MODIS VCF

Introduction

The Modis VCF (Vegetation Continuous Fields) data holds a global 500 x 500 m resolution dataset on the vegetation cover. The dataset consists of three files: Percent trees, bare ground and herbaceous vegetation. The WindPRO online data service converts these three files into a roughness classification legend. The Modis VCF is an annual representation of the period November 2000 to November 2001.

Coverage

The coverage is near global. Only Antarctica and the polar region above 80 degrees north is missing. Please note that this roughness classification is based on a vegetation index only. Thus, urban areas must be added manually. In addition, the conversion from vegetation cover to roughness classification is still experimental only.

EMD Processing

An overview is of the EMD legend is shown in the table below. This legend is created by using a simple algorithm for the conversion from canopy cover to roughness class. For now, this algorithm is a simple linear relationship – a function of the canopy cover only. At a later stage, this algorithm may be improved by adding dependencies on herbaceous vegetation and bare ground percentages.

Acknowledgement

Raw data source for this dataset was the Global Land Cover Facility at http://www.landcover.org