Work

PixSim: Enhancing high-resolution large-scale forest simulations

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: PixSim is a flexible, open-source forest growth simulator designed to operate at the pixel level of high-resolution, wall-to-wall forest resource maps generated through remote sensing approaches. PixSim addresses the need to adapt forest growth simulators to the data produced by modern remote sensing-based forest inventories, rather than relying on stand-level averages from traditional field-based inventories. By operating at the pixel level, PixSim captures intra-stand variability in high-resolution forest resource maps, which is often overlooked by stand-level simulators. This capability aligns with the current focus on precision forestry, aimed at improving management decisions with localized data and small-scale management. Implemented in the R programming language, PixSim features minimal package dependencies, provides flexibility and scalability, and has been optimized for high-resolution, large-scale simulations, ensuring efficient computation. The simulator’s flexibility and open-source nature support the incorporation of management modules and the inclusion of climate change scenarios in simulations. • PixSim forest simulator captures intra-stand variability with pixel-level simulations. • Adapts to modern remote sensing-based forest inventories. • Flexible, open-source tool implemented in R.

Source: Software Impacts

DOI: 10.1016/j.simpa.2024.100695

Authors: Nicolas Cattaneo, Rasmus Astrup, Clara Antón-Fernández

Institution: Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research

Language: English

Topic: Forest ecology and management

Subfield: Nature and Landscape Conservation

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $480