Alaska Science Center


LIDAR-based biomass and structure mapping in the Yukon River Basin

This project utilizes multi-scale LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), Landsat, and other geospatial data, as well as field-sampled data, to map aboveground tree and shrub biomass within the Yukon River Basin.

Abstract


Current climate predictions indicate that high northern latitude ecosystems will experience significant change over the next century and beyond. This is expected to have an impact on forest structure, and therefore on the flux of carbon in the boreal forests that contribute to these ecosystems. Characterizing and monitoring these changes in forest structure and carbon exchange is critical to understanding the impacts of these changes on ecosystem performance. In Alaska, with its expansive and inaccessible forests, remote sensing is integral to an active forest monitoring system. This study leverages field observations and remote sensing data to generate tree and shrub biomass and forest structure estimates for the Yukon River Basin of Alaska.

Contacts

Wylie, Bruce K., 605.594.6078

Status: onGoing
Start Year: 2010
End Year:

Project Sites

Location
Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge

USGS Mission Area and Program
Land ResourcesClimate Research and Development