Changing PCTs in surfdata

[Andrie]

Dear Team,

I am using CLM5.0 with CESM2.1.2 and want to change a surfdata file to add additional tree cover. Thus, I wrote a python script where I am changing the PCT_CROP, PCT_NATVEG and PCT_NAT_PFT variables in the file surfdata_0.9x1.25_hist_78pfts_CMIP6_simyr2014_c200512.nc. However, I saw that the file also has variables like MONTHLY_LAI and MONTHLY_HEIGHT_TOP/BOTTOM.

I am now wondering if I have to change these variables as well (in particular the LAI one) or if it is enough to change the PCT variables to implement my afforestation and decrease the grass, shrub and cropland area.

Thanks a lot for your help!

 

[oleson]

Those variables are only used in SP (satellite phenology) mode. The fact that you are using a 78pft surface dataset makes me think you are running BGC-Crop, not SP.

 

[Andrie]

Perfect, thanks a lot! You are right, I am running CESM in BGC-Crop mode.