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 Infor mation System (GIS). On one hand L-band SAR data are useful for the retriev al of some forest attributes such as age and woody volume. On the other han d, validated growth model of free architecture allows retrieval of many for est parameters at tree level and simulation of virtual 3-D views both at th e 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 att ributes retrieval and 3-D stand simulation. This approach is illustrated on a simple forest ecosystem, an Austrian pine forest over hilly terrain in s outhern of France. Results show the potentialities and interests in using s uch tools when retrieval bole volume is limited to 300 m(3)/ha; AMAP allowe d 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., 20 01. All Rights Reserved.