Modelling canopy fuel variables for Pinus radiata D. Don in NW Spain with low-density LiDAR data

摘要: Crown fire initiation and spread are key elements in gauging behaviour potential conifer forests. models implemented widely used simulation systems such as FARSITE FlamMap require accurate spatially explicit estimation of canopy fuel complex characteristics. In the present study, we evaluated use very low-density airborne LiDAR (light detection ranging) data (0.5 first returns m-2) - which is freely available for most Spanish territory to estimate characteristics Pinus radiata D. Don stands north-western Spain. Regression analysis indicated strong relationships (R2 = 0.82-0.98) between LiDAR-derived metrics field-based estimates stand height, load, average effective base height Average bulk density 0.59-0.70) were estimated indirectly from a set previously modelled forest variables. The LiDAR-based developed can be elaborate geo-referenced raster files describe These generated periodically, whenever new released by National Plan Aerial Orthophotography, inputs systems.