Geospatial technologies are integral to the work of the Watershed Conservation Research Center.
Geospatial Intern Taryn Laplatney ’26 applied her advanced expertise in geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning systems (GPS), remote sensing, and small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) technology to support a diverse range of local and regional stakeholders over the course of the summer.
For the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, Taryn generated detailed, landscape-scale variables for 67 watersheds, providing data critical for resource management and conservation planning. In partnership with the French Creek Valley Conservancy, she conducted a comprehensive suitability analysis for a proposed canoe launch site along French Creek, integrating environmental, logistical, and spatial considerations into her assessment.
Taryn’s drone operations utilized both multirotor and fixed-wing platforms to capture high-resolution imagery for a variety of ecological and restoration projects. These included:
Documenting a one-mile stretch of German Run prior to “chop-and-drop” restoration efforts
Recording post-treatment conditions at the Harmonsburg fen following targeted Phragmites removal
Surveying the lawn in front of Pelletier Library in preparation for the installation of pollinator gardens
Her field-based contributions extended beyond aerial surveys. At Bousson Experimental Forest, she collected GPS data to standardize trail marking systems. On campus, she inventoried street sign locations to inform a parking study. For the Meadville Shade Tree Commission, Taryn designed a robust database schema to support a city-wide tree inventory initiative.
In addition to these applied projects, Taryn began developing an Environmental Science and Sustainability (ESS) alumni dashboard to showcase post-graduation career pathways, providing valuable insights for current students. She also created precise routing maps for the newly established cross-country course at Robertson Athletic Complex, enhancing both athletic training and event planning.
Taryn’s summer was marked by an exceptional range of high-impact, data-driven projects. Her contributions not only generated tangible benefits for partner organizations, but also further developed the advanced technical and analytical skills that will serve as a strong foundation for her future career and endeavors.