Forecasting tree mortality using change metrics derived from MODIS satellite data

Abstract

Insect-induced tree mortality can cause substantial timber and carbon losses in many regions of the world. There is a critical need to forecast tree mortality to guide forest management decisions. Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite imagery provides inexpensive and frequent coverage over large areas, facilitating forest health monitoring. This study examined time series of MODIS satellite images to forecast tree mortality for a Pinus radiata plantation in southern New South Wales, Australia. Dead tree density derived from ADS40 aerial imagery was used to evaluate the performance of change metrics derived from time series of MODIS-based vegetation indices. Continuo..