Using SIR-C SAR data and the AMAP model for forest attributes retrieval and 3-D stand simulation

Space-borne Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data and the plant architectural model AMAP are new tools, currently under development and validation, for the retrieval and mapping of forest parameters through a Geographical Information System (GIS). On one hand L-band SAR data are useful for the retrieval of some forest attributes such as age and woody volume. On the other hand, validated growth model of free architecture allows retrieval of many forest parameters at tree level and simulation of virtual 3-D views both at the tree and stand levels. To this aim, a methodology is proposed using L-KV SIR-C SAR data or AMAP alone or their coupling through a GIS for forest attributes retrieval and 3-D stand simulation. This approach is illustrated on a simple forest ecosystem, an Austrian pine forest over hilly terrain in southern of France. Results show the potentialities and interests in using such tools when retrieval bole volume is limited to 300 m(3)/ha; AMAP allowed estimation according to tree (compartment) partitioning as a function of growth stage. The coupling approach gives realistic 3-D stand visualization when it is exercised with GIS data sets and error sources are pointed out toward future improvement and generalization. (C) Elsevier Science Inc., 2001. All Rights Reserved.