Estimating Dense Forest Canopy Structure Using Airborne Laser Scanner Data

Returned laser pulse has certain relationship with vegetation canopy structure (canopy closure, height, LAI, biomass). This study attempts to analyze the characteristics of airborne laser scanner data over very dense forest canopy. Discrete pulse laser scanner data were obtained on April 25, 2004 along with digital aerial color imagery. Using forest stand maps, 14 sample stands of 7 species groups were selected and the elevations from the first and last laser return were compared. From the preliminary analysis, we found that the difference between the first and last return was higher with deciduous forest stand than in coniferous stand. Although difference between the first and the last laser returns often corresponds to tree height, it would not be the case for the forest site having very dense canopy structure.