Estimation of above ground biomass in Indian tropical forested area using multi-frequency DLR-ESAR data.

Abstract

This paper presents experimental results obtained with DLRESAR airborne data in C, L and P bands over the parts of Gujarat, India. The aim is to estimate the above ground biomass and quantify various levels of above ground forest biomass with the help of empirical relationship of the backscattering coefficients and ground inventory. Extensive field data were collected to characterize forest vegetation parameters in the plots. Ground inventory data viz., GBH, tree height was collected. Plot level above ground tree biomass (AGB) is estimated from the collected ground data using the existing allometric equations at stand level in the study area. Regression analysis is carried out between above ground biomass and backscatter coefficient of C, L and P bands in VV polarization. The obtained regression equation was used to estimate the above ground biomass from ESAR data in C, L and P bands. Results showed that with increase in the biomass levels, backscattering coefficient also increases and Cband ESAR data is capable of predicting biomass up to 70 Mg/ha, Lband upto 150 Mg/ha and Pband upto 200 Mg/ha. Comparison of the estimated above ground biomass of airborne microwave DLRESAR data in C, L and Pbands was also carried out.