Biophysical parameters

Canada Centre for Mapping and Earth Observation  Long Term Satellite Data Records, are being used to generate a variety of surface biophysical parameters important to understanding and monitoring climate change.

These include Leaf area index (LAI), snow cover, lake ice cover, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), surface albedo, among others. Active research continues on enhancing continuity and performance of LAI and snow cover algorithms with an emphasis on approaches for using advanced sensor to produce information suitable for consistent regional monitoring applications.

These parameters are being further developed in order to assess changes in wildlife habitat, watersheds, permafrost and vegetation across Canada and the north in support of cumulative impact monitoring and ecosystem assessment.