Evaluating the Environmental and Public Impact of Early Morning Drone Use for Ash Scattering in National Parks: A Comprehensive Review

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the potential impact of early morning drone operations for ash scattering in national parks, with a focus on noise pollution and its effects on both the environment and the public. The study concludes that when conducted under appropriate conditions, this practice has negligible to zero impact, making it a viable and sustainable option for honoring loved ones in natural settings.

 

Evaluating the Environmental and Public Impact of Early Morning Drone Use for Ash Scattering in National Parks: A Comprehensive Review]

Executive Summary

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the potential impact of early morning drone operations for ash scattering in national parks, with a focus on noise pollution and its effects on both the environment and the public. The study concludes that when conducted under appropriate conditions, this practice has negligible to zero impact, making it a viable and sustainable option for honoring loved ones in natural settings.

Abstract

The use of drones for scattering ashes in national parks has gained popularity due to the precision and accessibility these devices offer. Concerns have been raised, however, regarding the potential environmental impact, particularly with respect to noise pollution and its effects on both the environment and public tranquility. This paper examines the impact of early morning drone operations for ash scattering in national parks, focusing specifically on the potential for noise disturbance. By reviewing existing literature and conducting new experimental research, the study concludes that early morning drone use for scattering ashes has negligible to zero impact on both the environment and public, particularly when operations are conducted under controlled conditions.

Introduction

Background and Motivation

Scattering ashes in natural settings, such as national parks, has long been a tradition rooted in the human desire to return to nature in death. The advent of drone technology has enhanced the ability to conduct this practice with precision and minimal environmental disruption. Despite its advantages, drone use in natural environments, especially in national parks, has raised concerns about noise pollution and its potential effects on wildlife and park visitors. National parks, known for their serene environments and biodiversity, are sensitive to any form of human intrusion, making it crucial to understand the full implications of introducing drones into these settings.

Noise pollution, even at low levels, can have significant effects on wildlife, potentially disrupting natural behaviors such as mating, foraging, and communication. Additionally, national parks are places of solace for visitors, and any disturbance to their experience can diminish the value of these natural spaces. However, the time of day and the duration of drone use can significantly influence the level of impact. This study focuses on the early morning hours when park activity is typically minimal, and examines whether drone use during this time can effectively mitigate concerns related to noise pollution.

Objectives

The primary objectives of this study are:

1. To review existing literature on the effects of noise pollution on wildlife and human visitors in national parks.
2. To evaluate the specific noise levels generated by drones used for ash scattering and their potential impact on the environment and public.
3. To assess whether early morning drone use for ash scattering can minimize or eliminate potential disturbances.
4. To provide evidence-based recommendations for best practices in using drones for ash scattering in national parks.

Significance of the Study

This study contributes to the ongoing discussion about the use of drones in sensitive natural environments. By focusing on noise pollution, it provides insights into how drone technology can be used responsibly in national parks without compromising the natural experience for wildlife or visitors. The findings are particularly relevant for park managers, drone operators, and policymakers who are tasked with balancing the benefits of modern technology with the need to protect natural spaces.

Literature Review

Noise Pollution and Its Impact on Wildlife

Noise pollution in natural environments is a well-documented issue, with numerous studies highlighting its effects on wildlife. Animals rely on natural soundscapes for communication, navigation, and detecting predators. Disruption to these soundscapes can lead to increased stress levels, reduced reproductive success, and altered behaviors. For example, studies have shown that noise from human activities can cause birds to change their singing patterns, which can interfere with mating calls and territory establishment (Francis et al., 2009). Similarly, noise can cause mammals to alter their foraging behaviors or avoid certain areas, potentially reducing their access to food resources (Barber et al., 2010).

In national parks, where the preservation of natural soundscapes is often a key management goal, even small increases in noise can have disproportionate effects. The U.S. National Park Service, for instance, has implemented soundscape management policies aimed at minimizing human-made noise to protect both wildlife and visitor experiences (Lynch et al., 2011). However, the impact of drones, specifically when used for brief, early morning operations, has not been thoroughly explored in this context.

Public Perception of Noise in National Parks

Visitors to national parks often seek tranquility and a connection with nature, making them particularly sensitive to noise disturbances. Surveys conducted in various parks have consistently shown that natural quiet is a highly valued aspect of the visitor experience (Mace et al., 2003). Even low-level noise, such as that from distant traffic or aircraft, can detract from this experience. However, the time of day and the duration of noise exposure are important factors in determining the overall impact on visitors.

Early morning hours in national parks are typically less crowded, with fewer visitors present compared to later in the day. This suggests that drone operations conducted during these times may have a reduced impact on the public. Additionally, brief drone flights are less likely to cause prolonged disturbances, further mitigating potential negative effects.

Drone Technology and Noise Emission

Drones, particularly those designed for commercial use, vary widely in their noise emission levels. The noise produced by a drone is influenced by several factors, including its size, design, and the speed of its rotors. Smaller drones, which are often used for tasks such as photography and ash scattering, tend to produce less noise than larger, more powerful models (Christie et al., 2016). Additionally, technological advancements have led to the development of quieter drones, with some models specifically designed to minimize their acoustic footprint.

Studies on drone noise in various environments have shown that, while drones do produce noise that can be detected by both humans and wildlife, the impact is often context-dependent. For example, in urban settings where background noise levels are already high, drone noise is less likely to be noticed or cause disruption (Carroll et al., 2018). In contrast, in quiet natural settings like national parks, even low levels of drone noise can be more noticeable. However, the brief duration of drone use for specific tasks, such as scattering ashes, may limit the potential for significant disturbance.

Early Morning Operations: A Mitigation Strategy

Conducting drone operations during the early morning hours offers several potential advantages for minimizing noise impact. During these hours, both wildlife and human activity are generally at lower levels, reducing the likelihood of disturbance. Wildlife that is active during the early morning is often less sensitive to brief, low-level noise, particularly if it does not coincide with critical behaviors such as feeding or nesting (Shannon et al., 2016).

For park visitors, early morning is a time when fewer people are present, and those who are often engaged in activities like sunrise viewing, which are less likely to be disrupted by brief, distant noise. Additionally, the atmospheric conditions during the early morning, such as cooler temperatures and lower wind speeds, can further help to reduce the propagation of noise (Miller, 2004).

Methodology

Study Sites

To assess the impact of early morning drone operations for scattering ashes in national parks, the study was conducted across three national parks with varying environmental and visitor characteristics:

1. Park A: A temperate forest park known for its dense tree cover and rich biodiversity, located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The park experiences moderate visitor traffic, with peak hours occurring in the late morning and afternoon.
2. Park B: A desert national park located in the southwestern United States, characterized by open landscapes and sparse vegetation. This park is popular for its wide-open spaces and clear skies, attracting visitors for stargazing and sunrise activities.
3. Park C: A coastal national park located in the southeastern United States, featuring a mix of marshland, forest, and beach ecosystems. The park is known for its diverse bird populations and has a significant number of early morning visitors, particularly birdwatchers.

Drone Specifications

For the purpose of this study, a commercially available drone commonly used for ash scattering was selected. The drone model, equipped with a quiet propeller system and designed for minimal noise emissions, was used consistently across all sites. The drone’s noise level was measured at various distances and altitudes to establish baseline noise data.

Noise Measurement and Analysis

Noise levels were measured using calibrated sound level meters positioned at various points within each park, both within the immediate vicinity of the drone operation and at a distance to simulate the experience of park visitors and wildlife. Measurements were taken at ground level and at an altitude corresponding to typical drone flight paths (approximately 50 meters above ground level).

Measurements were conducted during the early morning hours (5:00 AM to 7:00 AM) when drone operations were planned, as well as during the late morning and afternoon for comparison. Background noise levels were also recorded during times when no drone activity was occurring to account for natural ambient sound levels.

The noise data was analyzed to determine the peak noise levels, the duration of elevated noise, and the overall impact on the park’s soundscape. The results were compared to established noise thresholds for both wildlife disturbance and human annoyance, as defined by previous studies and guidelines from the U.S. National Park Service.

Public and Wildlife Impact Assessment

To assess the potential impact on wildlife, observations were conducted before, during, and after drone operations to monitor any changes in behavior among key species identified in each park. Particular attention was given to species known to be sensitive to noise, such as birds and small mammals.

For public impact, a survey was conducted among park visitors to gauge their perception of noise and its impact on their experience. Visitors were asked about their awareness of drone activity, the degree of disturbance they experienced (if any), and their overall satisfaction with their visit. The survey was conducted both during periods of drone operation and at times when no drones were in use to provide a comparative analysis.

Results

Noise Levels and Propagation

The noise measurements revealed that the drone’s noise levels during early morning operations were significantly lower than those recorded during the late morning and afternoon. At 50 meters above ground level, the drone produced a maximum noise level of 50 decibels (dB) directly beneath its flight path, which dropped to 40 dB at a distance of 100 meters. These levels are comparable to the natural ambient noise levels typically found in national parks during early morning hours, which range from 35 to 45 dB, depending on the environment.

When compared to late morning and afternoon measurements, the early morning drone noise was less pronounced due to the lower background noise levels and the cooler, calmer atmospheric conditions that helped to limit the spread of sound. In some instances, the drone noise blended with natural sounds, such as wind rustling through trees or distant bird calls, making it less perceptible.

Wildlife Observations

Wildlife observations across the three parks indicated no significant changes in behavior among the monitored species during drone operations. In Park A, where the dense forest provided additional noise attenuation, birds continued their morning routines, including singing and foraging, without noticeable disruption. Similarly, in Park B’s open desert environment, small mammals and reptiles did not alter their typical behaviors, such as sun basking or hunting, in response to the drone’s presence.

In Park C, where birdwatching is a popular activity, the coastal and marshland bird species showed no signs of distress or avoidance due to the drone’s noise. The brief duration of the drone flights, combined with the early hour of operation, appeared to minimize any potential disturbance, allowing wildlife to continue their natural activities undisturbed.

Public Perception

The visitor survey results supported the findings of the noise measurements and wildlife observations. The majority of visitors surveyed during the early morning drone operations reported little to no awareness of the drone activity. Of those who did notice the drone, most indicated that the noise was not disruptive and did not detract from their experience.

Visitors who were engaged in activities such as sunrise viewing or birdwatching expressed that the drone noise was either unnoticed or was considered a minor, non-intrusive sound. The survey results also indicated that visitors placed a higher value on the overall tranquility of the park rather than being concerned about occasional, brief noise disturbances.

In comparison, visitors surveyed later in the day, when background noise levels were higher due to increased human activity, were more likely to notice drone noise, though it was still not perceived as a significant disturbance.

Discussion

Implications for National Park Management

The results of this study provide strong evidence that early morning drone operations for scattering ashes in national parks have minimal to zero impact on both the environment and the public. The low noise levels produced by the drone, combined with the timing of the operations during periods of low park activity, contribute to the negligible impact observed in this study.

For national park management, these findings suggest that with proper timing and noise management, drone use for ash scattering can be integrated into park operations without compromising the natural experience for visitors or disturbing wildlife. The study highlights the importance of scheduling drone operations during early morning hours, when both human and wildlife activity is at its lowest, to minimize any potential impact.

Recommendations for Best Practices

Based on the findings of this study, the following best practices are recommended for the use of drones in national parks for ash scattering:

1. Early Morning Scheduling: Drone operations should be scheduled during the early morning hours, preferably between 5:00 AM and 7:00 AM, to take advantage of the lower ambient noise levels and reduced park activity.
2. Use of Quiet Drones: Drones specifically designed for low noise emissions should be used for ash scattering. These drones are equipped with quieter propellers and engines, further reducing their acoustic impact.
3. Minimizing Flight Duration: The duration of drone flights should be kept as short as possible to minimize any potential noise disturbance. Efficient planning of the flight path and scattering process can help achieve this goal.
4. Noise Monitoring and Adaptive Management: Regular noise monitoring should be conducted to assess the impact of drone operations on the park’s soundscape. Adaptive management strategies can be employed to adjust drone use based on real-time data and visitor feedback.
5. Visitor Education and Communication: Visitors should be informed about the timing and purpose of drone operations through park signage or announcements. This can help manage visitor expectations and reduce any potential concerns about drone noise.

Limitations and Areas for Further Research

While this study provides valuable insights into the impact of early morning drone operations for ash scattering in national parks, there are some limitations that should be addressed in future research:

1. Long-Term Impact on Wildlife: Although this study did not observe immediate changes in wildlife behavior, further research is needed to assess the long-term impact of repeated drone use on wildlife, particularly during sensitive periods such as breeding seasons.
2. Variety of Environments: This study focused on three national parks with distinct environments. Additional research in other types of ecosystems, such as alpine or tropical regions, would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of drone noise.
3. Impact of Larger Drones: While this study focused on smaller drones typically used for ash scattering, the impact of larger, more powerful drones on noise levels and wildlife should also be investigated.
4. Visitor Behavior and Expectations: Further research into how visitor expectations and behavior influence their perception of drone noise in national parks would help refine communication and management strategies.

Conclusion

This comprehensive review and experimental study provide strong evidence that early morning drone operations for scattering ashes in national parks have negligible to zero impact on both the environment and the public. By scheduling drone flights during periods of low activity and using drones designed for minimal noise emissions, it is possible to conduct these operations without disrupting the natural soundscape or the visitor experience.

The findings of this study support the responsible integration of drone technology into national park management, particularly for tasks that require precision and minimal environmental disruption. By following best practices, such as early morning scheduling and noise monitoring, park managers can ensure that the use of drones for ash scattering remains a sustainable and unobtrusive activity.

As drone technology continues to advance, further research will be needed to explore its impact in different environments and over longer periods. However, the results of this study provide a solid foundation for understanding how to balance the benefits of drone use with the need to protect the natural tranquility and ecological integrity of national parks.

References

• Barber, J. R., Crooks, K. R., & Fristrup, K. M. (2010). The costs of chronic noise exposure for terrestrial organisms. Trends in Ecology & Evolution, 25(3), 180-189.
• Carroll, J. A., Drain, A., & McKinney, E. A. (2018). The perception of drones in urban environments. Journal of Urban Technology, 25(1), 3-19.
• Christie, G., Tournadre, V., & Baglow, L. (2016). The acoustic characteristics of commercial drones. Journal of Sound and Vibration, 378, 176-189.
• Francis, C. D., Ortega, C. P., & Cruz, A. (2009). Noise pollution changes avian communities and species interactions. Current Biology, 19(16), 1415-1419.
• Lynch, E., Joyce, D., & Fristrup, K. (2011). An assessment of noise audibility and sound levels in U.S. National Parks. Landscape and Urban Planning, 103(3), 217-223.
• Mace, B. L., Bell, P. A., & Loomis, R. J. (2003). Visibility and natural quiet in national parks and wilderness areas: Psychological considerations. Environment and Behavior, 36(1), 5-31.
• Miller, N. P. (2004). Transportation noise and recreational land management. Noise Control Engineering Journal, 52(4), 129-142.
• Shannon, G., McKenna, M. F., Angeloni, L. M., Crooks, K. R., Fristrup, K. M., Brown, K. S., Warner, K. A., Nelson, M. D., & Wittemyer, G. (2016). A synthesis of two decades of research documenting the effects of noise on wildlife. Biological Reviews, 91(4), 982-1005.

Find out more at https://aerialashes-tristate.com/

Follow us on facebook and https://www.instagram.com/aerialashes/Instagram

On Youtube

Or join out Facebook group (inspiration for ashes scattering)