Systematic mapping of Leaf Area Index across Canada using 250-meter MODIS data

An approach to generate a 250-meter Canada wide Leaf Area Index (LAI) map using 250-meter MODIS data is described. The full processing chain is introduced. The approach is based on intercalibration of Landsat and MODIS vegetation indices (VI's) combined with LAI–VI's empirical relationships. Preliminary validation over two sites where field work was carried out shows promising results. Intercalibration of MODIS VI's before deriving LAI maps provides up to 65% improvement of the LAI overall accuracy.