Vegetation height estimation based on machine learning model driven by multi-source data in Eurasian temperate grassland

• Characterization and Optimal Feature Combinations for Vegetation Height in the Eurasian Steppe. • Identification of the Optimal Machine Learning Model for Modeling Grassland Heights and its Performance Evaluation. • Generation of the First Long-Term Temperate Eurasian Steppe Vegetation Height Dataset. • Temporal and Spatial Variability of Grassland Heights in the Eurasian Steppe. Eurasian Steppes, the world’s largest grassland ecosystem, significantly contribute to our ecological environment. Grassland height is a crucial biophysical factor, offering insights into vertical vegetation structure and regional ecosystem dynamics. Therefore, investigating the trends in changes of grassland height in Steppes is vital for sustainable land use and ecological balance. This study utilized machine learning models such as Random Forest (RF), AdaBoost, BP-Neural Network (BPNN), and Stacking Ensemble, combining them with topographic and meteorological data, MODIS reflectance data, and grassland height measurement data. The first Eurasian temperate grassland vegetation height dataset was finally generated. The results highlighted the superior performance of the Random Forest with an R 2 of 0.54, RMSE of 7.39 cm, and MPAE of 49.25 %. Spatial and temporal analyses revealed a discernible spatial distribution in grassland heights across Eurasia, characterized by a consistent decrease from west to east and north to south. Throughout the year of 2001–2021, there were minor fluctuations in changes of grassland heights, ranging from 15.93 to 17.99 cm, with an overall incremental trend of 0.027 cm annually. Significance tests indicated that approximately 4.40 % of the surveyed regions, primarily concentrated in northern Central Asia, experiencing a noteworthy increase in grassland height dynamics. Conversely, about 2.10 % of the areas, predominantly located in Inner Mongolia, China, and southern Central Asia, have witnessed a reduction in grassland height. This study reveals both temporal and spatial dynamics by offering a comprehensive dataset on vegetation height in Eurasian temperate grassland. These discoveries bear significant ramifications for land management strategies and the advancement of ecological sustainability objectives. Additionally, they contribute significantly to improve the accuracy of estimates of aboveground biomass and carbon stocks in grassland ecosystems.