Imaging Exposed Intertidal Flats Using Multi-Polarization Synthetic Aperture Radar

We demonstrate that dual-co-polarization Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery can be used to derive new indicators for bivalve beds on dry-fallen intertidal flats and to investigate radar backscattering mechanisms on exposed sediments and seagrass meadows. The Kennaugh element framework forms the basis for our studies, and particular Kennaugh elements are used to generate maps indicating the location of bivalve beds and to demonstrate the seasonal change of the radar backscattering from exposed intertidal during low tide.