ACCP: Forest Foliage Carbon and Nitrogen Chemistry

Approximately 1000 leaf samples from 5 geographically distinct sites were analyzed for non-polar, polar, cellulose, and lignin carbon constituents, as well as nitrogen content. This dataset was created as part of NASA's Accelerated Canopy Chemistry Program and analyzed at the University of New Hampshire. Results serve as a calibration set for Visible/NIR reflectance models to estimate canopy carbon and nitrogen concentrations.

Use Cases

• Calibrating Visible/NIR reflectance models based on measured leaf nitrogen content.
• Validating remote sensing estimates of canopy lignin and cellulose concentrations.
• Studying spatial variation in foliar carbon fractions across different forest sites.
• Developing chemometric relationships between leaf chemistry and spectral signatures.

Strengths

• Contains approximately 1000 physically analyzed leaf samples, providing a substantial calibration dataset.
• Samples were analyzed at a single institution (University of New Hampshire) to ensure methodological consistency.
• Covers 5 geographically distinct sites, allowing for analysis of spatial variation.

Limitations

• Column names and exact data structure are unknown, limiting immediate usability.
• There is a conflict in the 'last updated' metadata between platforms (1993 vs. 2026), casting doubt on data currency.
• Available file formats (BIN, PDF, ISO, HTML, PNG, ZIP) suggest the primary data may be packaged within documentation or proprietary files.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Accelerated Canopy Chemistry Program (ACCP).

Collection Method

Laboratory analysis (chemical extraction and combustion) of fresh forest foliage samples.

Time Range

1992-1993

Freshness

Data collection occurred in 1992-1993, though one metadata record shows a 2026 update.

Geography

Five geographically distinct forest sites (specific locations not provided).