Estimation of stand attributes in Cryptomeria japonica and Chamaecyparis obtusa stands using QuickBird panchromatic data

This study aims to estimate stand density and stand volume in Cryptomeria japonica and Chamaecyparis obtusa stands from high-resolution satellite data and verify the reliability and uncertainty of the data. Sixty circular sample plots of 0.04 ha each were established. Their stand densities were estimated from the number of tree crowns derived from high-resolution satellite data using the watershed method. Stand densities derived from field surveys in the sample plots were compared with those obtained from high-resolution satellite data by stand age class. As a result, there was a positive correlation between them for sample plots of 41 years of age and over (R = 0.82); however, there was no correlation between them for sample plots of 40 years and under. Individual diameters at breast height (DBH) were estimated from crown areas obtained from high-resolution satellite data for the two species. Using the estimated DBH, individual tree heights were predicted from the height–diameter curves. Stand volumes were estimated from the sum of individual volumes, which were derived from volume formulas having two variables, i.e., DBH and height. Stand volumes derived from the field survey were compared with those obtained from high-resolution satellite data. The correlation coefficient between them for stands of 41 years of age and over was 0.78.