Topographic correction for biomass retrieval from P-band SAR data in boreal forests

The influence of the ground slope on radar backscatter has been proven to be greater for lower radar frequencies due to deeper canopy penetration. In this study, multiple heading, P-band SAR data of boreal forest in Sweden was used to find a model for topographic correction for improved biomass retrieval. Eleven models were tested and the best model was selected. The selected model was then used for biomass retrieval. Even by means of the most simplified approach, forest biomass could be established with a root-mean-square error of approximately 50 t/ha for HV and 66 t/ha for HH.