Using the Intensity Values Obtained from Terrestrial Laser Scanner for Monitoring the Effects of Plant Disease: The Case Study of Gorgognolo (Italy)

The continuous growth of agricultural production requires efficient strategies to manage the cultivation activities and ensure a high-quality standard for the food products. In this regard, the increased circulation of pathogens, also exacerbated by the consequences of climate change, represents a threat for environmental and agricultural assets. By the way of example, in recent years, the Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) bacterium has caused significant damage to the olive growing in the Apulia region, located in the south of Italy, with a consequent relevant economic impact. Geomatic methodologies for the acquisition and processing of ground spatial data can play a crucial role in the prompt identification of the effects of potentially harmful phenomena, such as Xf is, thus helping to develop effective countermeasures. This work presents the results of the analysis of a high-resolution three-dimensional dataset acquired with a Terrestrial Laser Scanner, which is generally used to reconstruct the shape of objects and structures. In this work, the intensity parameter associated to the point cloud has been investigated to infer information on the progression of the plant disease on a set of olive trees located in the Salento peninsula (Italy). These preliminary results could constitute the basis to design a strategy useful to monitor the effects of the spreading of Xf on medium-scale areas.