HomeSpatio-spectral temporal dynamics of remotely sensed data from the Konza Prairie Biological Station
Space grant funds were used for an ongoing analysis of spatio-spectral temporal dynamics of remotely sensed data as multiple spatial scales in tallgrass prairie, conducted at the Konza Prairie Biological Station. Spatial and temporal variability in plants and the associated vegetation canopies contributes directly to variation in plant canopy relfectance observable with remote sensing. These patterns of variability can therefore be considered diagnostics for canopy condition.
Running et al. (1999) stated quite simply that the key step for resolving issues of spatial and temporal heterogeneity is to measure it. Funds provided by the Kansas Space Grant Consortium have been used to do exactly that. KSGC funding supported two research programs; (1) measurement patterns of surface heterogeneity at a variety of spatial scales, and (2) collection of in-situ biophysical data to facilitate interpretation of measured spectral patterns and structures. Data collected in the concluded field season included: canopy density, photosynthetic potential, soil moisture, canopy height, absorbed photosynthetically active radiation, foliar and nitrogen content, and plant water content.
As an additional note, the research described above is now fully supported by a grant from the NASA-EPSCoR program. Funding received as part of the KSGC was instrumental in initiating the research program and paving the way for further funding.