Integration of GEDI LiDAR, Optical Satellite and In-situ Data for Forest Structure and Biomass Assessment

Accurate information of forest aboveground biomass (AGB) and vertical structure is crucial for sustainable forest management and for understanding the role of forests in the global carbon cycle. Satellite remote sensing in conjunction with ground truth data provides an effective strategy for mapping and monitoring of forest biophysical variables over large areas. The Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) aboard the ISS is a unique sensor which uses infrared laser to observe the forest vertical structure. The present study evaluates the accuracy of GEDI L2A canopy height and L4A biomass in moist deciduous forests of Gariyaband region (Chhattisgarh, India) by using in situ data. We also integrate GEDI data products with optical satellite data for generating spatially continuous canopy height and AGB maps of the study region. We collected ground truth data of vegetation height, tree species and diameter at breast height (DBH) for all trees in 90 sample plots - out of which 70 plots are co-located with the GEDI L2A/L4A footprints, while 20 plots are outside the GEDI footprints. Data processing, model refinement and analysis are currently underway. This study provides a scalable framework for regional canopy height / AGB mapping using GEDI data. It also advances our understanding of the applicability of GEDI science data products for localized/regional forest monitoring and climate-related applications.