The objective of this proposal is to identify or develop a geo-spatial camera/ equipment that combines existing technologies such as: digital camera (3.5 meg or higher), GPS receiver (differentially correctable, WASS capable, best antenna), digital compass, and laser range finder. The equipment should be compact, wireless (or at least less wires), water resistant, and have a large battery capabilities or reserves. It should have the ability to capture data on a compact flash card and data formats that are directly importable into NRIS and ArcGIS.

Development of a geo-spatial camera that combines all or some of these separate pieces of equipment into a more compact and wireless arrangement would greatly enhance many applications and ensure widespread use within the USFS.

Such a devise already exist; it is marketed as the "ike" 304 by Surveylab, Ltd (http://www.surveylab.co.nz/).

Status : SDTDC upgraded its ike 300 to the new ike 304. The USFS TEAMS Planning Enterprise of Colorado beta tested the device on projects in Nevada during spring of 2006. The Missoula Technology & Development Center tested the ike's GPS accuracy in fall of 2006. Currently, the device is being beta tested by the Osceola NF.

After beta testing, SDTDC will prepare a report that summarizes the input from testers and provide an evaluation of the suitability of the ike 304 for field use by USFS.