Project Number: 5402-66000-005-04
Project Type: Specific C/A

Start Date: Mar 15, 2000
End Date: Mar 14, 2005

Objective:
Develop algorithms to estimate biomass and other variables on grasslands using remotely sensed data. Produce data products for rangeland managers to assess forage production, habitat values, fire fuel loads, and protection from erosion. Assess the willingness of users to pay for these products.

Approach:
Collect frequent vegetation and radiometric data in focus areas in Southwestern Arizona and Colorado, along with less frequent collection in other grassland locations in the West. Develop algorithms to estimate vegetation cover and biomass. Working primarily with public rangeland managers, produce paper or digital GIS data layers based on the estimates of vegetation cover and biomass to meet manager's needs. The potential for commercial provision of this information will be assessed based on costs of providing data layers (after algorithms have been developed) and the willingness of rangeland managers to pay for these products. Michigan State has an independent research program to develop new algorithms to predict biological attributes of rangeland ecosystems. ARS is developing methods to predict the future state of rangeland ecosystems based on proposed changes in land management practices through development and application of simulation models (i.e., GPFARM and SPUR models). Both have a mutual interest to develop and deliver a standardized approach.

Project Team

Dunn, Gale Jiaguo Qi - Assistant Professor (970)490-8323

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002   FY 2001   FY 2000

Related National Programs

Rangeland, Pasture, and Forages (205)   Integrated Farming Systems (207)