Remote sensing of montane forest structure and biomass: A canopy reflectance model inversion approach

The multiple-forward-mode (MFM) inversion procedure is a set of methods for indirect canopy reflectance model inversion using look-up tables (LUT). This thesis refines the MFM technique with regard to: (1) model parameterization for the MFM canopy reflectance model executions and (2) methods for limiting or describing multiple solutions. Forest stand structure estimates from the inversion were evaluated using 40 field validation sites in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Estimates of horizontal and vertical crown radius were within 0.5m and 0.9m RMSE for both conifer and deciduous species. Density estimates were within 590 stems/ha RMSE for conifer and 310 stems/ha RMSE for deciduous. The most effective inversion method used a variable spectral domain with constrained, fine increment LUTs.; A biomass estimation method was also developed using empirical relationships with crown area. Biomass density estimates using the MFM method were similar to estimates produced using other multispectral analysis methods (RMSE = 50 t/ha).