Epsilon prepared photosimulation graphics of a proposed 50-turbine wind park in Canada.  The proposed turbines were rendered on digital photographs using EMD's WindPRO software.  Epsilon linked the digital photography to the landscape using a detailed terrain model and photograph control points, which were inputs to the WindPRO model.  Wind turbine parameters specific to the project were entered into the model for the final rendering. 

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Epsilon was contracted to determine the feasibility of sound barrier construction in order to reduce traffic noise for a residential property.  Using noise measurement and traffic count data, Epsilon staff develed a computer noise model of the existing site using FHWA's TNM traffic noise model.  The model incorporated highway vehicle types, volumes & speeds, ground terrain elevations, and tree zones to accurately reproduce existing measured sound conditions.  The recommended noise barrier fence design was illustrated via before and after photograph simulations.  The visual analysis proved that the aesthetic views from the property would not be affected by the increase in fence height.

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Epsilon developed a detailed visual impact report in accordance with state permitting requirements.  A 3-D terrain model of the quarry site and surrounding area was constructed using 3-D modeling software in GIS, which was used to develop a viewshed model to predict areas of visibility with 5 miles of the project site.  Epsilon also produced detailed line-of-site profile graphics from sensitive receptors.

Epsilon's map products developed for this project were featured in ESRI's annual Map Book.  Click here to view the maps on ESRI's Map Gallery site.

Epsilon was contracted to determine the potential view of a proposed pipeline meter station from a historic burial ground.  GIS was used to develop a 3-D model of the meter station components and an elevation model of the site area.  Fieldwork was performed to assess the potential field-of-view, employing a high-accuracy GPS to pinpoint observer locations, proposed meter station elements, and view obstructions.  The 3-D meter station model was then superimposed on a digital photograph to illustrate the field-of-view.

GIS was employed to analyze the visual impact of 5 proposed wind turbines in Western Massachusetts.  Epsilon constructed a viewshed model which predicted turbine visibility.  Sensitive receptors, including historic resources and recreational areas, were highlighted and plotted on the map.  Line-of-sight profile graphics were developed to illustrate the screening effect of topography and vegetation on selected sightlines.