Monitoring wetland hydrology in Atlantic Canada using multi-temporal and multi-beam Radarsat data

Abstract

Wetland complexes comprise a large percentage of ground cover in central Labrador, Canada, and contain some of the largest peatlands in North America. The region experiences long cold winters and short cool summers, resulting in a limited growth period. Fens and bogs are the dominant wetland types. The level of moisture saturation, chemistry, topography and climate influence the development of wetland systems. Slight changes in these environmental factors can significantly alter vegetation species and health. As persistent cloud cover often limits the utility of optical remotely sensed data in Atlantic Canada, the value of using the all-weather capabilities of radar data become evident. Temporal sequences of Radarsat images were acquired in May, June and August 1999. During each time period, four Radarsat scenes with incidence angles spanning 20-49° (Standard 1, 4, 7 and Fine 1) were acquired. This paper describes changes in radar backscatter as a function of incidence angle, vegetation structure and moisture conditions.