Estimating some stand parameters using sentinel-2 satellite image in pure red pine stands (a case study in serik forest planning unit)

The purpose of this study is to estimate some stand parameters in pure Turkish pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) stands located within the boundaries of the Antalya Regional Directorate of Forestry, Serik Forest Management Enterprise, and Serik Forest Planning Unit using variables calculated from Sentinel-2 and GEDI (Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation) satellite imagery. A total of 188 sample plot data were used in the study. The sample plot data calculated each sample plot's stand volume, basal area, tree number, and mean diameter. Band reflectance and vegetation indices values were calculated from Sentinel-2 satellite imagery, while canopy height data were derived from GEDI data for the sample plots. Subsequently, the relationships between stand parameters and the data obtained from satellite imagery were modeled using multiple regression analysis. Upon examining the model results, the best coefficient of determination for stand volume (R_adj^2=0,345) was found in the model where vegetation index and GEDI data were included as independent variables. Similarly, the best coefficient of determination for stand basal area (R_adj^2=0,285) was found in the model with vegetation index and GEDI data as independent variables; for tree number (R_adj^2=0,288), it was in the model with band reflectance and vegetation index data as independent variables; and for mean diameter (R_adj^2=0,169), it was in the model with band reflectance, vegetation index, and GEDI data as independent variables. It was observed that the coefficients of determination of the models developed for estimating stand parameters in this study were low.