The Earth Observing System and forest management

Abstract

Inexpensive, readily available, and frequently updated: These are the important characteristics of biophysical data coming from the first satellite launched as part of the Earth Observing System. For forest managers, the data can help detect and monitor fires, determine seasonal and annual productivity across ownerships, even estimate national carbon balances for environmental policy plans. Although the variables do not distinguish all forest cover types, processing modifications will soon allow more detailed calculations.