Articles | Volume 13, issue 1
https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-13-237-2019
https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-13-237-2019
Brief communication
 | 
25 Jan 2019
Brief communication |  | 25 Jan 2019

Brief communication: Rapid machine-learning-based extraction and measurement of ice wedge polygons in high-resolution digital elevation models

Charles J. Abolt, Michael H. Young, Adam L. Atchley, and Cathy J. Wilson

Model code and software

CNN-watershed: A machine-learning based tool for delineation and measurement of ice wedge polygons in high-resolution digital elevation models Abolt, CJ; Young, MH; Atchley, AL; Wilson, CJ https://doi.org/10.5821/zenodo.2537167

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Short summary
We present a workflow that uses a machine-learning algorithm known as a convolutional neural network (CNN) to rapidly delineate ice wedge polygons in high-resolution topographic datasets. Our workflow permits thorough assessments of polygonal microtopography at the kilometer scale or greater, which can improve understanding of landscape hydrology and carbon budgets. We demonstrate that a single CNN can be trained to delineate polygons with high accuracy in diverse tundra settings.