Multi-sensor remote sensing of wetland change

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This research will examine interactions between disturbances and peatland ecosystem change. There are three main objectives. 1) Develop methods to use remotely-sensed imagery and field data measurements to create accurate maps that can be updated regularly, and that capture peatland locations, vegetation and hydrologic conditions (e.g. wetness): Many areas of research (e.g. climate, weather and hydrological models), policy development and international agreements (e.g. UNFCCC, Paris agreement) require peatland maps. Previous research has largely focused on producing static data products at specific time intervals. This research will integrate time series analysis techniques, enabling the creation of timely maps that reflect natural and human induced impacts on peatland ecohydrological characteristics. 2) Develop methods to identify and characterize drought conditions in peatlands and to spatially model the susceptibility of wildfire occurrence using remotely-sensed imagery: Hydrology and surface water in peatlands is largely controlled by precipitation, which is monitored sparsely throughout boreal peatlands. Landscape-level hydrological precursors to wildfire in these systems are poorly studied and there exists no maps/data products of peatland wildfire likelihood. Accelerated burning in boreal peatlands will lead to a drastic increase in carbon emissions, yet the ability to predict peatland susceptibility to wildfire is limited. Through this research, remote-sensing methods will be developed to identify and characterize drought conditions in peatlands and to spatially model the susceptibility of wildfire occurrence. 3) Examine spatio-temporal variability of carbon losses from wildfire and other disturbances: Peatlands store and sequester more carbon than any other landscape, yet natural and anthropogenic disturbances can cause shifts in hydrologic and fire regimes, vegetation assemblages, and thawing permafrost, leading to changes in peatland carbon storage potential. Using remote sensing techniques coupled with intense field monitoring at selected known disturbed and undisturbed sites, this research objective will link disturbances to changes in carbon storage and carbon loss. Pre- and post-fire surface measurements derived from remote sensing will be used to model carbon loss. This research will lead to advances in peatland ecohydrology, remote sensing and fire science by developing methods of fire susceptibility mapping, ensuring quicker fire response and advanced warning for potential large fires and smoldering, enhancing the safety and security of Canadians. Novel remote sensing techniques will be developed, resulting in improved mapping products that will contribute to earth systems and climate models, and inform the development of nature-based climate solutions. It will also contribute to critically needed advancements in understanding the effects of natural and anthropogenic disturbances on these carbon rich environments.