Evaluating the Aster Sensor for Mapping and Characterizing Forest Fire Fuels in Northern Idaho

Authors

Michael J. Falkowski, University of IdahoFollow
Paul Gessler, University of IdahoFollow
Penelope Morgan, University of IdahoFollow
Andrew T. Hudak, Rocky Mountain Research StationFollow
Alistair M.S. Smith, University of IdahoFollow

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

1-19-2006

Citation

Rocky Mountain Research Station Publications, RMRS Online Publication - Journal Articles, External Publications, and Special Reports Electronic Publish Date: January 19, 2006

Abstract

Land managers need cost-effective methods for mapping and characterizing fire fuels quickly and accurately. The advent of sensors with increased spatial resolution may improve the accuracy and reduce the cost of fuels mapping. The objective of this research is to evaluate the accuracy and utility of imagery from the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) satellite and gradient modeling for mapping fuel layers for fire behavior modeling within FARSITE and FLAMMAP. Empirical models, based upon field data and spectral information from an ASTER image, were employed to test the efficacy of ASTER for mapping and characterizing canopy closure and crown bulk density. Surface fuel models (NFFL 1-13) were mapped using a classification tree based upon three gradient layers; potential vegetation type, cover type, and structural stage.