Modeling Forest Above-Ground Biomass of Teak (Tectona grandis L. F.) Using Field Measurement and Sentinel-2 Imagery

Abstract

Over the last few decades, remote sensing has emerged as a dependable and cost-effective method for collecting precise data on forest biophysical parameters, aiding in sustainable forest management and global initiatives to combat climate change. This research aimed to develop a model for estimating the above-ground biomass (AGB) of Teak (Tectona grandis L. F.) by combining field measurements with Sentinel-2 earth observation data. The study took place in 36-year-old teak plantation areas within the Sagarnath Forest Development Project in Nepal’s Sarlahi district. Field measurements were conducted using a destructive systematic sampling method, employing 10 × 10 m2 sample plots, and the volume of logs was determined using Newton’s formula. A total of 30 sample plots were used for calibration, while 10 were utilized for validation purposes. The findings revealed that the average AGB per plot was 814 kg (equivalent to 81.4 t ha−1), with a minimum value of 716 kg (71.6 t ha−1) and a maximum value of 1,060 kg (106 t ha−1). The study utilized five independent variables, namely, the Red band, Green band, Blue band, near-infrared (NIR), and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values from Sentinel-2 imagery data, to develop estimation models. Among the 12 models examined, model M10 proved to be the best fit for accurate AGB estimation (adjusted R2 = 0.9809, RMSE = 0.01269, AIC = −170, and p-value = < 8.39e−21). The equation of the best-fitted model was ln (AGB) = A + B × Red + C × Green + D × Blue2 + E × ln (NIR) + F × ln (NDVI), providing an accurate estimate of AGB. Model validation involved a t-test comparing the observed and calculated AGB values for ten sample plots, demonstrating no significant difference (p-value = 0.3662 > 0.05). This model has the potential to facilitate AGB biomass calculations and carbon stock estimates for teak plantations of similar age groups.