Water Cloud Model for above Ground Biomass Retrival in Savanna Woodlands

Yaqing Gou, Casey Ryan, Heiko Balzter

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Statistical relationship between above ground biomass and radar backscatter described by an empirical model, even it is quite strong, failed to include the physics of scattering from the target area, which hinders widespread implementation of this model for biomass retrieval. To account for soil moisture in woody biomass estimation, Water Cloud Model, a semi-empirical model based on physics of radar scattering both from vegetation and soil moisture is suggested. However, application of WCM is hindered by the lack of a generally agreed theoretical background allowing definition of model descriptors and parameters. In this study, we analyse the effectiveness of WCM to improve the accuracy of biomass retrieval by proposing a suitable WCM formulation for biomass retrieval using L-band SAR at HV polarisation in miombo woodlands. Results indicated that WCM reduce biomass estimation uncertainties by correcting soil moisture effects compared to linear and exponential statistical models.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2019 IEEE International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium, IGARSS 2019 - Proceedings
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages6011-6014
Number of pages4
ISBN (Electronic)9781538691540
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jul 2019
Event39th IEEE International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium, IGARSS 2019 - Yokohama, Japan
Duration: 28 Jul 20192 Aug 2019

Publication series

NameInternational Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium (IGARSS)

Conference

Conference39th IEEE International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium, IGARSS 2019
Country/TerritoryJapan
CityYokohama
Period28/07/192/08/19

Keywords

  • Biomass
  • L-band SAR
  • Savanna
  • Water Cloud Model

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