be validated.