Ecosystem productivity map used in Biodiversity Atlas by BC Ministry of Environment

Net Primary Productivity (NPP) was mapped for Canada's landmass in an ERCC project. The blue end of the spectrum represents low productivity; the pink end represents high.
Net Primary Productivity (NPP) was mapped for Canada's landmass in an ERCC project. The blue end of the spectrum represents low productivity; the pink end represents high. larger image

The ecosystem Net Primary Productivity (NPP) map produced by scientists working in the Enhancing Resilience in a Changing Climate (ERCC) Program has been used by Biodiversity BC in its Biodiversity Atlas. NPP is a measure of the rate of biomass accumulation as a result of photosynthesis. It serves as a key indicator for ecosystem health and services.

Scientists led by Dr. Shusen Wang at the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing (CCRS) developed the EALCO model (Ecosystem Assimilation of Land and Climate Observations). The model simulates ecosystem-climate interactions using numerical schemes and assimilates a number of satellite observations. The NPP is one of the main outputs from the EALCO model. The NPP map included in the Biodiversity Atlas serves as an important information source for decision-makers in forestry and farming sectors, and for local planners for nature conservancy and environmental assessment.

The Net Primary Productivity map produced by scientists in the ERCC program (above right) was used to create this map for the Biodiversity Atlas.
The Net Primary Productivity map produced by scientists in the ERCC program (above right) was used to create this map for the Biodiversity Atlas. larger image

Other products from this work include remote sensing-based ecosystem water and energy cycle parameters which provide information for water resources management and land use evaluation. The EALCO model is currently being included in two international projects: the “FACE-Model Interaction” project led by the US Department of Energy and the “Radiation transfer Model Intercomparison (RAMI)” project led by Joint Research Centre of European Commission.

For more information about this project, refer to:

Contact: Dr. Shusen Wang, (613) 947-3592.