Growing stock volume estimation from L-band ALOS PALSAR polarimetric coherence in Siberian forest

摘要: Abstract This paper investigated the potential of L-band ALOS PALSAR full polarimetric radar data for forestry applications. In order to characterize polarization response as a function growing stock volume (GSV), weather conditions and different tree species in Siberian forests, phase difference between HH VV polarizations magnitude HHVV-coherence have been analyzed. Moreover, retrieval accuracy forest (GSV) has evaluated. The investigations were conducted on stand level maximum GSV was 350 m 3 /ha. Using multi-temporal coherence extensive sets inventory at level, we observed clear decrease with an increase GSV, Pearson's correlation coefficient − 0.74 − 0.79. improved − 0.87 stands high relative stocking > 70% (i.e. more homogeneous structure) sensitivity increased ~ 250 m /ha GSV. (PPD) also allowed be discriminated from non-forest areas. Comparison PPD during thawing unfrozen time image acquisition revealed higher contribution scattering latter conditions. addition, differences species. particular, larch typically exhibited + 0.1 under compared aspen, birch pine. There less variability other species, both An exponential model used behavior better conditions, RMSE 33 m R 2 0.73. error slightly (  = 51 m  = 0.61) case area larger than 30 ha least 70%, decreased 16 m  = 19 m respectively.