Whether NSVB-based AGB maps are simple rescalings of CRM-based maps or exhibit new spatial patterns

Determine whether aboveground biomass maps generated using National Scale Volume and Biomass Estimators (NSVB)-based FIA reference data can be obtained by simple linear rescaling of maps generated using the Component Ratio Method (CRM), or whether NSVB-based maps exhibit distinct spatial patterns across landscapes relative to CRM-based maps.

Background

The transition from CRM to NSVB increases national AGB estimates and changes species- and region-specific contributions, especially through improved estimation of tops and limbs. This raises concerns about the comparability of existing CRM-based AGB map products to new NSVB-based products.

If NSVB-based maps could be produced by simple rescaling of CRM-based maps, then legacy products might remain usable after transformation. If not, NSVB may induce spatially varying differences that require retraining models and regenerating maps.