creased sensitivity of the Ku-band radar to seasonal
freeze –thaw processes in fall relative to spring. Termination
of the growing season is also likely influenced by additional
factors such as decreased day length and associated light
availability (e.g., Fig. 3), which can reduce photosynthetic
carbon assimilation and help trigger the onset of winter
dormancy and the end of the growing season prior to the
arrival of seasonally frozen temperatures.