On promoting the use of lidar systems in forest ecosystem research

Abstract Forest structure is an important driver of ecosystem dynamics, including the exchange of carbon, water and energy between canopies and the atmosphere. Structural descriptors are also used in numerous studies of ecological processes and ecosystem services. Over the last 20+ years, lidartechnology has fundamentally changed the way we observe and describe forest structure, and it will continue to impact the ways in which we investigate and monitor the relations between forest structure and functions. Here we present the currently available lidarsystem types (ground, air, and space-based), we highlight opportunities and challenges associated with each system, as well as challenges associated with a wider use of lidartechnology and wider availability of lidarderived products. We also suggest pathways for lidarto further contribute to addressing questions in forest ecosystem science and increase benefits to a wider community of researchers.