Abstract

There are about 4 million hectares of oak woodlands in California. Oak woodlands have some of the highest levels of biodiversity of terrestrial ecosystems in California. For example, there are approximately 1,100 native vascular plant species in this important ecosystem. Similarly the Mediterranean forests of central Chile have been declared to be a “hotspot” for biodiversity. The decline of biodiversity is an issue of global concern. Using field measurement alone to assess biodiversity doesn’t provide the synoptic view needed to manage and protect biodiversity at the landscape, regional and national levels. Thus, we need to accurately estimate and monitor biodiversity using remote sensing technology in combination with select field measurements to calibrate the remote sensing models. But, this field is relatively new and best methodologies and satellite sensors needed for this task still not been resolved. We have a tremendous opportunity to push this science forward using field and remotely sensed data from two important Mediterranean areas (central Chile and central California) for comparative studies that will aid in discovering the most appropriate technologies for this task. Our team is well suited for this undertaking having the array of analytic and field skills needed to be successful. The teams provide complementary capabilities that are together stronger than our individual teams. Our project will help train graduate students and young researchers in this emerging field. We envision that we will be able to seek additional funding through the NSF Research Coordination Networks Program to continue this research, education and training collaboration.