Forest LAI Estimation Comparison using LiDAR and Hyperspectral Data in Boreal and Temperate Forests

摘要

This study select coniferous forests site and organized field measurement and airborne data collection campaign in June of 2008. It compared the performances of LAI estimation using LiDAR and hyperspectral data. The preliminary result shows both LiDAR and hyperspectral data were strongly correlated to field measured LAI, and hence, both data types are suitable for large scale mapping of LAI in forests. For hyperspectral data, the mean value from 3 by 3 window gives better LAI estimation than single pixel value. And the simple ratio vegetation index produced higher correlation with LAI than single band. For Lidar data, different forest types (needleleaf and broadleaf) shows different relationships between Lidar return ratio and LAI. Lidar percentile heights improve the LAI estimation in mountainous boreal forests.