Remote sensing of Land Surface dynamics along the Appalachian Trail

In this paper, we analyzed the trends and interannual variation of Land Surface Phenology (LSP) for a corridor area along the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) using time series Global Inventory Modeling & Mapping Studies (GIMMS) data. We studied the trends and patterns for the two time periods between 1982-1999 and 1982-2006. We compared the LSP metrics for the entire A.T. corridor and sections in different mapping zones. The results indicate that the growing season or duration of greenness have lengthened along the corridor and all sections. The results also reveal the variations of LSP metrics. The extended duration of greenness were mainly contributed by the delayed end of greenness or end of season metrics. Variations of LSP metrics in specific years agreed well with global climate indices.