Application 1:  
Forest inventory, characterization, and cover type mapping. 

We will draw on our experience in using satellite-based remotely sensed data for mapping and characterization of lodgepole pine cover types (seral stages) in Yellowstone National Park. Maps of height, density, basal area, LAI, and biomass will form the base products from which forest cover type maps will be generated, based on typical ranges for cover type stands as defined by Despain (1990), below.

Cover type maps generated using the geostatistical models will be compared to existing cover type maps developed by the National Park Service, and to cover type point observations collected during previous research in the Central Plateau.