Sensitivity analysis of a carbon simulation model and its application in a montane forest environment
Files
Date
2006
Authors
Xu, Shiyong
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Arts and Science
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Arts and Science, 2006
Abstract
Accurate estimation of Net Primary Productivity (NPP), which is a key
component of the terrestrial carbon cycle, is very important in studies of global climate.
Ecosystem models have been used for NPP estimates. Determining how much each
source of uncertainty contributes to modeled NPP is veiy important before ecosystem
models can be used with confidence over larger areas and time periods. This research has
systematically evaluated the boreal ecosystem productivity simulator (BEPS) carbon
model in mountainous terrain, Kananaskis, Alberta. After parameterization of the model,
sensitivity analysis was conducted as a controlled series of experiments involving
sensitivity simulations with BEPS by changing a model input value in separate model
runs. The results showed that NPP was sensitive to most model inputs measured in the
study area, but that the most important input variables for BEPS were LAI and forest
species. In addition, the NPP uncertainty resulting from topographic influence was
approximately 3.5 %, which is equivalent to 140 kg C ha"1 yr"1. This suggested that
topographic correction for the model inputs was also important for accurate NPP
estimation.
Using the topographically corrected data, the carbon dynamics were simulated, and average annual NPP production by forests in Kananaskis was estimated at 4.01 T ha"1
in 2003.
Description
xix, 117 leaves : col. ill. ; 29 cm.
Keywords
Dissertations, Academic , Carbon cycle (Biogeochemistry) -- Alberta -- Kananaskis Region , Carbon cycle (Biogeochemistry) -- Research -- Alberta -- Kananasikis Region , Primary productivity (Biology) -- Alberta -- Kananaskis Region , Forest productivity -- Alberta -- Kananaskis Region , Forest productivity -- Climatic factors -- Alberta -- Kananaskis Region , Forests and forestry -- Alberta -- Kananaskis Region -- Research