Estimating the Zero-Plane Displacement and Roughness Length for Tall Vegetation and Forest Canopies Using Semi-empirical Wind Profiles

Abstract

A simple method based on a mass-conservation principle is presented for estimating the aerodynamic characteristics of forest and tall vegetation canopies. The method uses semi-empirical modifications of the profiles in the transition layer, eliminating the need for measured wind data extending into the logarithmic regime. Also, various schemes are presented for determining the transition-layer depth z* in terms of the particular physical characteristics of the canopy.