ValLAI_Crop, a validation dataset for coarse-resolution satellite LAI products over Chinese cropland

Numerous validation efforts have been conducted over the last decade to assess the accuracy of global leaf area index (LAI) products. However, such efforts continue to face obstacles due to the lack of sufficient high-quality field measurements. In this study, a fine-resolution LAI dataset consisting of 80 reference maps was generated during 2003–2017. The direct destructive method was used to measure the field LAI, and fine-resolution LAI images were derived from Landsat images using semiempirical inversion models. Eighty reference LAI maps, each with an area of 3 km × 3 km and a percentage of cropland larger than 75%, were selected as the fine-resolution validation dataset. The uncertainty associated with the spatial scale effect was also provided. Ultimately, the fine-resolution reference LAI dataset was used to validate the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) LAI product. The results indicate that the fine-resolution reference LAI dataset builds a bridge to link small sampling plots and coarse-resolution pixels, which is extremely important in validating coarse-resolution LAI products.