Base-age invariant polymorphic site curves

Robert L. Bailey

USDA, Forest Serv.,So Forest  Expt  Stn, New Orleans, LA 70113

Jerome L. Clutter.  

Uinv Georgia, Dept Forest Resources & Statistics, Athens, GA  30601

Abstract

Polymorphic curves fitted by techniques in which site index is a predictor variable are specific to a preselected base age. A new approach eliminates this problem and the need to quantify site quality with the data before estimating parameters. Height-over-age curves for Pinu radiata D. Don in New Zealand are produced with linear least-squares estimation . Bailey, Clutter 1974. For. Sci. 20:155-159

Additional key words

 Anamorphic curves, tree height, Pinus radiata

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A compatible model relating slash pine plantation survival to density, age, site index, and type and intensity of thinning  

Robert  L. Bailey

Bailey RL, Univ. Georgia, Sch Forest  Resources,Athens,GA 30602

 Bruce E. Borders 

US Forest Serv., SE Forest Expt Stn, Macon, GA

 Kenneth  D. Ware 

US Forest Serv.,SE Forest Expt Stn, Athens, GA

Earke P. Jones,Jr.  

US Forest Serv.,SE Forest Expt Stn, Athens, GA

 

Abstract

Change in numbers of surviving trees in repeatedly thinned old-field slash pine plantations was found to be significantly related to age, density, site index, and level and type of thinning. A difference equation model was derived and fitted with data from 824 growth periods from 289 manumented plots. This difference equation formulation is a logical extension of prior models to now express the effects of type and level of thinning, site index, and differential age effccts. It is also compatible with other models required in a useful and consistent growth and yield prediction system for thinned stands. Thinning from below in young stands tended to accelerate mortality; mortality rate was directly related to site index. These facts are accounted for by the model. Bailey, Borders 1985. For. Sci. 31(1) :180-189.

Additional key words

Pinus elliolfii, difference equation model, growth predicting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aboveground Weight and Volume of Unthinned, Planted Longleaf Pine on West Gulf Forest Sites.

V. Clark  Baldwin,

US Forest Serv, USDA, So Res Stn, 200 Weaver Blvd, Asheville, NC 28802 USA

Joseph R. Saucier

USDA,Forest Serv., Forestry Sci., SE Forest Expt Stn, Carlton St, Athens, GA 30602

Abstract

Volume( cubic foot) and weight predictions (green and dry) are presented in  equations and tables for aboveground total tree and tree components of unthinned, planted longleaf pine trees. The 111 sample trees, from 10 stands in Louisiana and Texas, were 10 to 44 years old and ranged from 1 to 21 inches dbh. The data for saplings(dbh<5 inches) were analyzed separately from that of commercial sized trees(dbh>5 inches).  The linearized allometric model utilizes the variable D^2H(squared diameter at breast height multiplied by total tree height) the predict volumes and weights of tree component in two size classes.  Baldwin, Saucier 1983. Research Paper SO-191. New Orleans, LA: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Forest Experiment Station. 25 p. 1983  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Estimation of total yield of Douglas-fir by means of incomplete growth series  

Jean Bégin

Univ Laval, Fac Foresterie & geomat, Quebec city G1K 7P4,PQ,Canada

Jean-Philippe Schütz

Eth Zentrum, Ecole Polytech Fed Zurich, CH-8092 Zurich, Swizerland

Summary 

This study establishes and validates a method that takes into account yield levels and permits the reconstruction and modelling of the evolution of total yield based on incomplete growth series. The calculation of total yield of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb) Franco var menziesii Franco) is carried out by integrating the equation of volume increment per metre dominant height growth. The model utilized explains 94.8% of the variation in volume increment per metre height growth of the 14 experimental plots. The evolution of total yield is calculated for 4 current increment levels. The concept of current increment levels is similar to the concept of yield levels, and corresponds to the value of volume increment per metre height growth, at a height of 30 m. At an equivalent yield level, the calculated total yield curves correspond closely to those calculated by Bergel (1 985). Begin,  Schutz 1994. Ann. Sci. Forest 51 (4): 345-355.

Key words

total yield , yield level , current increment level,  volume Increment, Douglas fir  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Improved estimates of site-index curves using a varying-parameter model  

Greg S. Biging 

Univ Calif. Berkley, Dept Forestry & Resource Management, Berkley, CA 94720,USA

Abstract

Current methods for developing site index curves from stem analysis data or from remeasured permanent plots commonly regress height on age (or age and site) using a nonlinear regression model fitted to the pooled observations. While this is a computationally efficient method, it does not satisfactorily account for between-tree differences in individual tree height growth. This paper presents a varying-parameter (linear random regression coefficient) model that is derived by fitting height growth models to each individual tree in the data set A weighted least squares technique is then employed to combine thex individual estimates to f O R Ma mean estimate of the parameters of a sigmoid height growth model. These parameters are then used to predict the height development of site trees. An example of the procedure is given using stem analysis data from primarily dominant trees in the young-growth mixed conifer forests of California. Biging 1985. For. Sci. 31:248-259.

Additional key words

Stem analysis data, sigmoid model, height growth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loblolly pine - pushing the limits of growth 

Bruce E. Borders 

Univ  Georgia, Sch Forest  Resources,Athens,GA 30602 USA

 Robert L. Bailey  

Univ Georgia, DB Warnell Sch Forest Resources, Athens, GA 30605 USA

Abstract

The age of intensive plantation forestry in the Southeastern US rapidly approaches. Based on data through age 9 from loblolly pine plantations subjected to complete weed control and multiple fertilizations, growth rates to be expected equal or exceed those for southern pines grown in other countries under intensive cultural practices. Predictions of continuing growth through age 15 and economical analyses indicate that these cultural practices will be excellent financial investments for the owners of forest land. Borders,  Bailey 1997. CAPPS: Consortium on Accelerated Pine Production Studies Technical Report, CAPPS 1997-1. The University of Georgia, Cooperative Extension Service, Forest Resources Publication.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A comparison of spot and landset-TM data for use in conducting inventories of forest resources

Brockhaus, J.A. 

N Carolina State Univ, Dept Forestry, Raleigh, NC 27695

Siamak Khorram

N Carolina State Univ, Ctr Comp Graph, Raleigh,NC 27695

Abstract

SPOT multispectral (XS) and Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) digital data were studied in an attempt to evaluate the use of this data in detailed assessments of forest conditions. Forest type, basal area, and age class information were collected from 256 sample sites within an intensively managed 80 000 acre experimental forest in North Carolina, U.S.A. A comparison of the SPOT and TM data with the sample site information showed that XS3, the near-infrared waveband, and TM bands 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7 were significantly correlated with basal area. Age class was not found to be significantly correlated with any of the three SPOT XS wavebands. TM bands 2, 3, 4,5, and 7 were, however, shown to be significantly correlated with age class. Although significant, the correlation coefficients between the TM or SPOT waveband data and basal area or age class were low (<0.65). Six forest cover types, and an additional water category, were selected as the basis of a land cover classification system for use with the TM and SPOT data. Verification of the classification of the seven cover types using the SPOT XS waveband data resulted in an estimated accuracy of 74.4 per cent. Classification accuracy was slightly reduced (70.8 per cent) when the TM wavebands corresponding to the SPOT XS bands were used as inputs to the classifier. When each of the six visible and reflective infrared TM wavebands were included in the classification process overall accuracy increased to 88.5 per cent. Bockhaus,  Khorrams 1992. S. Int J of Remote Sensing 13:3035-3043.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spatial distribution of biomass in forests of the eastern USA

Sandra L. Brown

US Environmental Protection Agency, National Health and Environmental Effects Laboratory,

Western Ecology Division, 200 SW 35th St, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA

Paul Schroeder

Dynamac Corp., 200 SW 35th St, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA

 Jeffrey S. Kern

Dynamac Corp., 200 SW 35th St, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA 


Abstract


We produced a map of the biomass density and pools, at the county scale of resolution, of all forests of the eastern US using new approaches for converting inventoried wood volume to estimates of above and belowground biomass. Maps provide a visual representation of the pattern of forest biomass densities and pools over space that are useful for forest managers and decision makers, and as databases for verification of vegetation models. We estimated biomass density and pools at the county level from the USDA Forest Service, Forest Inventory and Analysis database on growing stock volume by forest type and stand size-class, and mapped the results in a geographic information system. We converted stand volume to aboveground biomass with regression equations for biomass expansion factors (BEF; ratio of aboveground biomass density of all living trees to merchantable volume) versus stand volume. Belowground biomass was estimated as a function of aboveground biomass with regression equations. Total biomass density for hardwood forests ranged from 36 to 344 Mg ha(-1), with an area-weighted mean of 159 Mg ha(-1). About 50% of all counties had hardwood forests with biomass densities between 125 and 175 Mg ha(-1). For softwood forests, biomass density ranged from 2 to 346 Mg ha(-1), with an area-weighted mean of 110 Mg ha(-1). Biomass densities were generally lower for softwoods than for hardwoods; ca. 40% of all counties had softwood forests with biomass densities between 75 and 125 Mg ha(-1). Highest amounts of forest biomass were located in the Northern Lake states, mountain areas of the Mid-Atlantic states, and parts of New England, and lowest amounts in the Midwest states. The total biomass for all eastern forests for the late 1980s was estimated at 20.5 Pg, 80% of which was in hardwood forests. Brown, Schroeder 1999. For.  Ecol. Manage. 123 (1): 81-90.

Author Keywords
aboveground biomass, belowground biomass, biomass distribution, carbon cycle, disturbance, hardwood forests, softwood forests, USA

Key Words Plus
Model, Storage, Cycle 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A forestry application of Schnute's generalized growth function  

Brian V Bredenkamp

Saasveld Forestry Res Ctr, Private Bag X6515,George 6530,South  Africa

 Timothy G.  Gregoire  

Virginia Polytech Inst & State Uinv.,Sch  Forestry & Wildlife Resources, Blacksburg,VA 24061

 

Abstract

A case is presented where the Chapman-Richards growth function is suitable to describe growth for a certain period during the life of a stand of Eucalyptus grandis in South Africa. Toward the end of that period, diameter growth exhibited strong asymptotic properties. After marked competition mortality, the stand resumed growth beyond what had appeared to be an asymptotic level and the Chapman-Richards function could no longer be satisfactorily fitted. A generalized growth function developed by Schnute successfully tracked this renewed growth. The parametric relationships between the two models are established.  Bredenkamp, Gregoire 1988. For. Sci. 34(3):790-797.

Additional key words

Chapman-Richards growth function, Eucalyptus grandis, C.C.T., stand density effects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A method of constructing site index curves from measurements of tree age and height --- Its application to inland Douglas-fir

James E. Brickell

US Forest Service , No Reg, Timber Management Staff, Missoula, MT 59806SERV,NO

Abstract

This paper describes a method of constructing site index curves from one-time measurements of age and height of trees in the dominant stand. Site index curves for Engelmann spruce (Picea - engelmannii Parry) have already been constructed using this method (1): In this paper curves are constructed for inland Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca (Mirb.) France) to illustrate how to use the method. This method has the advantage of being applicable to the kind of site tree data usually taken in the course of forest inventories. Moreover, the disadvantages of these data are compensated fzr to some degree by the fact that the resulting site index curves will usually be used with the same kind of data, containing the same hidden effects of past damage. The method is a generalization of the Osborne-Schumacher method (10), which assumes equal representation of a particular site quality in all age classes. The generalization does not require residuals about the mean curve of height over age to be normally distributed. A disadvantage of the method proposed i n this paper is that it requires a relatively large number of sample trees--at least 1,500 paired measurements of age and height should be available.  Brickell 1968. Res. Pap. Int-47, USDA For. Serv. 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aboveground biomass distribution of US eastern hardwood forests and the use of large trees as an indicator of forest development

Sandra Brown 

US EPA, Natl Hlth & Environm Effects Res Lab,Western Ecol Div, Dynam Corp., 200 SW 35th  St, Corvallis,OR 97333
 Paul Schroeder 

Dynamac Corporation, US Environmental Protection Agency, National Health and Environmental Effects Research  Laboratory, Western Ecology Division, 200 SW 35th St. Corvallis, OR 97333,USA

Richard Birdsey

  USDA Forest Service, Northeast Forest Experiment Station, 100 Matsonford Rd, Radnor, PA 19087, USA

Abstract

Past clearing and harvesting of the deciduous hardwood forests of eastern USA released large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, but through recovery and regrowth these forests are now accumulating atmospheric carbon (C). This study examined quantities and distribution of aboveground biomass density (AGBD, M-g ha(-1)) of US eastern hardwood forests and assessed their biological potential for continued biomass accumulation in the future. Studies have shown that the presence of a large proportion of the AGBD of moist tropical forests in large diameter trees (> 70 cm diameter) is indicative of mature and undisturbed conditions. This relationship was tested as a criterion for the eastern US deciduous forests to assess their stage of recovery and maturity, and evaluate their potential for continued C storage. The approach was to compare AGBD and its distribution in large trees for old-growth forests derived from published studies and for oak-hickory and maple-beech-birch forests using the extensive US Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) data base. Old-growth forests generally had AGBD of 220-260 Mg ha(-1) with up to 30% in trees with diameter > 70 cm. In contrast, maximum AGBD for the FIA units was about 175-185 Mg ha(-1) with 8%-10% in large trees. Most units, however, were below these maximum values, suggesting that the forests represented by the FIA inventory are in various stages of recovery from past disturbance. Biologically, therefore, they have the potential to accumulate significant quantities of additional biomass, if left unharvested, and thus storing atmospheric C into the future. Brown, Schroeder  et al. 1997. Forest  Ecol.  Manage. 96 (1-2): 37-47

 

Author Keywords
aboveground biomass density, biomass distribution, carbon cycle, disturbance, hardwood forests, large trees, old-growth, USA

Key Words Plus
Patterns

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consistent height growth and growth rate estimates for remeasured plots  

David Bruce   

Pacific NW Forest & Range  Expt. Stn., Portland,OR 97232,USA

Abstract

Consistent height-growth and growth-rate estimates were made far use in a managed stand growth simulator based on data from remeasured Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) plots in the Pacific Northwest. Techniques were developed for simultaneous fitting of height-growth and growth-rate curves, overcoming inconsistent estimates of age of 4.5-ft-tall trees, iterative estimating of Site producing polymorphic curves, introducing site factors and treatment effects, and overcoming minor problems encountered during the analysis. The equations produced agree well with those developed by King in 1966 for Douglas-fir in the same area, using different data and different procedures. This suggests the two equations are goad representations of regional height-growth relations. Bruce 1981. For. Sci.27:711:725.

Additional key words 

Douglas-fir, site index, growth analysis.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Site Index Equations For Radiata Pine In New-Zealand.

Harold E. Burkhart

Virginia Polytech Inst & State Univ, Dept Forestry, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA

Tennant R.B.

Forest Res Inst, Mensurat Sect, Rotorua,New Zealand

Abstract

Site index (height of the dominant stand at some specified reference age) is a practical and commonly used method for quantifying site quality in pure even-aged stands. Permanent plot records from radiata pine (Pinus radiata D. Don) stands were used to compute site index equations. The data were divided into groups that might exhibit different heigh-growth patterns, and separate coefficient estimates were computed for each group. Coefficients for the 8 groups finally selected are presented, and limitations in the application of the equations are discussed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spatial structure of coastal pelagic schools descriptors in the Mediterranean Sea


Tarub Bahri, Pierre Freon

 IRD, HEA, BP 5045, F-34032 Montpellier Cedex 1, France

 


Abstract
Biomass estimates during acoustic surveys rely mostly on fish accessibility which in turn depends on the spatial distribution and structure of schools. In this paper, we first investigate the spatial behavior of schools through some of their descriptors in order to assess the interest of a study on the influence of environmental factors on this behavior. Morphological, energetic and positioning descriptors of schools were measured in the Catalan and Adriatic Seas during four acoustic surveys. The spatial structure of the descriptors was studied using geostatistical methods. The variograms were calculated on the averaged school descriptors within a sampling distance of 1 nautical mile (elementary sampling distance unit). Globally, most of the variograms are structured, depending on the type of descriptor and on the cruise. The results are discussed according to the topography of the two studied regions, the temporal variability existing in the data, the dominant species in the area and the possible biases due to the acoustic device used. Bahri and  Freon 2000. Fish. Res. 48: 157-166.

Author Keywords
pelagic fish schools, schooling behaviour, spatial structure, variogram, acoustics

Keywords Plus
fish schools, anchovy, shape

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effects of thinning on structural development in 40- to 100-year-old Douglas-fir stands in western Oregon
John D. Bailey

No Arizona Univ, Sch Forestry, Flagstaff, AZ 86011 USA

John C. Tappeiner

Oregon State Univ, Dept Forest Sci, Corvallis, OR 97331 USA

 

 


Abstract
We studied the composition and structure of the understory in thinned and unthinned Douglas-fir/western hemlock stands on 32 sites in western Oregon. These stands had regenerated naturally after timber was harvested between 1880 and 1940; they were thinned between 1969 and 1984. Commercially thinned stands had 8-60% of their volume removed 10-24 years before the study. Undisturbed old-growth Douglas-fir stands were present for comparison on 20 of these paired sites. Conifer regeneration density and frequency were consistently greater in thinned than unthinned stands. For example, average seedling density in thinned stands (1433/ha) was significantly (p less than or equal to 0.001) greater than in unthinned stands (233/ha), but very similar to that in old-growth stands (1010/ha). Seedling density and frequency were strongly related to the volume removed and to stand density index (and other measures of overstory density) just after thinning. In thinned stands, the density of small trees (intermediate crown class overstory trees and advanced regeneration) was 159/ha, significantly (p less than or equal to 0.001) greater than in unthinned stands (90/ha), but not significantly different from that of old-growth (204/ha). The live crown ratio of these trees in thinned stands (66%) was greater than in unthinned (44%) and old-growth (48%) stands. Cover and stem density of shrubs was variable in all three stand types. There was significantly less tall shrub cover in unthinned stands than in either thinned or old-growth stands, which did not differ. Thinned stands had the most low shrub cover. Salal and bracken fern cover was greater in thinned stands than in the other stand types, but there was no difference in sword fern and Oregongrape cover. Leaf area index in thinned stands (6.6) was not significantly different from that in unthinned (6.8) and old-growth stands (7.1); however, there was more leaf area in shrubs in the thinned stands. Thinning young Douglas-fir stands will hasten the development of multistory stands by recruitment of conifer regeneration in the understory as well as by enabling the survival of small overstory trees and growth of advanced understory regeneration. Thinning will also help develop the shrub layer by increasing tall shrub stem density and cover of some low shrubs.  Bailey and Tappeiner For. Ecol. Manage. 108: 99-113.

Author Keywords
stand structure, old-growth, stand density, understory vegetation

Keywords Plus
picea-tsuga forests, old-growth forests, gaultheria-shallon, coast range, vine maple, vegetation, plantations, populations, salmonberry, seedlings

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Understory vegetation in old and young Douglas-fir forests of western Oregon


John D. Bailey

USGS Biological Resources Division, Forest & Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA 

Cheryl Mayrsohn

USDI Bureau of Land Management, Eugene District Office, 2890 Chad Drive, Eugene, OR 97440, USA 

Paul S. Doescher

Department of Rangeland Resources, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA 

Elizabeth St Pierre

Department of Rangeland Resources, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA 

John C. Tappeiner

Department of Forest Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA 


Abstract
We studied understory composition in thinned and unthinned Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco)/western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla (Raf.) Sarg.) stands on 28 sites in western Oregon. These stands had regenerated naturally after timber harvest, 40-70 years before thinning. Commercial thinning had occurred 10-24 years previously, with 8-60% of the volume removed from below with the intent to homogenize spacing among trees. Undisturbed old-growth Douglas-fir stands were present for comparison on 18 of these sites. Total herbaceous cover was greater in thinned (25% cover) stands than in unthinned (13% cover) or old-growth (15% cover) stands. Species richness was also greater in thinned (137) than in unthinned (114) and old-growth (91) stands (P=0.05). Part of the increased richness was caused by the presence of exotic species in thinned stands, but there were also more native grass and nitrogen-fixing species in thinned stands than in unthinned or old-growth stands. Groups of species differed among stand-types. For example, the frequency of tall cordate-leaved species was greater in old-growth stands (P = 0.009), but their relative cover was different only between old-growth and unthinned stands (P = 0.08). Both the cover and frequency of grasses and sedges in thinned stands were greater than in unthinned or old-growth stands (P less than or equal to 0.002), Ordination of shrub cover showed differences among old-growth and unthinned stands compared to thinned stands, mainly because of the amount of Gaultheria shallon Pursh and Polystichum munitum (Kaulf.) Presl in heavily thinned stands. Ordination of herbaceous community data showed that there were much stronger differences among sites than among stand-types. The lack of difference among stand-types demonstrates the resiliency of herbaceous communities to disturbance associated with past and current forest management. Bailey,Mayrsohn  et al. 1998. For. Ecol. Manage. 112: 289-302.

Author Keywords
thinning, shrubs, herbaceous cover, exotic, old-growth, species richness, ordination

KeyWords Plus
salal gaultheria-shallon, species composition, biomass, succession, diversity, stands, cover, age

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

   

   

 

 

 

 

Quantifying diameter distributions with the Weibull function

 

Robert L. Bailey, T. R. Dell

Southern Forest Experiment Station, USDA Forest service, New Orleans, LA

 

Abstract

The Weibull probability density function is proposed as a diameter distribution model. Its advantages include flexibility in shape and simplicity of mathematical derivations. Estimation and interpretation of parameters are discussed and illustrated with published data.  Bailey and Dell 1973. For. Sci. 19: 97-101.

Additional Key words

Exponential distribution, maximum likelihood, percentiles, point individual distance, simulation.

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Site index equations for site-prepared loblolly pine plantations in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain of Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina

 

David E. Adams, Robert L. Bailey

School of Forest Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA, 30602

 

Abstract

Data from 269 plots were used to fit height and site index prediction equations for site-prepared loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) plantations in the piedmont and upper coastal plain of Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina. Height growth patterns were compared with those of non-pocosin lower coastal plain loblolly pine plantations. No Significant difference was found and a combined model was fit (490 plots total). A splined model is presented which constrains height to be zero at age zero. Adams and  Bailey 1989. Can. J. For. Res. 1-36.

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Site evaluation for commercially important southern hardwoods

 

James B. Baker

Forest Science Laboratory, Monticello, AR

W. M, Broadfoot

Southern Hardwoods Laboratory, Southern Forest Experiment Station, USDA Forest service , in cooperation with the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station and the Southern Hardwood Forest Research Group, Stoneville, Miss.

Abstract

This paper provides a method of site evaluation for cottonwood, green ash, hackberry, sugarberry, pecan, sweetgum, sycamore, yellow-poplar, and cherrybark, Nuttall, shumard, swamp chestnut, water and willow oaks. The  method incorporates an evaluation of the physical, moisture, nutrient, and aeration properties of a soil into a site quality rating. Field tests have demonstrated the accuracy of the technique. The site evaluation technique also provides a basis for possible soil improvement treatments for the 14 hardwood species and estimates of potential productivity for cottonwood, sweetgum, and sycamore plantations. Baker and Broadfoot 1979. USDA For. Serv. Gen. Tech. Rep. SO-26. 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

A quantitative technique for the identification of canopy stratification in tropical and temperate forests


Patrick J. Baker

College of Forest Resources, Box 352100, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA

 

Jeremy S. Wilson

USDA Forest Service, PNW Research Station, College of Forest Resources, Box 352100, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA

 

 

Abstract
Canopy stratification is one of the oldest concepts in tropical forest ecology. However, there has been considerable debate over the existence and identification of strata. Much of the confusion arises from the differing definitions of strata (i.e. vertical stratification of phytomass, individual crowns, or species) and the methods used to evaluate them (e.g. profile diagrams). In this paper, a quantitative technique for identifying stratification of individual tree crowns in the forest canopy is presented. Strata are identified by comparing sorted tree heights to a moving average of height at the base of the live crown. Height and crown measurements were obtained from 21 published profile diagrams of forests, representing many biogeographic regions and covering a wide variety of forest types. The technique provides an objective measure of canopy strata allowing for a valid comparison of stratification between the different profile diagrams. Neither the original author's estimates of strata nor the number of strata detected by the quantitative technique support the premise that tropical forests have more strata than temperate forests. With the sole exception of a mono-layered European Douglas-fir plantation, all forests in this study had two or three layers. Baker and Wilson 2000. For. Ecol. Manage. 127: 77-86.

Author Keywords
crown stratification, canopy layers, tree crowns, temperate forests, tropical forests, profile diagrams, algorithm

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flexibility in forest management: managing uncertainty in Douglas-fir forests of the Pacific Northwest


Patrick J. Baker

USDA Forest Service, PNW Research Station, 562 King's Highway, Hancock, NH 03449, USA

 

Jeremy S. Wilson

College of Forest Resources, Box 352100, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA



Abstract
Long planning horizons generate substantial uncertainty in forest management, making management flexibility, the ability to choose between multiple options or opportunities, a desirable attribute of managed forests. Flexibility in forest management reflects both the relative rigidity of intervention requirements and the potential range of development pathways for a stand. The wind stability of Pacific Northwest Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] France) plantations is used to demonstrate the concept of management flexibility Dense Douglazs-fir plantations develop high height to diameter ratios (H/D same units) in the dominant trees making them unstable and prone to wind damage. The management of these plantations is inflexible, because without early and timely thinning, the stands do not contain stable trees that could be expected to survive long rotations or late thinnings. A combination of reduced planting densities and site-specific management reduces both the necessity and rigidity of intervention requirements (e.g., thinning) and expands the number of potential developmental pathways for these stands. The cost of greater management flexibility is reduced efficiency of wood volume production: however, greater adaptability to changing markets, labor conditions, and management objectives may be more important for many forest owners. While this approach to management is complex, it frees owners and managers from rigid management requirements and allows for a wider range of future stand conditions. Baker and Wilson 2001. For. Ecol. Manage. 145: 219-227.

Author Keywords
management flexibility, Douglas-fir, wind stability, management objectives

KeyWords Plus
windthrow

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Linking growth and yield and process models to estimate impact of environmental changes on growth of loblolly pine


V. Clark Baldwin, Jr.

US Forest Serv, USDA, So Res Stn, 200 Weaver Blvd, Asheville, NC 28802 USA
Harold E. Burkhart, James A. Westfall

Virginia Polytech Inst & State Univ, Dept Forestry, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA

Kelly D. Peterson

US Forest Serv, USDA, So Res Stn, Pineville, LA 71360 USA

 

 

 


Abstract
PTAEDA2 is a distance-dependent, individual tree model that simulates the growth and yield of a plantation of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L,) on an annual basis. The MAESTRO model utilizes an array of trees in a stand to calculate and integrate the effects of biological and physical variables on the photosynthesis and respiration processes of a target tree on an hourly basis. PTAEDA2 sums the quantities for individual trees to obtain stand results; MAESTRO computes values for one tree at a time. These models were linked to provide a tool for further understanding stand, climatic, and edaphic effects on tree and forest productivity. PTAEDA2 predicts the characteristics of trees grown at a given stand density, on a given site, for a given length of time. These characteristics (outputs) are then used as direct inputs into MAESTRO which assesses the expected impact of environmental changes on tree function, The results from MAESTRO are fed back into PTAEDA2 to update future predictions by modifying the site index driver variable of the growth and yield model. An equation that predicts changes in site index as a function of net photosynthesis, age, and trees per unit area is the backbone of the dynamic linkage, The model changes required to link PTAEDA2 to MAESTRO were developed and reported earlier. This article reviews the earlier work and reports research results quantifying the relationships between net photosynthesis and the PTAEDA2 growth predictors, thus providing the basis for the MAESTRO to PTAEDA2 feedback process and integration of these two models. Baldwin, Jr., Burkhart et al. 2001. For. Sci. 47: 77-82.

Author Keywords
Pinus taeda, climate change, forests

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The effects of spacing and thinning on stand and tree characteristics of 38-year-old Loblolly Pine


V. Clark Baldwin, Jr.

US Forest Serv, USDA, So Res Stn, POB 2680, Asheville, NC 28802 USA

Kelly D. Peterson

US Forest Serv, USDA, So Res Stn, Asheville, NC 28802 USA

Alexander Clark III

US Forest Serv, USDA, So Res Stn, Pineville, LA 71360 USA
 Robert B. Ferguson

US Forest Serv, USDA, So Res Stn, Athens, GA 30602 USA
Mike R. Strub, David R. Bower

Weyerhaeuser Co, Hot Springs, AR 71802 USA


Abstract
The effects of early and continuous density control on the characteristics of mature loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) were measured at age 38 and analyzed. Trees in plots planted at spacings of 1.8x1.8, 2.4x2.4, 2.7x2.7, 3.0x3.0, and 3.7x3.7 m were either left unthinned or thinned every 5 years beginning at age 18, to residual basal areas of 27.5, 23.0, 18.4, and 13.8 m(2) ha(-1). Toes thinned from plot buffer zones at age 38 were selected to represent a final harvest cross-section of each treatment for evaluation of hole form, component biomass, and crown architecture. Volume and biomass of cut trees from all thinnings were included with the age 38 data fur stand level yield comparisons. Results show thinning effects were generally more pronounced than spacing effects. Trees of the same diameter at breast height and total height from heavily thinned stands had more cylindrical lower boles, more upper stem taper, longer crowns with more and larger branches, more total foliage, and hence more biomass than trees from unthinned or lightly thinned stands. All levels of thinning increased the yield of the stand in terms of foliage and branch biomass, while only light or moderate thinning increased bole biomass and volume yields. The magnitude of these differences are presented. Baldwin, Jr. , Peterson et al. 2000. For. Ecol. Manage. 137: 91-102.

Author Keywords
Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.), spacing, thinning, taper, volume, biomass, branches, foliage, crown architecture

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Modeling forest timber productivity in the South: Where are we today?

 

V. Clark Baldwin, Jr.

USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station, Pineville, LA 71360 

Quang V. Cao

School of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803,

 

Abstract

The current southern species growth and yield prediction capability, new techniques utilized, and modeling trends over the last 17 years, were examined. Changing forest management objectives that emphasize more non-timber resources may have contributed to the continuing general lack of emphasis in modeling the timber productivity of the South’s largest forest types-mixed pines and mixed pine-hardwood stands. Less than 10 percent of the literature during the period of this review pertained to growth and yield predictions of that resource. On the other hand, 45 percent of the literature centered on predicting the productivity of loblolly pine, almost all in plantations. Clearly the modeling emphasis has been, and continues to be, on the results of intensive management of the South’s commercially valuable species, although some notable work has been done for other species and other forest types. Several new procedures have been developed for projecting tree and stand growth using whole stand, diameter distribution, and individual tree modeling approaches. New distribution-free and stand table projection techniques have also been presented. Basic information on the available complete growth and yield prediction systems produced for southern species during this review period is presented and summarized. Baldwin, Jr. and Cao 1999. Paper presented at the tenth Biennial Souther Silvicultural Research Conference, Shreveport, LA, February 16-18,1999.

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loblolly Pine Growth and Yield Prediction for Managed West Gulf Plantations

 

V. C. Baldwin, Jr.

Southern Forest Experiment Station, USDA-Forest Service, 2500 Shreveport Highway, Pineville, LA 71360

D. P. Feduccia

Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, Alexander State Forest, P.0. Box 298, Woodworth, LA 71485.

 

Summary

A growth and yield prediction system is presented for use in thinned or unthinned loblolly pine plantations in the west gulf region. The equations predict cubic- and board-foot volume, green-weight, and dry-weight yields per unit area of wood only or wood with bark of entire tree boles, boles to any top diameter limit, and branches. Green and dry weight of foliage can also be predicted. Total stand yields for weight or volume are partitioned into l-inch diameter classes to forecast stand and stock tables for all aboveground tree components for any stage of plantation development from ages 10 through 45. The data for this system of equations came from 859 measurements of thinned and unthinned long-term research study plots on cutover sites located in east Texas, Louisiana, and southern Mississippi. A computer program COMPUTEP-LOB (Comprehensive Outlook for Managed Pines Using simulated Treatment Experiments-Planted Loblolly Pine) that produces the yield tables can be obtained from the authors.  Baldwin, Jr. and Feduccia 1987. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. SO-236.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aboveground Weight and Volume of Unthinned, Planted Longleaf Pine on West Gulf Forest Sites

V. Clark  Baldwin  

US Forest Serv., USDA, So Res. Stn., 200 Weaver Blvd, Asheville, NC 28802 USA

Joseph R. Saucier

USDA,Forest Serv., Forestry Sci., SE Forest Expt Stn, Carlton St, Athens, GA 30602

Abstract

Volume( cubic foot) and weight predictions (green and dry) are presented in  equations and tables for aboveground total tree and tree components of unthinned, planted longleaf pine trees. The 111 sample trees, from 10 stands in Louisiana and Texas, were 10 to 44 years old and ranged from 1 to 21 inches dbh. The data for samplings (dbh<5 inches) were analyzed separately from that of commercial sized trees (dbh>5 inches).  The linearized allometric model utilizes the variable D^2H(squared diameter at breast height multiplied by total tree height) the predict volumes and weights of tree component in two size classes.  Baldwin, Saucier 1983. Research Paper SO-191. New Orleans, LA: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Forest Experiment Station. 25 p. 1983  

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Validation of the unthinned loblolly pine plantation yield model USLY-COWG

 

V. C. Baldwin, Jr.

Southern Forest Experiment Station, USDA-Forest Service, 2500 Shreveport Highway, Pineville, LA 71360

D. P. Feduccia

Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, Alexander State Forest, P.0. Box 298, Woodworth, LA 71485.

Abstract

Stand structure predictions from an unthinned loblolly pine plantation yield prediction system (USLYCOWG computer program) were compared with observations from 80 unthinned loblolly pine plots. Overall, the predicted estimates were reasonable when compared to observed values, but predictions based on input data at or near the system's limits may be in error by as much as 14 percent. Correlations between observed and predicted values for the variables selected ranged from 0.72 to 0.96. Baldwin, Jr. and Feduccia 1982. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. SO-283.

Key words

taeda, validation, volume prediction, unthinned plantation yields

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

Influence of stand density on log quality of lodgepole pine

 

Louis A. Ballard,  James N. Long

Department of Forest Resources, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-5215. U.S.A.

   

Abstract

We examined the relationship between stand density and stem quality characteristics for lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta). The influence of initial stand density on end of rotation log quality was inferred by analyzing data from unmanaged, rotation-age stands. Quality characteristics examined included first log branch diameters, taper, wood density, and the proportion of sapwood. After differences in diameter at breast height were accounted for, only branch size was strongly influenced by stand density. A strong negative exponential relationship was found between the mean of the five largest branches per first log and number of trees per hectare. Ballard and Long 1988. Can. J. For. Res. 18: 911-916.

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Use of pretreatment increment data in evaluating tree growth response to fertilization

 

T. M. Ballard, N. Majid

Department of Soil Science and Faculty of Forestry, University of Brithish Columbia. Vancouver. B.C. Canada V6T IW5

Abstract

The use of pretreatment increment can lead to improved estimates of individual and average tree growth response to fertilization, by helping to adjust for site as well as stand structure differences between fertilized and control areas. It has applications in research using either single-tree or plot fertilization,  and also in estimating responses to operational fertilization. Particularly useful equations are R =Af –(Bf)av(Au/Bu) and t = av(Af/Bf)-av(Au/Bu where R is an estimate of the absolute magnitude of individual tree growth response to fertilization: A and B are increment after and before fertilization. And f and u denote fertilized and unfertilized trees respectively; av signifies the average of several replicates; and t is an index of whether response has occurred. Equations were evaluated by examining branch length increment data from foliar spray application of iron and copper to Pinus contorta Dougl. (lodgepole pine) and of nitrogen and iron to Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco (Douglas-fir).   Ballard and Majid 1985. Can. J. For. Res. 15: 18-22.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Log and lumber grades as indicators of wood quality in 20- to 100- year-old Douglas-fir trees from thinned and unthinned stands  

R. James Barbour, Dean L. Parry

Forestry Sciences Laboratory, P.O. Box 3890, Portland, OR 97208.

Abstract

This report examines the differences in wood characteristics found in coastal Pacific Northwest Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga mensziesii (Mirb.) Franco) trees harvested at the age of 70 to 100 years old to wood characteristics of trees harvested at the age of 40 to 60 years. Comparisons of differences in domestic log grades suggest that the proportion of log volume in the higher grades (Special Mill and No. 2 Sawmill) increased with both stand age and tree size. Simulation of lumber grade yields based on log characteristics suggests that yields of higher grades of lumber increased until about age 60 to 70, and then leveled off over the rest of the age range examined in this analysis. We included structural lumber products in the analysis but not higher value appearance grade products, and some evidence suggests that yields of these products might have begun to increase in the oldest trees. The analysis also showed that the younger trees had larger branches and more juvenile wood, possibly because they had been grown in stands that received a higher level of early stand management than the older trees. If these young trees were grown to the ages of 70 to 100, they likely would not produce the same log and lumber grade yields found in the older trees we examined. Barbour and Parry 2001. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. PNW-GTR-510. 

 

Keywords

Wood quality, log grade, lumber grade, thinning, Douglas-fir, Pseudotsuga mensziesii, ecosystem management, sustainable forestry.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Simulated stand characteristics and wood product yields from Douglas-fir plantations managed for ecosystem objectives


R. James Barbour

Us Forest Serv, Pacific NW Res Stn, USDA, P.O.Box 3890,Portland,OR 97208

Stuart Johnston

Us Forest Serv, Siuslaw Natl Forest USDA, P.O. Box 67,Mapleton, Or 97453

John P. Hayes

Oregon State Univ, Dept Forest Sci, Coastal Oregon Product Enhancement Program, Corvallis, Or 97331
 Gabriel F. Tucker

Oregon State Univ, Dept Forest Sci, Cascade Ctr Ecosyst Management Corvallis,OR 97331

 

 


Abstract
Hundreds of thousands of hectares of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco) plantations in coastal forests in the U.S. Pacific Northwest were established over the past 40 years. Density management regimes designed to increase structural and compositional diversity in these plantations are being tested and implemented on an operational scale, These regimes are designed to promote various tree and stand characteristics, such as trees with large limbs, stands with multi-layered canopies, and dense unthinned patches, Changes in management policy associated with these types of regimes raise questions about the potential to manage for both ecosystem values and timber production. We used state-of-the-art models to simulate stand growth and wood product yields under several silvicultural prescriptions. The results indicated that timing and intensity of early thinnings are critical in determining both stand structure and wood quality. We concluded that it should be possible to manage Douglas-fir plantations to provide a high degree of structural diversity and wood products with quality similar to that grown in many industrial plantations. Barbour, Johnston et al. 1997. For. Ecol. Manage. 91: 205-219.

Author Keywords
ecosystem management, wildlife, habitat, silviculture, wood properties, wood products, timber production

KeyWords Plus
western Oregon, forests, snags, birds

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessing bias from boles in calculating leaf area index in immature Douglas-fir with the LI-COR canopy analyzer


Barclay HJ, Trofymow JA, Leach RI

Pacific Forestry Centre, 506 West Burnside Road, Victoria, BC, Canada, V8Z 1M5



Abstract
Measurements of leaf area index (LAI) taken with photometers such as the LAI2000 are biased by boles and branches which stop part of the light from reaching the photometer. We estimated how much of the sky would be obscured by boles in an immature stand of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb) France) that was stem-mapped and of known diameter, height and height-to-live-crown. These yielded gap fractions which were then converted to bole area index (BAI) via the algorithm used by the LAI2000. The mean BAI, as a fraction of the effective leaf area index (LAIe) calculated by the LAI2000, ranged from <0.01 for Douglas-fir at 24 years of age to about 0.1 at 48 years. Comparing readings on Douglas-fir trees defoliated by root rot with readings on fully foliated trees yielded a proportion of 0.41, which included branches. Measurements were also taken on clumps of maple (Acer macrophyllum Pursh) and alder (Alnus rubra Bong.) both before and after leaf-fall, yielding corresponding proportions, including branches, of 0.41 and 0.25, respectively. The values obtained this way are probably upper limits. The contributions of boles may be appreciable, particularly in mature unthinnned stands with closed canopies. Barclay, Trofymow et al. 2000. Agri. For. Meteorology. 100: 255-260.

Author Keywords
leaf area index, LAI-2000, Douglas-fir

KeyWords Plus
stands

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A soft optimization approach to forest land management planning

B. Bruce Bare

College o f Forest Resources and Center for Quantitative Science in Forestry, Fisheries, and Wildlife,

University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, U.S.A.

Guillermo A. Mendoza

Department of Forestry, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, U.S.A.

 

Abstract

Forest land management planning provides a rich environment for the use of optimization techniques that incorporate multiple criteria and operate within a soft optimization decision environment. Using de novo programming, several approaches for examining planning problems are described where the objective is not simply to optimize a given system, but to design an optimal system. Both single and multiple objective linear programming models are used to illustrate this new approach and several illustrative examples are discussed. Bare and Mendoza 1988. Can. J. For. Res. 18: 545-552.

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

Using a direct search algorithm to optimize species composition in uneven-aged forest stands

 

B. Bruce Bare, Daniel Opalach

College of Forest Resources and Center for Quantitative Science in Forestry, Fisheries and Wildlife, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA

Abstract

Describes an approach for determining the optimal sustainable equilibrium diameter distribution and species composition for uneven-aged forest stands. A direct search, derivative free, constrained nonlinear programming algorithm is applied to a deterministic version of the Stand Prognosis Model. The diameter distribution for each species is described by a two-parameter Weibull distribution and number of trees per acre.  The optimization problem is formulated in terms of these three decision variables per species. Results are presented for both board and cubic foot growth objective functions, and the species composition is allowed to consist of one to three species. Few of the optimal solutions produce balanced diameter distributions, although all are sustainable over the cutting cycle. Solutions involving a mixture of the three permissible species produce more volume growth than do either the one or two species alternatives. Bare and Opalach 1987. IUFRO For. Growth Modelling and Prediction Conference, Minneapolis MN, August 24-25 1987.

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Purdue's forest management game

 

B. Bruce Bare

College of Forest Resources and Center for Quantitative Science in Forestry, Fisheries and Wildlife, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA

 

Abstract

Systems analysis is very effective in determining the the overall effect of biological and financial decisions on a total forest management system. The pedagogic use of a competitive simulation model enable students to forest management to visualize the operational problems of the forest manager from the total systems point of view. Students were receptive to and enjoyed the game. Believed that the game provided them with experience in making decision within a management-oriented environment, and felt that the game environment provided an opportunity to visualize interrelations between the biological and financial components of a forest management system. Bare 1970. J. For. 68: 554-557.

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

   

 

 

 

 

Growth of Ponderosa Pine poles thinned to different stocking levels in Central Oregon

James W. Barrett

USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Forest and Range Experiment Station, Portland, OR

 

Abstract

This paper resents 15-year results of one installation of a west-wide study of growing-stock levels in even-aged ponderosa pine. Growth was related to growing-stock level in a 65-year-old pole stand on an above average site, Periodic growth is presented for 10 years after the initial thinning and for 5 years after a second thinning to six assigned growing-stock levels. Annual growth in diameter during the 5 years after initial thinning ranged from an average of about 0.28 inch at the lowest growing-stock level to 0.10 at the highest. These rates increased slightly during the following decade, but differences between growing-stock levels remained about the same. These growth relations resulted in much larger trees at the lower growing-stock levels 15years after the initial thinning. Barrett 1983. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. PNW-311.

 

Keywords

Growing stock, increment/yield, thinning effects, even-aged stands, improvement cutting, stand density, ponderosa pine, pinus ponderosa

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Height growth and site index curves for managed, even-aged stands of Ponderosa Pine in the Pacific Northwest

 

James W. Barrett

USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Forest and Range Experiment Station, Portland, OR

 

Abstract

This paper presents height growth and site index curves and equations for even-aged, managed stands of ponderosa pine east of the Cascade Range in Oregon and Washington where height growth has not been suppressed by high density or related factors. Barrett 1978. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. PNW-232. 14p.

 

Keywords

Increment (height), site index) stand height/age, measurement systems, stem analysis, ponderosa pine, Pinus ponderosa, Oregon (Eastern), Washington (Eastern).

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

A growth model for mixed forest stands


Bartelink HH

Univ. Wageningen & Res. Ctr., Sect Forestry, Dept. Environm. Sci., POB 342, NL-6700 AA Wageningen, Netherlands

 

Abstract
The area of mixed forest stands in western Europe has significantly increased during recent decades and is still increasing today. Tools are needed to support the forest management decision taking in these mixed forests. However, though pure stands have been modelled extensively and rather successfully for decades, relatively few models for mixed-species stands have been developed. In this study, a mechanistic tree-based model of mixed forest growth is presented and applied. The aims of the study were (1) to present the modelling concept, (2) to compare growth and yield of mixed stands and monospecies stands, and (3) to demonstrate potential model application by simulating effects of management on mixed Douglas-fir/beech stands. The effects of stand composition and management on mixed stand productivity were investigated by simulating a replacement series. Simulation results showed that in general the yield of the mixture was somewhere in between the yield levels of the two monocultures. In stands with a low proportion of basal area of Douglas-fir, the productivity of Douglas-fir was lower than could be expected from its basal area share in the mixture; in stands with more than 40% of Douglas-fir, the opposite was the case. The productivity of beech in stands with few Douglas-fir was generally higher than expected from its proportion of basal area in the mixture, but much lower in mixtures with a higher Douglas-fir proportion. Thinning had a strong impact on productivity of the mixed stands. Yield of the mixtures was not linearly related to the basal area fraction of Douglas-fir present at the start of the simulations; simply combining monospecific yield tables will thus result in biased estimates of the yield of a mixed stand. Bartelink 2000. For. Ecol. Manage. 134: 29-43.

Author Keywords
beech, competition, Douglas-fir, radiation, simulation, thinning

KeyWords Plus
douglas-fir stands, allometric relationships, root density, needle area, radiation, biomass, trees, beech

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Radiation interception by forest trees: a simulation study on effects of stand density and foliage clustering on absorption and transmission


Bartelink HH

Agr Univ Wageningen, Dept Environm Sci, Sect Forestry, POB 342, NL-6700 AH Wageningen, Netherlands

 

Abstract
As part of a study on growth of mixed-species forest stands, a spatial model has been developed that simulates the absorption of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) by individual trees and the transmission through the forest canopy. Model  performance was tested by comparing simulated transmissions with field measurements. The model was applied to analyze the role of crown characteristics on radiation transmission and on absorption (APAR) by individual trees, and to analyze the effects of stand density and foliage clustering on transmission. Simulated transmission patterns appeared largely comparable with field measurements. Discrepancies between field measurements and model estimates could be attributed to interception by stems and (dead) branches: which were not part of the model. Analysis of absorption by trees showed that APAR was closely related to tree leaf area in closed canopy stands, but that in the open stand the relationship was less clear. This indicates that in open stands spatial information on tree position and crown dimensions will strongly affect absorption by individual trees. Uncertainties in leaf area estimates, due to variability in allometric relationships, had only small effects on APAR of the trees. Analysis of the role of stand density on the extinction-coefficient (K) showed that model estimates of K were clearly lower than values calculated with the Lambert-Beer theory: simulated K increased with increasing LAI, varying between 0.17 and 0.33 in case of Douglas fir and 0.30-0.63 for Beech. The degree of clustering decreased with LAI, amounting to a multiplier of 2.2-4.2 and 1.1-2.4 for Douglas fir and Beech, respectively. The model was considered a suitable tool in simulating growth and development of heterogeneous forests like mixed-species stands, because it enables to account for the growing conditions of individual trees in the forest canopy. Bartelik 1998. Ecol. Model. 105: 213-225.

 

Author Keywords
light, spatial model, extinction-coefficient, Douglas fir, Beech

Keywords Plus
leaf-area index, global radiation, light, model, canopies, array

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Allometric relationships on biomass and needle area of Douglas-fir


Bartelink HH

Agr Univ Wageningen, Dept Environm Sci, Sect Forestry, POB 342, NL-6700 AH Wageningen, Netherlands


Abstract
The aims of the study were: (1) to establish allometric relationships among stem and crown dimensions, biomass, and needle area; (2) to describe the above-ground dry matter distribution; (3) to determine the relationship between sapwood area and needle area; and (4) to describe the vertical distribution of tree needle area and branch biomass. Twenty-three trees out of four stands were sampled. Strong stand-independent correlations were found between stem and crown dimensions. Stem diameter at breast height (dbh) was non-linearly related to tree height, and linearly related to crown radius. Tree biomass generally increased with increasing dbh. The relationship between stem biomass and dbh was stand-independent, but the relationship between crown biomass and dbh clearly differed between the stands. Best results were obtained after two-sided logarithmic transformations. The ratio between needle biomass and branch biomass significantly decreased with increasing tree size. Dry matter distribution differed between trees from different crown classes. suppressed trees had relatively less crown biomass.

 

Specific needle area decreased with needle ageing and increased from tree top to crown base. SLA strongly varied within trees, but not between trees: needle biomass was strongly linearly related to needle area. Needle area was linearly correlated with sapwood cross-sectional area at breast height: ratio differences could be ascribed to differences in crown base height.

 

Vertical locations of the maximum needle area density (m(2) m(-)3) and branch biomass density (kg m(-3)) differed, reflecting the increase of the needle biomass/branch biomass ratio when moving upward in the crown. Location of the maximum density depended on canopy closure, but was generally below the middle of the crown. Bartelink 1996. For. Ecol. Manage. 86: 193-203.

 

Author Keywords
Douglas-fir, allometry, sapwood, dry matter distribution, needle area, pipe-model

KeyWords Plus
leaf-area, sapwood area, equations, stands, index, pine

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Resource allocation through goal programming

 

Kenneth E. Bottoms ,  E. T. Bartlett

Department of Range Science, Colorado state University, Fort Collins 80523

 

Abstract

One of the major weaknesses of using linear programming in natural resource management is that only a single criterion for determining the optimal strategy is allowed. A goal  programming model is presented that allows for multiple, conflicting goals. Results are provided for a management area in northern Colorado. The trade offs between goals are demonstrated by comparison of results from multiple runs in which the order of goal references is varied. Goal programming is shown to be a very flexible decision aiding tool which can handle any decision problem formulated by linear programming more efficiently. Bottoms and Bartlett 1975. J. Range. Manage. 28: 442-447.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spatial variability of topsoil characteristics within one silty soil type- Effects on clay migration

 

Bartoli F, Burtin G

Univ Nancy 1,Cnrs,Upr 6831,Ctr Pedol Biol, Bp 5,F-54501 Vandoeuvre Nancy,France
 Royer JJ

Cnrs,Ctr Rech Petrog & Geochim,F-54501 Vandoeuvre Nancy, France
Gury M, Gomendy V, Philippy R

Univ Nancy 1,Cnrs,Upr 6831,Ctr Pedol Biol, Bp 5,F-54501 Vandoeuvre Nancy,France

Leviandier T, Gafrej R

Cemagref,Div Hydrol,F-92164 Antony, France

 

Abstract
In order to understand and to model soil runoff erosion as well as to optimize sampling schemes, improved understanding of spatial variability of clay and some other soil erosion parameters is needed. For this purpose, two complementary approaches to the study of spatial variability of silty topsoil characteristics, the pedological approach and the fractal approach applied to geostatistics, were carried out in the context of soil erosion within the intensive cereal agriculture zone of northwestern Europe. Fractal geometry provides one synthetic key to the description of classical geostatistical tools such as variograms. Spatial structures of soil properties of each of the three topsoil pedological units were mostly characterized along the slope by the ranges of the fractal one-dimensional space domains and their scale invariants: the fractal dimensions. Results suggest that, within each topsoil pedological unit, these scale invariants are relevant qualifiers of the intrinsic topsoil variability, which can be modelled as a fractal Brownian process and should be incorporated in simple recursive or complex network soil erosion models. Different surface fractal dimensions, in a one-dimensional space, have been found within these three topsoil units for each soil parameter studied (multifractals), All the data have been aggregated within the whole one-dimensional slope transect in order to obtain both possible general scale laws on clays and other soil characteristics and possible evidence concerning underlying soil erosion mechanisms by particle runoff.
Bartoli, Burtin 1995. Geoderma. 68: 279-300.

 

KeyWords Plus
fractal dimensions, aggregate stability, multiscale sources, water properties, erosion, runoff, fragmentation, infiltration, porosity, networks

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Sulphate adsorption and acidification of Calluna heathland and Scots pine forest podzol soils in north-east Scotland

 

Deborah Barton, Shimna M. Gammack, Michael F. Billett, Malcolm S. Cresser

Department of Plant and Soil Science, University of Aberdeen, Old Aberdeen AB24 3UU Scotland, UK

 


Abstract
Three sites in north-east Scotland were selected to compare soil characteristics of acidification-sensitive sites under Calluna vulgaris heathland and afforestation. At each site, fences separate Calluna heathland from Scots pine plantation on podzol profiles evolved from granitic parent material on gentle slopes in the altitude range 200-500 m. In total, 30 soil pits were dug, with five for each land use-type at each of the three sites. Samples of each horizon were analysed for pH, sulphate adsorption/ desorption characteristics, cation exchange properties, carbon and nitrogen contents, bulk density and texture. As expected, acidification to depth had occurred in the forest sites. However, although the forest soils at depth showed less capacity for sulphate adsorption, as might be expected from increased atmospheric aerosol and pollutant trapping and greater water interception loss under trees, they did not contain more PO43--extractable sulphate. This may reflect the combined effects of soil pH differences and changes in concentrations and composition of soluble organic matter upon sulphate adsorption, although interpretation is also complicated by textural differences between forest and heathland soils. (C) 1999 Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved. Barton, Gammack et al.  1999. For. Ecol. Manage. 114: 151-164.
 

Keywords Plus:
dissolved organic-carbon, wind river mountains, sulfate adsorption, sulfur constituents, acid-rain, deposition, retention, iron, ph, sorption

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forest landscape management modeling using simulated annealing


Emin Z. Baskent

Karadeniz Tech Univ, Orman Fak Ogretim Uyesi, TR-61080 Trabzon, Turkey

Glen A. Jordan

Univ New Brunswick, Fac Forestry & Environm Management, Fredericton, NB E3B 6C2, Canada

 

 


Abstract
This paper presents a new landscape management model using a simulated annealing approach. The model is capable of achieving target landscape structure, in the form of composition and configuration objectives, in a near optimal fashion by spatially and temporally scheduling treatment interventions. Management objectives and constraints are identified in an objective function. Penalty cost functions for each objective establish common non-monetary units, and a mechanism for making trade-offs among different objectives. Management strategies, as well as alternative solutions as combinations of treatment scheduling of each stand, are formulated around treatment regimes, including varying intensities of planting, precommercial thinning, commercial thinning, two-stage harvesting and clear-cutting.

 

The model then examines alternative solutions using a heuristic process, and evaluates their effects on the objective over an entire planning horizon. The model was tested on a 20,000 ha (987 stands) hypothetical forest landscape with four replicates, differing in initial age class composition and spatial configuration. Management objectives included: (i) maximizing harvest volume, (ii) minimizing deviations in harvest flow, (iii) maintaining harvest block size between 40 and 100 ha, (iv) maintaining a one period adjacency delay, and (v) achieving an inverse-J distribution of harvest opening patches. Objective accomplishment, when compared to an aspatial optimal solution, varied from 72% for even flow harvest, to 99.9% for adjacency delay. These results generally reflect the objective priorities established for the test.

 

Results also suggested that the achievement of an inverse-J distribution of harvest opening patches depended not only upon the spatial harvest pattern, but initial forest conditions as well. In the case of the test forests, however, the effects of different initial age class structure and spatial configuration lasted a relatively short time. We conclude that simulated annealing allows a great deal of flexibility in designing landscape management in a near optimal fashion. Baskent and Jordan 2002. For. Ecol. Manage. 165: 29-45.

 

 

Author Keywords
landscape management, modeling, simulated annealing, harvest scheduling

KeyWords Plus
harvest scheduling problems, search procedure, optimization

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

Designing forest landscape management


Emin Z. Baskent

Karadeniz Tech Univ, Orman Fak Ogretim Uyesi, TR-61080 Trabzon, Turkey

Glen A. Jordan

Univ New Brunswick, Fac Forestry & Environm Management, Fredericton, NB E3B 6C2, Canada

Nurullah AMM

Faculty of Forestry and Environmental Management, University of New Brunswick, PO box 44555, Fredericton, NB E3B 6C2,  Canada



Abstract
Contemporary forest management design is generating innovative ideas as it evolves towards the management of forest landscapes. These ideas embody different management paradigms, modelling approaches and software engineering techniques. We explore these three in detail and suggest an ecological landscape management (ELM) paradigm coupled with meta-heuristics modelling and object-oriented software engineering techniques as a suitable framework for designing management for forest landscapes. We hope the paper provides insight and stimulates discussion about various forest landscape management design approaches. Baskent, Jordan et al. 2000. For. Chron. 76: 739-742.

 

Author Keywords
forest landscape management, forest modelling, software engineering

KeyWords Plus
disturbance, future

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spatial Wood Supply Simulation Modeling


Emin Z. Baskent

Karadeniz Tech Univ, Orman Fak Ogretim Uyesi, TR-61080 Trabzon, Turkey

Glen A. Jordan

Univ New Brunswick, Fac Forestry & Environm Management, Fredericton, NB E3B 6C2, Canada


Abstract
Conventional wood supply simulation models have been found inadequate in both calculating true assessments of wood supply and in translating management strategies into on-the-ground management design. These models treat forests as aspatial entities and are unable to include economic and wildlife considerations in management design and calculation of wood supply. This paper presents and discusses the design and construction of a GIS-based (geographic information system) spatial wood supply model. The model uses geographic distribution of stand development types and stages and their change over time to control harvesting and calculate wood supply based on extraction economics ($/m3) and wildlife habitat values (opening size and green-up). The paper points out that: a spatial model is capable of producing harvest schedules and forest performance indicators that reflect geographic context as well as condition of stands; a GIS database is more important in spatial modelling than GIS technology; harvest blocks are the basic geographic element in spatial modelling; a spatial model provides a truer assessment of wood supply; and stand topology makes it relatively easy to integrate wildlife and timber management.  Baskent and Jordan 1991. For. Chron. 67: 610-621. 

Author Keywords
timber, wildlife, forest management, GIS, simulation model, wood supply

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A case-study in spatial wood supply analysis  

Emin Z. Baskent

Karadeniz Tech Univ, Orman Fak Ogretim Uyesi, TR-61080 Trabzon, Turkey

Glen A. Jordan

Univ New Brunswick, Fac Forestry & Environm Management, Fredericton, NB E3B 6C2, Canada

 

FORESTRY CHRONICLE

68 (4): 503-516 AUG 1992

 


Abstract
This paper shows the effects of extraction economics and wildlife habitat values on wood supply for a 9,640 stand forest in New Brunswick. Using a spatial wood supply model developed at the University of New Brunswick, the paper quantifies and explains wood supply effects of harvest blocking, road cost and harvest adjacency delay. Eight spatial strategies test harvest scheduling based on geographic forest structure (distribution of stand developmental types and stages). Given a forest of mostly regenerating and mature developmental stages, wood supply reductions vary from 4.9 % to 19.2 % when compared to a convention aspatial assessment. The paper presents and explains reductions for all eight spatial strategies; but concludes that all are explained by the impacts that harvest blocking, road cost, or harvest adjacency delay have, singly, or in combination, on either mortality losses or the rate at which harvesting recycles forest area. Baskent and Jordan 1992. For. Chron. 68: 503-516.

Author Keywords
forest management, forest dynamics, gis, wildlife, simulation, wood supply, harvest scheduling

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

A dynamic model of growth in defoliated fir stands

 

G. Baskerville, S. Kleinschmidt

Faculty of Forestry, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, N.B., Canada E3B 5A3 Canada

 

Abstract

Constructing a dynamic model of growth in fir stands (age 30-70 years). based on gross physiological structure of the stand made possible reasonable qualitative and quantitative forecasts of growth loss due to defoliation by insects in a wide variety of situations. Analysis of the model, in comparison with the natural world, indicates that the key to understanding growth loss in fir stands subjected to defoliation by spruce budworm lies in more explicit knowledge of the mechanisms of new foliage production. Baskerville and Kleinschidt 1981. Can. J. For. Res. 11: 206-214.

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Use of logarithmic regression in the estimation of plant biomass

 

G.L. Baskerville

Canadian Forestry Service, P.O. Box 4000, Fredericton, New Brunswick.

 

Abstract

The Basic assumption of regression analysis are recalled with special reference to the use of a logarithmic transformation. The limitations imposed on inference-making by failure to comply with these assumptions are discussed and ways to avoid the limitations indicated. A systematic bias of the order of 10 to 20% which is inherent in most, if not all, prior uses of the logarithmic equation to estimate plant biomass is noted as is the correction for the bias. Baskerville 1972. Can. J. For. Res. 2: 49-53.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Relative stocking index - a proposed index of site quality
Berguson WE

Univ Minnesota, Dept Soil Sci,St Paul,Mn 55108

Grigal DF, Bates PC

Univ Minnesota, Dept Soil Sci,St Paul,Mn 55108 


Abstract
Site index is difficult to implement and interpret in multispecies, multiple-aged stands, and its relationship to site factors is obscure. Using data from the USDA forest inventory and analysis (FIA) for the Lake States, we developed log-log relationships between mean tree size and stand density for five cover types. Fits were good, with r2 from 0.96 to 0.98 and slopes from -0.948 to -0.995. We define an alternative index of site quality, the relative stocking index (RSI), as the ratio of a stand's measured density to that predicted using the log-log relationship for its cover type (the norm). We divided the range of RSI into three classes for each type (<0.9 of norm, >0.91 but <1.1 of norm, and >1.1 of norm). Based on analyses of the 1977 and 1990 FIA data from Minnesota, class assignments for individual stands remained constant over that 13-year period. Relationships between site factors and either RSI classes or analogous classes based on site index were examined in a subset of 169 stands. Temperature, precipitation, silt content of surface soil, and calculated annual water deficit all differed significantly among RSI classes, but not among site-index classes. The RSI is easy to apply, robust (resistant to change), and related to site factors. It merits additional examination as an index of site quality, especially in heterogenous stands. Berguson, Grigal 1994. Can. J. For. Res. 24: 1330-1336.

KeyWords Plus
white spruce plantations, mixed-species stands, nitrogen mineralization, alternative approach, productivity, soil, density, states, biomass, carbon

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Modeling the spatial structure of topical forests


Joao L.F. Batista

Univ Sao Paulo, Luiz de Queiroz Coll Agr, Dept Forest Sci, CxP 9, BR-13400970 Piracicaba, SP, Brazil

Douglas A. Maguire

Oregon State Univ, Coll Forestry, Dept Forest Resources, Corvallis, OR 97331 USA

 

 


Abstract
The spatial structure of tropical forest stands under different management conditions was modeled as a series of different spatial point processes. Spatial patterns were first assessed by K-function analyses to help choose a point process appropriate for observed patterns. The homogenous Neyman-Scott process accurately described live tree distribution in clear cut areas, when tree patterns tended to be aggregated. Parameters were estimated by minimizing Diggle's modified least squares criterion, and goodness-of-fit was assessed by comparison to confidence envelopes constructed by Monte Carlo simulation. Parameter estimates can be interpreted to help understand the ecological processes influencing re-colonization of disturbed areas. The inhomogeneous Poisson process was investigated for simulating the spatial pattern of ingrowth trees in lower canopy strata. The intensity function of this process was inversely proportional to variables representing canopy density. As assessed by Monte Carlo generation of confidence envelopes, the inhomogeneous Poisson process successfully portrayed the influence of canopy structure on understory plant distribution in most stands. Tree mortality was modeled as a thinning process in which the probability of individual tree mortality was conditional on subject tree attributes and competitive environment. The thinning function took the form of a generalized linear model with a binomial error distribution and legit link function. In most stands, tree neighborhood variables were powerful predictors of mortality, but they were not important predictors in all plots. This suggests that the surrounding forest structure of a subject tree has considerable influence on its morality, but competition is not the sole cause of tree morality in tropical forests. Batista and Maguire 1998.  For. Ecol. Manage. 110: 293-314.

 

Author Keywords
forest management, spatial pattern modeling, K-function, point process model, Neyman-Scott process, inhomogeneous Poisson process

KeyWords Plus
tropical forests, tree dispersion, pattern, recruitment, vegetation, diversity, dynamics, ecology, pine

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hybrid growth model to predict height and volume growth in young Eucalyptus globulus plantations 


Battaglia M, Sands PJ

Cooperat Res Ctr Sustainable Prod Forestry, GPO Box 252-12, Hobart, Tas 7001, Australia
 Candy SG

Forestry Tasmania, GPO Box 207B, Hobart 7001, Australia

 


Abstract
A process-base site productivity model (PROMOD) was hybridized with an empirical growth projection model (NITGRO) developed for Eucalyptus nitens plantations. The subsequent hybrid growth model was used to predict the time course of height and volume growth in 16 plantations of E. globulus located in northern Tasmania, Australia. Growth in these plantations war constrained by temperature, water stress, waterlogging and poor site nutrition. With the help of a few simple, easily obtained site descriptors, PROMOD was used to predict the site index for these sites. This site index was used to run NITGRO, Comparison of predictions with observed height and volume growth indicated that height growth was predicted accurately, but that estimates of volume growth were biased. The bias in the estimates of volume growth may be the result of the application of a growth model developed for E. nitens plantations to E. globulus plantations. Battaglia, Sands et al. 1999. For. Ecol. Manage. 120: 193-201.

 

KeyWords Plus
carbon balance model, pinus-radiata, site index, Douglas-fir, nitrogen, yield, productivity, variables, moisture, curves

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spatial structure of light and dipterocarp seedling growth in a tropical secondary forest


Dan  Bebber, Nick  Brown

Univ Oxford, Dept Plant Sci, S Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3RB, England
 Martin  Speight

Univ Oxford, Dept Zool, Oxford OX1 3PS, England
 Pedro Moura-Costa, Yap Sau Wai

INFAPRO, Lahad Datu 91112, Sabah, Malaysia

 


Abstract
Variation in forest canopy openness influences the growth and survival of seedlings below, and is therefore of practical importance when wishing to restock a forest with valuable timber species after logging. In this study, growth and light environment of dipterocarp seedlings in an enrichment planting project in secondary lowland forest in Borneo were analysed using geostatistics, in order to determine the spatial relationships between canopy openness and seedling performance, Seedling growth was correlated with canopy openness measures up to 50 m away along planting lines but was uncorrelated across planting lines, because the dense understorey between planting lines blocked lateral light. It is recommended that planting be conducted in patches rather than along lines, so that understorey clearance can allow light from canopy gaps in all directions to reach seedlings. Bebber, Brown et al. 2002. For. Ecol. Manage. 157: 65-75.

 

Author Keywords
geostatistics, enrichment planting, dipterocarpaceae, seedling growth, spatial autocorrelation, canopy openness

Keywords Plus
lowland rain-forest, solar-radiation, canopies, gap, autocorrelation, understory, sabah, danum

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Field Methods and Data Processing Techniques Associated With Mapped Inventory Plots

 

William A. Bechtold, Stanley J. Zarnoch

USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station, 200 Weaver Blvd., Asheville, NC, 28802.

Abstract

The U.S. Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) and Forest Health Monitoring (FHM) programs utilize a fixed-area mapped-plot design as the national standard for extensive forest inventories. The mapped-plot design is explained, as well as the rationale for its selection as the national standard. Ratio-of-means estimators am presented as a method to process data from mapped inventory plots. Bechtold and Zarnoch et al. 1999. USDA For. Serv. Proceedings. RMRS-P-12. 421-424.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comparisons of modeled height predictions to ocular height estimates  

W.A. Bechtold, S.J. Zarnoch, W.G. Burkman

USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station, Asheville, NC.

Abstract

Equations used by USDA Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis projects to predict individual tree heights on the basis of species and dbh were improved by the addition of mean overstory height. However, ocular estimates of total height by field crews were more accurate than the statistically improved models, especially for hardwood species. Height predictions from the improved equations attained the desired measurement quality objective only 57% of the time, while ocular estimates achieved the desired accuracy 75% of the time. South. J. Appl. For. 22(4):216-221.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Structure of pine stands in the Southeast

 

William A. Bechtold

Forest Inventory and Analysis Asheville, North Carolina

Gregory A. Ruark

Forest Soil Productivity in the Southeast Research Triangle Park, North Carolina

 

Abstract

Distributional and statistical information associated with stand age, site index, basal area per acre, number of stems per acre, and stand density index is reported for major pine cover types of the Southeastern United States. Means, standard deviations, and ranges of these variables are listed by State and physiographic region for loblolly, slash, longleaf, pond, shortleaf, and Virginia pine cover types. Graphic illustrations of multidimensional relationships among some of the variables are also provided. Bechtold and Ruark 1988. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. SE-274.

Key Words

Southern pine, timberland, pinus, stand structure, forest inventory

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Yellow-Poplar: Characteristics and Management

Donald E. Beck, Lino Della-Bianca

Southeastern Forest Experiment Station Asheville, North Carolina

Abstract

This reference tool and field guide for foresters and other landmanagers includes a synthesis of information on the characteristics of yellow-poplar with guidelines for managing the species. It is based on research conducted by many individuals in State and Federal forestry organizations and in universities throughout the Eastern United States.

 

This handbook describes distribution, uses, biological and environmental features, regeneration methods, stand management opportunities, and growth and yield estimates. Beck and Della-Bianca 1981. USDA For. Serv. (Agriculture Handbook No. 583). Agric. Handb. NO. 583. 92p.

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Growth and Development of Thinned Versus Unthinned Yellow-Poplar Sprout Clumps

 

Donald E. Beck

Southeastern Forest Experiment Station Asheville, North Carolina

 

Abstract

Southeastern Forest Experiment Station Asheville, North Carolina Yellow-poplar stump sprouts are capable of very rapid growth and often dominate stands on good sites following harvest cutting. Thinning to one stem per stump at 6 years of age did not affect either height or diameter growth over the succeeding 18 years. The untreated clumps thinned themselves to an average of two stems per clump during the same time period. Thinning to one stem had no apparent effect on butt rot potential from the parent stump, but did reduce the potential for rot from dying ancillary. Beck 1977. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. SE-173. 16p.

Key Words

height growth, diameter growth, butt rot, mortality, fungi, multiple stems, stumps

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Board-Foot and Diameter Growth of Yellow-Poplar After Thinning

 

Donald E. Beck, Lino Della-Bianca

Bent Creek Experimental Forest, USDA Forest Service Southeastern Forest Experiment Station, Asheville, North Carolina

 

Abstract

Board-foot growth and yield of thinned yellow-poplar stands (Liriodendron tulipifera L.) is related to age, site index, residual basal area, and residual quadratic mean stand diameter after thinning. Diameter growth of individual trees is increased considerably by thinning. Equations describing growth and yield are based on data from 141 natura1 yellow-poplar stands in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia, North Carolina, and Georgia. Beck and Della-Bianca 1975. USDA For. Serv. Se. For. Exp. Stn., Asheville, NC. Res. Pap. SE-123. 20p.

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Growth and Yield of Thinned Yellow-Poplar

 

Donald E. Beck, Lino Della-Bianca

U. S. Department of Agriculture-Forest Service Southeastern Forest Experiment Station

Asheville, North Carolina

 

Abstract

Diameter distributions and yields for various combinations of site index, age, and density for unthinned and largely undisturbed stands of yellow-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera L. ) have been presented by McGee and Della-Bianca (1967) and Beck and Della-Bianca (1970). Their results were based on the initial measurements of a network of permanent sample plots throughout the southern Appalachians. In this paper we present equations for predicting basal-area growth and cubic-foot volume growth and yield in stands thinned to various levels of basal area. These results are based on measurements of the permanent plots taken 5 years after the initial thinnings. Beck and Della-Bianca 1972. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. SE-101. 24p.

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Enhancing a Permanent Sample Plot System in Natural Forests

 

Trevor Beetson, Marks Nester

Queensland Forest Service, M.S. 483, Gympie QLD 4570, Australia

Jerry Vanclay

Faculty of Forestry, Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Thorvaldsensvej 57, DK-1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark  

Abstract   

Decision support systems to assist successful forest management are based on growth models and other prediction techniques. These tools are in turn dependent upon data derived from permanent sample plots (PSPs). Thus the quality of information depends on the placement and management of these PSPs. While existing sample plots may have been adequate in the past, improved technology and new techniques have created new possibilities for which these data have proved suboptimal. Funds for the establishment of additional plots are generally limited, so supplementary sampling should be based on an optimal sampling strategy employing prior information. This case study in South-east Queensland used topoclimatic strata and existing inventory data to identify where additional PSPs should be established, so as to increase the geographical and silvicultural range of the growth data collected. Some existing PSPs in areas considered over-sampled may be abandoned.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Estimation of total yield of Douglas-fir by means of incomplete growth series


Begin J

Univ Laval,Fac Foresterie & Geomat,Quebec City G1K 7P4, PQ, Canada
Schutz JP

Eth Zentrum,Ecole Polytech Fed Zurich,Ch-8092 Zurich,Switzerland

 


Abstract
This study establishes and validates a method that takes into account yield levels and permits the reconstruction and modelling of the evolution of total yield based on incomplete growth series. The calculation of total yield of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb) Franco var menziesii Franco) is carried out by integrating the equation of volume increment per metre dominant height growth. The model utilized explains 94.8% of the variation in volume increment per metre height growth of the 14 experimental plots. The evolution of total yield is calculated for 4 current increment levels. The concept of current increment levels is similar to the concept of yield levels, and corresponds to the value of volume increment per metre height growth, at a height of 30 m. At an equivalent yield level, the calculated total yield curves correspond closely to those calculated by Bergel (1985). Begin and Schutz 1994. Ann. Sci. For. 51: 345-355. 

Author Keywords
total yield, yield level, current increment level, volume increment, douglas fir

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Volume and Weight Tables for Plantation - Grown Sycamore

Roger P. Belanger

USDA Forestry Sciences Laboratory Athens, Georgia

Abstract

American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis L.) is well suited for short-rotation management. It can be regenerated easily, has produced excellent early growth on good sites, and lends itself to mechanized harvesting. Steinbeck et al. concluded that spacings of 4 by 4 feet or more and rotation ages from 4 to 10 years hold considerable promise from the standpoints of production, utilization, and management. This paper presents cubic-foot volumes, green weights, and dry weights for the tree sizes expected under these conditions. Belanger 1973. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. SE-107. 11p.

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A description of STEMS-- the stand and tree evaluation and modeling system

 

David M. Belcher, Margaret R. Holdaway, Gary J. Brand

USDA Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station,1992 Folwell Avenue St. Paul, Minnesota 55108, USA

Abstract

This paper describes STEMS (Stand and Tree Evaluation and Modeling System), the current computerized Lake State tree growth projection system. It presents the program structure, discusses the growth and mortality components, the management subsystem, and the regeneration subsystem. Some preliminary results of model testing are presented and an application is discussed. Belcher, Holdaway et al. 1982. USDA For. Serv. North Cent. For. Exp. Sta. Res. Pap. NC-79. 19p.

 

Key words

simulation, Lake States species, mortality model, regeneration model, management guides, growth model, projection system, FORTRAN, validation

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Applying geostatistics to identification of spatial patterns of fecal contamination in a mussel farming area (havre de la vanlee, france)


Benoit Beliaeff

Ifremer, F-44037 Nantes 01,France

Marie-Laure Cochard

Ifremer, F-29280 Plouzane,France

 


Abstract
Microbiological quality of shellfish production areas along the French coast is assessed through quantification of fecal coliforms, commonly used as indicators of fecal pollution. Their concentration is measured in filter-feeding molluscs, presumed to integrate highly fluctuating quantities of these germs from the surrounding filtrated water. In the context of a bacteriological monitoring network, knowledge of contamination spatial structures may help for further optimal sampling designs. This study aims at applying geostatistical techniques to describe and characterize the spatial structure of the fecal contamination in mussels (Mytilus edulis) over a given production area (Havre de la Vanlee, France), located in macrotidal waters. In comparison with common interpolation methods, the kriging estimator, a basic tool in geostatistics, presents the major advantage of providing unbiased estimates with known and minimum variances. It thus appears to be the most powerful procedure to produce contour maps for the concentration estimates and their standard deviations. Differences in mean concentration between the two conducted surveys are compared with differences in concentration found in continental inputs. Although two surveys are not sufficient to assess accurately spatio-temporal variabilities, the use of kriging reveals high spatial heterogeneity, with different structures and meteorological conditions from one survey to the other. This leads to questioning the validity of a monitoring based on a few sampling stations over a large area sampled monthly to estimate a mean bacteriological level. Beliaeff, Cochard et al. 1995. Wat. Res. 29: 1541-1548. 

Author Keywords
bacteriological monitoring, fecal coliforms, mussel beds, systematic sampling, spatial structure, kriging, interpolation, mapping, sampling optimization

KeyWords Plus
ecosystem thau basin, bacterial

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Mathematical programming in forestry

 

Enoch F. Bell

Economics of Forest Land Management Project, Pacific Northwest Forest and Range Experiment Station, USDA Forest Service, Portland, Oregon Forest Economics Research, Intermountain Forest and Range Experiment Station, Missoula, Montana

Abstract

Linear programming and its related techniques are increasingly being applied in forestry planning, programming, and budgeting. Caution must be exercised in application to assure that the assumptions accompanying use of the models are not extensively violated. Bell 1977. J. For. 74: 317-319.

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessment of regeneration stocking standards used in Alberta: a follow-up

 

I.E., Bella, J.P. DeFranceschi

Northern Forest Research Centre, Canadian Forestry Service Environment Canada, 5320-122 Street Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6H 3S5

Abstract

This is the second phase of a study conducted to update reforestation standards used in Alberta. The analysis was based on growth and size information of open-growing lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Dougl. Var. latifolia Engelm.)  and white spruce (Picea glauca(Moench) Voss) to estimate the minimum number of well-dispersed trees and stocking percentage required for complete site utilization at reference age of half rotation (40 years for lodgepole pine, 40or 50 years for white spruce). The minimum numbers of well-dispersed trees per hectare required were 575 pine (233.acre) in the Foothills, 610 spruce (247/acre) for sawlog stands in the Mixed wood, 720 spruce (291/acre) for sawlog stands in the Foothills, 900 spruce (364/acre) for pulpwood stands in the Mixed wood, and 1100 spruce (445/acre) for pulpwood stands in the foothills.

 

Seedling spatial pattern and density were examined in regeneration 10 years after logging, sampled over a wide geographical area in the important forest types of Alberta. Seedling pattern for both species was generally clumpy. Therefore, to ensure at least the minimum required number of well-dispersed seedings on an area, the use of suitably large quadrate (10 m2 or more) and high stocking is necessary. Relationships were developed to show, by stocking percentage classes, the relative frequencies of stocked quadrates with at least 1, 2, 3, etc. seedlings.

 

Appropriate minimum stocking percentages (by 10 m2 quadrates) derived were 65% for pine, 70 and 80 for spruce sawlog stands in the Mixed wood and the Foothills respectively, and 90% for spruce pulpwood stands. Because the two species have different stocking potentials, procedures are presented for adjusting survey results when regeneration is a mixture of pine and spruce.

 

Because of clumping and ingress, the many extra seedlings present on stocked areas constitute a good reserve of potential crop trees should some of the “first” seedlings die. However, because present knowledge is rather scanty on mortality between age 10 and half-rotation age, definitive results must await the availability of more and better information. Relatively open conditions at younger ages and generally more open stands on less productive sites implied by these standards may be advantageous for recreation and wildlife. Bella and  DeFranceschi 1978. NFC. Can. For. Serv. Inf. Rep. NOR-X-211. 27p.

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Western gall rust dynamics and impact in young lodgepole pine stands

in west-central Alberta

 

I. E. Bella, S. Navratil

 

Northern Forestry Centre, Canadian Forestry Service, 5320, 122 Street, Edmonton, Alta., Canada T6H 3S5

 

Abstract

A sample of 29 405 lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Dougl. var. latifolia Engelm.) trees was assessed from 1982 to 1985, and stem analysis data of 75 trees from five heavily infested second-growth stands in the foothills of the Rockies were analyzed to determine the incidence, development, and impact of western gall rust Endocronartium harknessii (J.P. Moore) Y. Hiratsuka, in relation to age of trees and stand and site factors. The incidence of western gall rust increased with stand age and time. In stands up to 12 years old, the incidence averaged about 5% and increased rapidly to about 20% at age 20. A rapid increase in incidence over time occurred in younger age-classes. In stands 20 years or older, the incidence of new infection was low. Mortality associated with western gall rust among crop trees was low. There was, however, 30% mortality in an unthinned 22-year-old stand over its life. Impact on growth was highly significant (P < 0.01). In the periods 11-15 years and 16-20 years after the wave of heavy infection, reductions in volume growth of infected crop trees were 15 and 25%, respectively. This loss amounts to 15% of the total volume over the 20-year period during which the stands are affected. Western gall rust incidence was higher (p< 0.01) in stands on east-facing slopes than on south- and north-facing slopes. Stands at elevations between 1200 and 1400 m had the highest incidence. Forest management strategies to reduce the impact of western gall rust are discussed, with emphasis on spacing that includes sanitary removal of infected trees. west-central Alberta. Can. J. For. Res. 18: 1437-1442. Bella and Navratil 1988. Can. J. For. Res. 18: 1437-1442.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Western gall rust and insect leader damage in relation to tree size in young lodgepole pine in Alberta

 

I. E. Bella

Northern Forest Research Centre, Canadian Forestry Service, 5320 122 Street, Edmonton, Alfa., Canada T6H 3S5

 

Abstract

In a sample of 121 young lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Dougl. var. larifolia Engelm.) stands in naturally regenerated cut blocks near Hinton, A h . , strong positive correlations were observed in the incidence of gall rust (Endocronartium harknessii (J. P. Moore) Y. Hiratsuka) and leader damage from terminal weevil (Pissodes terminalis Hopp.) and from pitch twig moth (Petrova spp.) with tree size in both thinned and unthinned stands. Although tests on a selected number of the largest trees from each plot showed no significant differences in incidence of the two pest categories between thinned and unthinned stands, thinning that retains the large trees may result in an Increase in relative incidence of these pests unless special effort is made to cut damaged trees and retain undamaged ones. Bella 1985. Can. J. For. Res. 15: 1008-1010.

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Growth of lodgepole pine after mechanical strip thinning in Alberta: 15-year results

 

I. E. Bella , J.P. De Franceschi  

Northern Forest Research Centre, Canadian Forestry Service Environment Canada, 5320-122 Street Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6H 3S5

Abstract

An operational thinning in a 25-year-old lodgepole pine (pinus contota Dougl. Var. latifolia Engelm) stand in Alberta resulted in nearly a 50% increase in diameter at breast height (dbh) and height increment in the last 5 years. Initial stands density had no effect on dbh increment beyond that of initial tree size. The release effect extended throughout the narrow (around 1.5 m) leave strips. Mortality continued to occur at about the same rate in both treated and untreated plots, thus reducing the need for follow-up selective thinning. Although the treated area had much lower stand volumes, it has a faster growth rate and may catch up or even surpass the untreated area in merchantable yield at harvest. Bella and Franceschi 1982. For. Chron. 58: 131-135.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Assessment of regeneration stocking standards used in Alberta

Bella, I.E., J.P. DeFranceschi  

Northern Forest Research Centre, Canadian Forestry Service Environment Canada, 5320-122 Street Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6H 3S5

Abstract

The implication of the 40% stocking standard (by 1-milacre quadrates) that was adopted over a decade ago in Alberta was examined using data from the Foothills and Mixed wood on regeneration and expected growth, development, and yield of stands after logging. New minimum stocking standards were derived for the two most important commercial conifers, requiring at least 220 well-dispersed lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Dougl. var. latifolia Engelm.) trees per acre (560/ha), or 300 well-dispersed white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) per acre (750/ha).

Seedling spatial pattern for both species was generally clumped. To ensure the minimum required number of well-dispersed seedlings on an area, a larger quadrat should be used in place of the 1-milacre quadratic regeneration surveys. A 10-m2 (1 millihectare, approx. 2.5-milacre) quadrat is suitable for spruce and 12-m2 for pine. The corresponding minimum stocking percentages for the two species should be around 75% and 70%, respectively.

 

While these recommended minimum numbers of trees may seem low compared to the existing standard, they were derived t o ensure full stocking halfway through the rotation on medium or better sites, thus ensuring acceptable yield at harvest at a reasonable level of safety. Open stands on less productive sites may serve other important functions such as recreation and wildlife habitat.

 

Problems arising from the present use of stocked quadrat surveys are discussed and recommendations given for further study of the problem. Bella and Franceschi 1976. NFC. Can. For. Serv. Inf. Rep. NOR-X-167. 45p.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commercial thinning improves growth of jack pine

 

I. E. Bella , J. P. DeFranceschi

Northern Forest Research Centre, Canadian Forestry Service Department of the Environment, Edmonton, Alberta

Abstract

Jack pine (Pinus banksiana lamb.) stands on good sites showed improved tree and stand growth following commercial low and crown thinning at age 40. Data l5 years after thinning suggest that gross pulpwood and sawlog yields (thinning plus final yield) will be greater in treated stands.  Growth response to crown thinning occurred later than response to low thinning, but its effect was of longer duration. Therefore, on good sites, a combination of low and crown thinning which removes up to 30-35% of basal area at a stand age of about 40 years may be advantageous because it reduces thinning costs, improves yield, and lowers harvesting and processing costs because of increased tree size. Bella and Franceschi 1974.  Env. Can., For. Serv. North. For. Res. Cent. Inf. Rep. NOR-X-112. 26p.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

Growth of young lodgepole pine after mechanical strip thinning in Alberta

I. E. Bella  

Northern Forest Research Centre, Canadian Forestry Service Department of the Environment, Edmonton, Alberta

Abstract

In 25-year-old lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Dougl. Var. latifolia Engelm.) stands in the foothills, strip thinning stimulated diameter increment, both at breast height and at ground level, of all trees in the dense portions of the stand within five years after treatment. Greatest absolute response in increment was among the larger trees while the small trees showed greater relative response. No significant thinning-response in increment could be established among trees growing under relatively open stand conditions. Because this species seems to respond well to release in dense stands even at age 25, the scheduling of treatment is quite flexible. There was relatively small amounts of drum chopper damage to trees on strip borders and there is no evidence of increase in insect and disease activity. Slash from thinning is decomposing rapidly to the ‘cut’ stripe. Black spruce advanced growth that escaped the chopper blades shows vigorous growth here and will likely form a second story in these stands. Bella 1972. Environ. Can. For. Serv. North. For. Res. Cent. Nor-x-23: 16p.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A new competition model for individual trees

I. E. Bella  

Northern Forest Research Centre, Canadian Forestry Service Department of the Environment, Edmonton, Alberta

Abstract

The model represents mathematically competitive interaction between individual trees. It consists of two basic components: (1) the influence zone of each tree ( which is a function of its size) and (2) the amount and nature of interaction ( which depends on the distance between and relative size of the competing tree and its competitors and also on a power of relative tree size) . Optimum model parameters were obtained by iterative procedures on a computer, combined with regression analyses for pure, even-aged, fully stocked stands of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco), jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.), red pine (P. resinosa Ait.), and aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) and for an even-aged stand of Eucalyptus spp. Growing at a range of stand densities. The model satisfactorily described competition effect for the five stands studied and accounted for a greater portion of variation in tree growth than some of the earlier competition indices. Bella 1971. For. Sci. 17: 364-372.

 

Additional key words

Tree growth, stand density

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Growth and Survival Modeling for Planted Conifers in the Great Lakes Region

Keith L. Belli

Faculty of Forestry, University of Toronto. Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A1, Canada

 

Alan R. Ek

Department of Forest Resources, College of Forestry, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108.

 

Abstract

In the steady advance of techniques to model forest systems. The development of models to represent the brief, but crucial, establishment phase of planted conifers has been largely ignored. A framework of prediction equations was developed for the growth and survival of red pine and white spruce during the first 5 years after planting. The model development process incorporated data synthesized from published reports of planting experiments in the Great Lakes region. Two compatible growth estimation functions were derived to accommodate observations of plantation averages in the form of either annual stem height increment or total cumulative stem height. A single function was hypothesized for total percent survival. The overall modeling effort is a “first step” in characterizing the regeneration system. Belli and Ek 1988. For. Sci. 34(2):458-473.

Additional key words

red pine, pinus resinosa. white spruce, picea gluaca. planting, stand establishment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Relative stocking index - a proposed index of site quality


William E. Berguson

Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota at Dultuth, Duluth, MN 55811, USA

David F. Grigal, Peter C. Bates

Department of Soil Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA

 


Abstract
Site index is difficult to implement and interpret in multispecies, multiple-aged stands, and its relationship to site factors is obscure. Using data from the USDA forest inventory and analysis (FIA) for the Lake States, we developed log-log relationships between mean tree size and stand density for five cover types. Fits were good, with r2 from 0.96 to 0.98 and slopes from -0.948 to -0.995. We define an alternative index of site quality, the relative stocking index (RSI), as the ratio of a stand's measured density to that predicted using the log-log relationship for its cover type (the norm). We divided the range of RSI into three classes for each type (<0.9 of norm, >0.91 but <1.1 of norm, and >1.1 of norm). Based on analyses of the 1977 and 1990 FIA data from Minnesota, class assignments for individual stands remained constant over that 13-year period. Relationships between site factors and either RSI classes or analogous classes based on site index were examined in a subset of 169 stands. Temperature, precipitation, silt content of surface soil, and calculated annual water deficit all differed significantly among RSI classes, but not among site-index classes. The RSI is easy to apply, robust (resistant to change), and related to site factors. It merits additional examination as an index of site quality, especially in heterogenous stands. Berguson, Grigal et al. 1994. Can. J. For. Res. 24: 1330-1336.

 

Keywords Plus
white spruce plantations, mixed-species stands, nitrogen mineralization, alternative approach, productivity, soil, density, states, biomass, carbon

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

Effect of rotation length on productivity of aspen sucker stands

 

A. B. Berry and W. M. Stiell

Petawawa Forest Experiment Station Chalk River, Ontario

Abstract

Repeated harvesting of young aspen sucker stands at the Petawawa Forest Experiment station indicated that biomass prediction cannot be sustained on rotations of up to ca 10 years for longer periods are not yet available but growth trends at least 15 years as the minimum rotation age. Berry and Stiell 1978. For. Chron. 54: 265-267.

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metric yield tables based on site class and spacing for unthinned red pine plantations at the Petawawa Forest Experiment Station

 

Berry AB

Petawawa Forest Experiment Station Chalk River, Ontario

Abstract

Yield tables for high survival unthinned red pine plantations were updated and revised to present the data in metric units.  Tables present the data from 20 to 50years from planting, by 5-year age classes, for eight planted spacing and five site index classes. Each table shows the number of trees, basal area, total volume, and merchantable volume per hectare and the mean dbh for each age and spacing. Site index curves are also presented. Berry 1977. Fish. Envir. Can., For. Serv. Inf. Rep. PS-X-65. 18-Jan.

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The self-thinning surface


Huiquan Bi

State Forests NSW, Res & Dev Div, POB 100, Beecroft, NSW 2119, Australia

 


Abstract
This article introduces a generalized expression of the self-thinning rule, B = (KSNbeta)-N-alpha, where B is stand biomass per unit area, N is stand density, S is relative site index, and K, alpha and beta are parameters. On log scales, this equation becomes a self-thinning surface that defines a density-dependent upper frontier of stand biomass over a gradient of site productivity for a given species. This equation is formulated for parameter estimation as a stochastic frontier function with two error components that have different distributional properties. As an example, maximum likelihood estimates of the self-thinning surface and its confidence envelope were shown for Pinus radiata (D. Don). Furthermore, site occupancy was estimated through one of the error components of the stochastic frontier function. The conditional response of mortality at any given site occupancy was revealed by using regression quintiles. Light mortality was associated with increases in site occupancy, while heavy mortality caused a reduction in site occupancy. Changes in the estimated site occupancy had a linear relationship with changes in log stand density. The dynamic interplay between site occupancy and mortality, together with the random external effects on the self-thinning frontier, was suggested to drive the growth trajectories of individual stands during stand growth and self-thinning. Consequently, individual stands seldom travel along their self-thinning frontiers but are more likely to converge toward them during the self-thinning phase of stand development. Bi 2001. For. Sci. 47: 361-370.

Author Keywords
stochastic frontier function, site productivity, site occupancy, mortality regression quintile, stand dynamics, Pinus radiata

Keywords Plus
Density Management Diagrams, Pinus-Taeda Plantations, Quintile Regression, Stand Density, Plant-Populations, United-States, Jack Pine, Competition, Rule, Radiata

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flexible taper equation for site-specific management of Pinus radiata in New South Wales, Australia

 


Huiquan Bi, Yushan Long

Forest Reserch and Development Division, State Forests of NSW, P.O. Box 100, Beecroft, NSW 2119, Australia

 


Abstract
A trigonometric variable-form taper equation has been developed for P: radiata using data from 3251 trees sampled across plantation sites in New South Wales. Australia. The equation predicts relative stem diameter with little local bias within any stem sections, and the 90% confidence interval of prediction error is within +/-0.1 over the entire stem. Evaluation of prediction accuracy over 10 diameter classes shows that the local bias of relative diameter prediction is mostly within +/-0.015 within any stem section. The most biased and the least precise predictions were found for small trees with overbark diameter at breast height less than 18.3 cm. There was little bias in the estimation of merchantable height at any specified top end underbark diameter ranging from 5 to 40 cm using the taper equation. The average size of error of merchantable height estimation was less than 1 m for top end diameter limit less than 20 cm and slightly greater than 1 m beyond this range. When compared against the nine site-specific compatible polynomial taper equations currently used in forest management across the nine site strata, the trigonometric variable-form taper equation generally provides more accurate predictions of relative diameter, although the former is a single function and the later consists of nine separate site-specific equations. The flexibility and predictive performance of the trigonometric variable-form taper function should eliminate the needs of developing potentially a large number of site-specific compatible polynomial taper functions, particularly with increasingly refined definition of sites for P. radiata under site-specific management in New South Wales. Developing more general yet flexible trigonometric variable-form taper functions for P. radiata will prove to be more cost-efficient.  Bi and Long 2001. For. Ecol. Manage. 148: 79-91.

 

Author Keywords
trigonometric variable-form taper function: prediction accuracy, model comparison, site-specific management

Keywords Plus
stem form

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Estimating distribution and retention of mercury in three different soils contaminated by emissions from chlor-alkali plants: part I


Biester H, Muller G, Scholer HF

Institute of Environmental Geochemistry, University of Heidelberg, INF 236, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany


 


Abstract
Mercury emissions from chlor-alkali plants have been past and present sources of soil contamination with Hg. Here we calculate net mercury (Hg) deposition to soils in the vicinity (100-1000-m downwind) of three-chlor alkali plants. Calculations were based on spatial distribution patterns of Hg concentrations in soils, which were extrapolated by kriging. Moreover, we investigated to what extent Hg deposition depends on the elevation of receptors and canopy through fall. Mercury concentrations in soil exceed backgound values up to a factor of 56 and show enrichment factors between 2 and 5.8 calculated from the median Hg concentration. Net deposition rates range between 2356 and 8952 mug m(-2) year(-1) which is up to 224-fold the background values. Net deposition of Hg to soils at the three sites varies between 1.2 and 2.4% of total emitted Hg. Highest deposition rates were found at sites with extended elevated or forested areas. Here, Hg concentrations in soils increased by a factor of up to 7.3 in elevated (+ 180 m) forest areas compared to non-elevated Grassland soils. Biester,Muller et al. 2002. Sci. Total Environ. 284: 177-189.

 

Author Keywords
chlor alkali plants, mercury, soils, Hg deposition rates, Hg retention

KeyWords Plus
elemental mercury, chloralkali plant, deposition, pollution, forest, dry

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

Estimating the accuracy of volume equations using taper equations of stem profile  

Greg S. Biging

Department of Forestry and Resource Management, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA

Abstract

Comparison of log volume estimation techniques are performed using the equations of Smalian, Huber, and Newton, and a numerical technique using cubic splines. The data utilized were obtained by predicting diameters at various points along the stem from two pater equations for white fir. Results indicate that Newton’s and Huber’s equations were the most accurate, followed by the cubic spline and Smalian’s equation, respectively. This technique facilitated partitioning of the total error in volume estimation into measurement error and error due to model misspecification arising when the taper of logs could not be exactly described by a simple model such as a frustum of a paraboloid. For the taper relationships analyzed it was shown that the error due to the selection of an inappropriate mensurational model is less than 5%for a measurement distance of 16 ft (4.9 m) for all models tested and can be substantially reduced by applying the formulate only to logs positioned above basal swell. Systematic measurement error was assessed analytically and found to range between 1 and 4%.  Thus, total error in volume estimation was less than 9%for all methods tested. Biging 1988. Can. J. For. Res. 18: 1002-1007.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Improved estimates of site-index curves using a varying-parameter model  

Greg S. Biging 

Univ Calif. Berkley, Dept Forestry & Resource Management, Berkley, CA 94720,USA

Abstract

Current methods for developing site index curves from stem analysis data or from remeasured permanent plots commonly regress height on age (or age and site) using a nonlinear regression model fitted to the pooled observations. While this is a computationally efficient method, it does not satisfactorily account for between-tree differences in individual tree height growth. This paper presents a varying-parameter (linear random regression coefficient) model that is derived by fitting height growth models to each individual tree in the data set A weighted least squares technique is then employed to combine these individual estimates to  mean estimate of the parameters of a sigmoid height growth model. These parameters are then used to predict the height development of site trees. An example of the procedure is given using stem analysis data from primarily dominant trees in the young-growth mixed conifer forests of California. Biging 1985. For. Sci. 31:248-259.

Additional key words

Stem analysis data, sigmoid model, height growth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taper equation for second-growth mixed conifers of northern California

Greg S. Biging 

Univ. Calif. Berkley, Dept Forestry & Resource Management, Berkley, CA 94720,USA

Abstract

This paper presents a taper equation derived from the Chapman-Richards function to describe stem form for second-growth mixed conifers in Northern California. The primary use of the models is for predicting upper stem diameters as a function of relative height and DBH. Additionally, these models can be used to create volume tables to any merchantable top diameter. Biging 1984. For. Sci. 30: 1103-1117.

 

Additional key words

Chapman-Richards function, Mixed confier forests.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Long-term responses of stem growth and leaf area to thinning and fertilization in a Douglas-fir plantation

Dan Binkley

School of Forestry and Environmental Studies Duke University, Durham, NC, USA, 27706

Pual Reid

Department of Forest Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR. USA, 97331  

Abstract

Within a 53-year-old Douglas-fir(Psuedotsuga mensiesii (Mirb.) Franco) plantation, replicated thinning and fertilization plots were examined for responses in stem growth, leaf area, and stem growth per unit leaf area. Although measurements occurred 20-30 years after plot installation, substantial effects from the various treatment levels were still present. Thinning reduces leaf area of the stands but increased stem growth per unit of leaf area, resulting in little difference in stem growth per hectare over the 5-year measurement period (1977-1981). Fertilization increased both stand leaf area and stem growth per unit leaf area, and more than doubled 5-year stem growth per hectare, Consideration of the role of leaf area and stem growth per unit leaf area in determining stand treatment responses may account for much of the variation found among replicates of treatments or between studies on different sites. Binkley and Reid 1984. Can. J. For. Res. 14: 656-660.

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Volume sampling using indirectly estimated critical heights

 

Walter Bitterlich

Abstract

A method is described for making practical use of kitamura’s method of estimating volume per hectare as the sum of  “ critical heights” multiplied by the angle count factor (=” basal area factor”), the critical point being defined as the point up each selected tree stem which is exactly covered by the chosed relascope angle (as viewed from the sampling point) in an angle count sample. It is generally too difficult to locate the critical point by actual measurements. Instead, its height is to be obtained from a taper function computed for the species and locality. This function is put in a convenient form, as the “critical height function”, which requires only the breast height diameter in relative units (“ relascope units”) and the total height in meters, to give the critical height of each sample tree in metres. Suitable approximate functions can be derived by computer from data already recorded, or from data specially collected, for example by using the new Telerelaskop. A pocket programmable computer can the be used, with the appropriate critical height function incorporated in this program, and with data easily obtained using a “wide scale” Relaskop (or even with calipers, tape and any kind of “hypsometer” or clinometers) to compute the critical heights, and hence the volume per hectare. It is further shown that the data collected give very simple methods for computing various weighted stand indices. Viz. Lorey’s stand height, stand form height, and stand form factor. The individual critical heights can also be sued as “volume weightings” to allocate total volume estimates to assortments, quality classes, etc. The weightings can also be sued when testing or correcting the local critical height functions themselves, so that the system is capable of continuous refinement. Commonw. Bitterlich 1976. For. Rev. 55: 319-334.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Estimating limiting foliar biomass in conifer plantations from allometric relationships and self-thinning behavior


John Blake, Greg Somers

Auburn Univ, Sch Forestry,108 M White Smith Hall,Auburn,Al 36849 Auburn Univ, Agr Expt Stn,Auburn,Al 36849
Greg Ruark  

US Forest Serv, Soils Product Res,Res Triangle Pk,NC

   
Abstract
The ability of forest stands to sustain increasing amounts of foliage biomass is related in a positive manner to both aboveground woody biomass and to site productivity. Knowledge of the limit to sustainable foliar biomass at a given level of photosynthetically active radiation and under minimum environmental stress would have important implications for modeling primary forest productivity. Theoretical analysis and limited experimental data collected on even-aged plant populations that are undergoing self-thinning indicate that total stand foliar biomass should achieve a nearly constant value for a given species and site. Average diameter-plant density relations for various conifers species coupled with available foliage mass-stem diameter equations were used to approximate the maximum amount of foliage which could be sustained. Source of bias and effects due to changes in specific leaf area are evaluated. The maximum foliage biomass calculated in this manner was subject to positive bias, but estimates at low densities correspond to values obtained empirically for mature stands growing under very favorable environmental conditions. Calculated estimates suggest that maximum sustainable foliage biomass increases slightly with decreasing plant density along the self-thinning line, in contrast to expectations. The magnitude of the increase depends upon the relative value of the self-thinning exponent compared to the exponent of the allometric equation. Changes in light distribution in relation to crown architecture, particularly crown depth and foliage clustering, may account for this effect. Blacke, Somers et al. 1991. For. Sci. 37: 296-307. 

Author Keywords
loblolly pine, radiata pine, Douglas-fir, light, mortality

KeyWords Plus
loblolly-pine, leaf-area, Douglas-fir, rule, stem

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

Models of low temperature and high irradiance and their application to explaining the risk of seedling mortality


Kristina Blennow

Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 49, SE-230 53 Alnarp, Sweden

Lars Lindkvist

County Forestry Board West Sweden, Environmental Unit, Box 343, SE-503 11 Bora s, Sweden

 


Abstract
Low temperature during the growing season is known to be a leading cause of stress and damage to tree seedlings and interactive effects with high irradiance have been recognised as enhancing the damage. Spatial variation in low temperature and irradiance for mountainous terrain was, therefore, hypothesised to give rise to spatially variable potential for regeneration of tree seedlings and expansion of forest. Combined exposure to low temperature and high irradiance appears most likely on clear mornings following frosty nights. Geographic information system-based models of the spatial variation in minimum air temperature over clear-felled terrain and potentially intercepted direct radiation energy were constructed and were used together with measured values of minimum air temperature to explain observed spatial variation in mortality rates for planted tree seedlings in central Sweden. A local-scale multiple regression model explained 78% of the measured spatial variability in minimum air temperature over 625 km(2) and a corresponding, but univariate, microscale model explained 54% of the measured spatial variation in minimum air temperature over 4 ha. Multiple logistic regression models for the mortality rates of seedlings showed there was no significant effect of potentially intercepted amounts of direct radiation energy during the morning for either scale. There was, however, a significant effect (p<0.0001) of measured minimum air temperature on seedling mortality rates for the microscale study, but no corresponding significant effect for the local-scale study. This confirms that low temperature is an important determinant for seedling mortality. It is likely that other factors than low temperature may be important. However, our results indicate that effects of local-scale variability in minimum air temperature, represented by the minimum air temperature at standard height above the ground (1.8 m), may be over-shadowed by minimum air temperature variability at seedling height in complex terrain. This has implications for the use of standard meteorological data for studies into the responses of plants to abiotic factors. Blennow and Lindkvist 2000. For. Ecol. Manage. 135: 289-301.

 

Author Keywords
seedling mortality, minimum air temperature, photoinhibition, light stress, logistic regression, solar radiation, regeneration, risk map, frost damage, frost

KeyWords Plus
cold-induced photoinhibition, frost damage, snow gum, photosynthesis, elevation, forests, spruce, field, line, GIS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Riparian management practices---a summary of state guidelines

 

Charles R. Blinn, Michael A. Kilgore

Forest Management, University of Minnesota, 1530 Cleveland Avenue North, St. Paul, MN 55108;

 

 

Abstract

Individual states develop guidelines to protect and manage forest riparian resources. A review of 49 states’ forest riparian guidelines revealed the primary focus is to protect the quality of water adjacent to perennial and intermittent streams and lakes. A commonly recommended riparian management zone is 50 feet wide with 50 to 75 percent crown closure (or 50–75 square feet per acre of residual basal area); however, the specific guidelines in each state vary tremendously. Although science cannot specify the management prescriptions needed to protect all riparian functions across all sites, understanding site-specific conditions is critical to effective guideline implementation. Blinn and Kilgore 2001. J. For. 99: 11-17.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

A lognormal approach to diameter distributions in even-aged stands

 

Bliss CI, Reinkier KA

The Conneticut Agric. Expt. Sta. And Dept. of  Statistics, Yale University, New Haven Conn. USA  

Abstract

Diameter distributions of Douglas-fir can be described by the empirical three-parameter lognormal curve, in which the variate is y=log(y`+y0`). Following a description of both a graphic and a numerical solution for the origin or third parameter y0`, the logarithm of the origin is shown to be a linear function of the logarithm of the initial mean dbh (y`) in a series of 16 distributions. Given the predicted origins y0`, the means and standard deviations of y=log(y`+y0`) are simple function of log y`, Agreement between the observed and the expected frequencies is tested by x2. Bliss and Reinkier. 1964. For. Sci. 10: 350-360.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Living stands and dead wood in the Bialowieza forest: suggestions for restoration management


Andrzej Bobiec

Bialowieza National Park, Park Palacowy 5, 17-230 bialowieza, Poland


Abstract
The Bialowieza Primeval Forest (BPF) is the only forest area in temperate Europe where forest communities have developed a natural stand structure and a natural distribution of coarse woody debris ((CWD) = standing dead trees (SDT) + down woody material (DWM)). Stand and dead wood characteristics are influenced by ancient and recent historical factors and current processes, such as fires, competitive exclusion, storms, insect outbreaks, and forest management. The aim of the present study was to relate CWD to stand characteristics in mesic deciduous forest (Tilio-Carpinetum JQ) and riparian forest (Circaeo-Alnetum (CA)). Direct comparison of managed forest to protected forest provides information about the impact of the forestry practices on TC stand and CWD characteristics. Approximately two-fold larger volume of trees was found in the Bialowieza National Park (BNP) TC stands (from 336 to 555 m(3) ha(-1)) than in the commercial forest ((CF), from 239 to 279 m(3) ha(-1)). Irregular distribution of "legacy trees" (DBH > 90 cm) accounted for most of the variability among the TC BNP stands. Even stronger differences within TC stands were revealed among the various developmental phases (from 147 m(3) ha(-1) in degradation phase to 630 m(3) ha(-1) in biostatic-optimal phase). Difference in rate of stand development was responsible for the variability of tree volume within CA (338 m3 ha-1 in early succession stand versus 634 m(3) ha(-1) in close-to-climax stand). CWD (mostly DWM) contributed about one-quarter of the total above ground wood biomass in BNP TC and CA ecosystems, ranging from 87 to 160 m(3) ha(-1). Higher relative abundance of spruce in DWM than in living stand volume and more spruce in old debris than in fresh debris suggests that the end of the spruce mortality wave was imminent. As a consequence, structural and dynamic changes in favour of smaller regeneration units are expected. A mere vestige of CWD was found in the CF ecosystem. Both stand and CWD data show a negative impact of former management on the forest ecosystems. In conclusion, special measures aimed at the restoration of ecological capacity of forest communities, including legacy retention and management for decadence, have been recommended. There is an urgent need for complementary studies to supply information necessary for successful adaptive management of the Bialowieza Primeval Forest. Bobiec 2002. For. Ecol. Manage. 165: 125-140.

 

 

Author Keywords
Bialowieza Primeval Forest, coarse woody debris, developmental phases, forest dynamics, forest management, legacy trees, restoration management

KeyWords Plus
dynamics, debris, conservation, biodiversity, Newfoundland, disturbance, ecosystems, age

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

Kriging and thin plate splines for mapping climate variables  

Eric P J Boer, Kirsten M de Beurs

Wageningen University and Research Center, Mathematical and Statistical Models Group, Dreyenlaan 4, 6703 HA Wageningen, The Netherlands

A Dewi Hartkamp

Natural Resources Group, International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), Lisboa 27, Apartado Postal 6-641, 06600 Mexico D.F., Mexico

 

Abstract

Four forms of kriging and three forms of thin plate splines are discussed in this paper to predict monthly maximum temperature and monthly mean precipitation in Jalisco State of Mexico. Results show that techniques using elevation as additional information improve the prediction results considerably. From these techniques, trivariate regression-kriging and trivariate thin plate splines performed best. The results of monthly maximum temperature are much clearer than the results of monthly mean precipitation, because the modeling of precipitation is more trouble some due to higher variability in the data and their non-Gaussian character. Boer, de Beurs et al. 2001. JAG. 3: 146-154.

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Spatial patterns of inorganic N, P availability, and organic C in relation to soil disturbance: a chronosequence analysis


Ralph E.J. Boerner, Amy J. Scherzer, Jennifer A. Brinkman

Department of Plant Biology, Ohio State University, 1735 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210 USA


Abstract
This study quantified intersite variation and spatial pattern in organic C content, total inorganic N and extractable inorganic P in soils among six sites constituting a post-disturbance chronosequence in southwestern Ohio, USA. The study sites included an agricultural field with a 25 + yr history of soybean cropping (chronic disturbance), a site which had been stripped of its surface soil and reclaimed using post-mining procedures (pseudo-stripmine, acute disturbance), 5 and 10 year old fields, a 25-30 year old prairie restoration, and an undisturbed, mature forest. All six sites were on soils with similar texture and classification. With the exception of the active soybean field, P and organic C increased with time since disturbance. Inorganic N was high in the soybean field and mature forest and low in the other four sites, with no consistent temporal trend. Spatial dependence of inorganic N and organic C were high in most sites and decreased with time since disturbance. Spatial dependence of P was lower than those of inorganic N and organic C and did not exhibit any clear temporal trend. Each nutrient exhibited its own unique spatial and temporal pattern of variation, and correlations among resources were weak. The results emphasize the need for quantifying and understanding spatial patterns as a prerequisite for developing restoration planting protocols or operationalizing mechanistic models predicting vegetation change in specific study sites. Boerner, Scherzer et al. 1998.  Appl. Soil Ecol. 7: 159-177. 

Author Keywords
nitrogen, phosphorus, organic carbon, reclamation, semivariance analysis, spatial pattern, succession

KeyWords Plus
forest, geostatistics, mycorrhizal, variability, ecology, plants, long

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GSLIB-style programs for discriminant analysis and regionalized classification


Geoffrey C. Bohling

Kansas Geological Survey, 1930 Constant Avenue, Campus West, Lawrence, KS 66047-3726

 


Abstract
Discriminant analysis is a statistical technique used to predict the group membership of a set of multivariate observations, each of which is assumed to arise from one of a set of distinct classes or groups. Each group is characterized by a certain distribution in multivariate space, and group allocations are based on the similarity of each sample to each group. Assuming multivariate normality, generalized distance measures based on the squared Mahalanobis distance from each sample to each group centroid arise as the natural measure of similarity. One can allocate samples to groups either on the basis of minimum generalized distance or, equivalently, maximum posterior probability of group membership. In earth science applications samples are often associated with geographic locations. In this situation regionalized classification can be used to produce a map representing group membership throughout the sampled domain. This can be accomplished by interpolating either generalized distances or membership probabilities from sample locations to regularly spaced grid nodes and comparing resulting grids to produce a classification map. This paper presents a set of GSLIB-style FORTRAN programs for performing discriminant analysis and regionalized classification. The program disco performs discriminant analysis and the programs xmd2cls and prb2cls combine interpolated distances and probabilities, respectively, to create a grid of predicted classifications. In addition, the utility program colbind allows the user to combine selected columns from different GSLIB-style data files into one file. Bohling 1997. Comput. Geosci. 23: 739-761.

 

Author Keywords
discriminant analysis, regionalized classification, geostatistics, FORTRAN

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

Forest productivity, leaf area, and terrain in southern Appalachian deciduous forests


Paul V. Bolstad

Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota, 1530 Cleveland Ave. N., St. Paul, MN 55108

 

James M. Vose

Coweeta Hydrologic Lab, USDA Forest Service, 3160 Coweeta Lab Rd., Otto, North Carolina 28763.

 

Steven G. McNulty

Southern Forest Experiment Station, USDA Forest Service, 1509 Varsity Dr., Raleigh, NC 27606.

 

 


Abstract
Leaf area index (LAI) is an important structural characteristic of forest ecosystems which has been shown to be strongly related to forest mass and energy cycles and forest productivity. LAI is more easily measured than forest productivity, and so a strong relationship between LAI and productivity would be a valuable tool in forest management. While a linear relationship has been observed between LAI and forest productivity, most of these data have been collected in needle-leaved evergreen stands. The generality and consistency of the relationship between LAI and productivity has not been as well established for deciduous forests.

 

Leaf area index (LAI) and aboveground net primary production (ANPP) were measured on 16 forest stands in the southern Appalachian Mountains. These stands span a range of elevation, slope position, temperature, and moisture regimes. LAI averaged 5.8 m(2) m(-2) and ranged from 2.7 to 8.2. ANPP averaged 9.2 Mg ha(-1) yr(-1) and ranged from 5.2 to 11.8 Mg ha(-1) yr(-1).

 

LAI and ANPP decreased significantly from cove to ridge sites, and ANPP decreases significantly from low to high elevation (P < 0.05, linear regression slope). Elevation-related differences in ANPP do not appear to be due to changes in precipitation, leaf nitrogen content, or site N mineralization rates.

 

Linear ANPP-LAI equations fit to the data measured in this study were significant (P < 0.05). These relationships were not significantly different (P > 0.1) from linear relationships based on data reported in most other studies of ANPP and LAI in eastern deciduous forests of North America. However, the slope of a linear regression model based on North American eastern deciduous forests was significantly different (P < 0.05) from one based on data collected in temperate deciduous forests for the rest of the globe. The differences were slight over the range of observed data, however, and the difference may be due to a narrower range of data for North American deciduous forests. Bolstad, Vose et al. 2001. For. Sci. 47: 419-427.

 

Author Keywords
ANPP, LAI, precipitation, temperature, elevation

KeyWords Plus
net primary production, oak forest, biomass, nitrogen, index, soil, wisconsin, carbon, ecosystems, allocation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

Measured and predicted air temperatures at basin to regional scales in the southern Appalachian mountains


Paul V. Bolstad

Forest Resources, University of Minnesota, 1530 N. Cleveland Ave, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA

Lloyd Swift

Coweeta Hydrologic Lab, US Forest Service, Otto, NC 28763, USA

Fred Collins

Resource Management and Distributed Systems, IBM, Boulder, CO 80301, USA

Jacques Regniere

Natural Resources Canada, P.O. Box 3800, Sainte-Foy Que, Canada G1V 4C7

 


Abstract
Landscape and temporal patterns of temperature were observed for local (13 station) and regional (35 station) networks in the southern Appalachian Mountains of North America. Temperatures decreased with altitude at mean rates of 7 degrees C/km (maximum temperature) and 3 degrees C/km (minimum temperature). Daily lapse rates depended on the method and stations used in the calculations. Average daily temperature ranges decreased as elevation increased, from 14 degrees C at 700 m to 7 degrees C at 1440 m, and daily temperature ranges were typically higher in spring and fall at any given station. Daily maximum temperatures above the forest canopy averaged 1.4 degrees C higher at a south-facing station relative to a comparable northwest-facing station, and above-canopy daily minimum temperatures were depressed at a valley-bottom station. Regional regression models provided a more accurate estimates of station temperature than either kriging or local lapse models when tested using 35 National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) stations in the southern Appalachians. Data-splitting tests yielded mean absolute errors (MAE) from 1.39 to 2.30 degrees C for predictions of daily temperatures. Ten-year biases for an independent data set collected at four stations in the Coweeta Basin ranged from -2.87 to 2.91 degrees C for daily temperatures, with regional regression performing best, on average. However tests against another independent data set indicate regional regression and local lapse models were not significantly different, with mean biases averaged from -2.78 to 2.91 degrees C for daily predicted temperatures. Bolstad, Swift et al. 1998. For. Meterorolgy. 91: 161-176. 

KeyWords Plus
gypsy-moth lepidoptera, climate-change, model, evapotranspiration, photosynthesis, simulation, management, phenology, events, soil

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Projecting stand and stock tables: a comparison of three methods

 

Bruce . E. Borders

School of Forest Resources, University o f Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA

Abstract

Often, it is desired to project an existing stand and stock table to a future age in even-aged stands. There are several alternative procedures available to modelers to accomplish this goal. Below, I compare and contrast three such procedures for projecting stand and stock tables for loblolly pine (pinus taeda L.) plantations grown in the southeastern United States. One procedure is a Weibull parameter recovery model, another is a distribution free percentile-based algorithm, and the third uses an individual tree distance independent basal area projection model.

 

Each projection procedure was fitted to a large loblolly pine database. Statistics of fit for the fitted database and an independent database were generated for number of trees by diameter class, volume by diameter class, and volume by product class. The procedure based on the individual tree distance independent basal area projection model was superior to the other tow modeling procedures for mode of the fit statistics.

Keywords:

Growth and yield, stand table projection

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Systems of equations in forest stand modeling

 

Bruce E. Borders

School of Forest Resources, University o f Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA

Abstract

Growth and yield models are often composed of systems of related equations. Parameter estimation techniques such as two-stage and three-stage least squares have been suggested for fitting such systems. An alternative theoretically sound parameter estimation procedure that can be sued for any number of sequentially related equation, linear and nonlinear, is presented and discussed. Implementation of this procedure is illustrated for two systems of equations. Borders 1989. For. Sci. 35: 548-556.

 

Additional key words

Instrumental variables, Zellner estimation, multistage regression

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diameter-based biomass regression models ignore large sapwood-related variation in Sitka spruce

 

B. T. Bormann

USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station, 3200 Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331, U.S.A.

Abstract

Precise estimates of biomass are needed in productivity and nutrient cycling studies, and for improved estimates of potential productivity. Improvements in prediction of foliage and branch biomass were sought by comparing multiple regression models using stem diameter, sapwood radial thickness, and tree height as independent variables in stands of Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr.) in southeast Alaska. Five sites were sampled by stratifying trees into four diameter and three sapwood-thickness classes. Within stands, sample trees with thick sapwood consistently had 2-3 times more foliage and branch biomass than paired trees with thin sapwood but nearly equal diameter. Inclusion of both diameter and sapwood thickness in equations increased precision of foliage and branch biomass, leaf area, and net primary productivity by 15-31% and reduced standard error by 35-48% when compared with equations containing only diameter as an independent variable. Height growth over the last 30 years of intermediate and codominant trees with thick sapwood was 12-27% greater than that of paired trees with thin sapwood but nearly equal diameter at breast height. The addition of total tree height to multiple regression models, however, had little effect on their precision. Stem biomass equations were not improved by including tree height or sapwood thickness. The use of a diameter - sapwood thickness sampling matrix for construction of biomass equations may reduce the sample size needed and result in equations with wider application. Bormann 1990. Can. J. For. Res. 20: 1098-1104.

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maximizing information from a water quality monitoring network through visualization techniques


Boyer JN, Sterling P, Jones RD

Southeast Environmental Research  Center, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, U.S.A.


 


Abstract
This paper describes a variety of visualization techniques that have been very useful for demonstrating important aspects of a water quality monitoring programme in South Florida. The first level of visualization was at the single station or grouped stations using the box-and-whisker plot as a graphical/statistical tool. This plot was used to compare intra-annual variability and correlation between total phosphorus (TP) and chlorophyll a (chl a) at a site in Florida Bay. Secondly, time was added as a dimension to produce a 9-year, monthly time series plot of declining salinity at a site in NE Florida Bay. It was shown how a centred moving average could be used to smooth out the noise and disclose inter-annual oscillations. Time series of anomalies from long term means were discussed as a means of displaying correspondence and coupling among variables. Thirdly, the utility of 2-D contour maps of variables was demonstrated in showing sources and mixing of fresh water across the hydroscape as well as nutrient loading to the South Florida ecosystem. From this expanded spatial view, it was observed that the water quality of different bays and coastal areas are differentially affected both by external and internal processes and how management of pump operations and canal conductance can overwhelm the natural hydrological cycle and have far reaching impacts in Florida Bay and the SW Florida Shelf. We also showed that contouring was useful for elucidating causal relationships among variables over the spatial domain. Time step animations of monthly salinity contours in Florida Bay showed the importance of mixing with western boundary waters to alleviation of hypersaline conditions. These animations also showed that it is the shifting lags between TP concentration and chi a which make it so difficult to derive a simple regression model. Finally, a 3-D volumetric rendering of the area between Key West and the Tortugas was used to describe a strong density stratification event during July 1998 and to visualize the source of water masses and general circulation patterns in this region. It is concluded that visualization techniques are useful not only to show patterns in the data but in developing new hypotheses for future research and monitoring activities.  Boyer, Sterling et al. 2000. Estuar. Coast. Shelf Sci. 50: 39-48.

Author Keywords:
water quality, estuary, geostatistics, salinity, nutrients, chlorophyll, Florida Bay, coral reef, management

KeyWords Plus
florida-bay, keys

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Variations in height-over-age-curves for young longleaf pine plantations

 

William D. Boyer

George W. Andrews Forestry Sciences Laboratory, Auburn, Alabama, maintained by the Southern Forest Experiment Station, USDA Forest Service, in cooperation with Auburn University  

Abstract

Some environmental factors related to height growth of longleaf pine (Pinus Plaustris Mill.)  plantations were identified by analyses of data from remeasured plots. A total of 660 plots, mostly from the South wide Pine Seed Source Study, provided 2,737 height-over-age observations from age 3 thought ages 15 or 20 to 22. A single variable equation derived from all observations, Log10 (Height)=b0+b1(Age)-1, was fitted to each plot. Slope coefficient (b0) from individual plots became the dependent variable for analyses to determine association of height growth patterns with recorded site and stand variables, Seventy percent of slope coefficient variation among 32 seed-source plantings was accounted for by classification of planting site into (1) old fields (2) mechanically prepared cutover sites, and (2) unprepared cutover sites. Among plots, coefficient values were significantly related to stand density, site quality, and seed source. Results indicate the need for a series of polymorphic plantation site-index curves, or growth models, that take into account important site-specific variables affecting early height growth. Boyer 1983. For. Sci. 29: 15-27.

 

Additional key words

Pinus plaustris, site index, site quality, stand density, site preparation, height growth

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Interim site index curves for longleaf pine plantations

 

William D. Boyer

George W. Andrews Forestry Sciences Laboratory, Auburn, Alabama, maintained by the Southern Forest Experiment Station, USDA Forest Service, in cooperation with Auburn University

 

Abstract

No single set of site-index curves can be uniformly applied to young longleaf pine plantations without a sacrifice in reliability. A recent study using plantation remeasurement data indicated that planting-site condition (old fields and mechanically prepared or unprepared cutover forest sites) has a major impact on early plantation height growth. Stand density (surviving trees per acre) also affected form of height-over-age curves. On both prepared and unprepared forest sites, site quality affected curve form, so polymorphic site-index curves resulted for these two conditions. Longleaf pine plantation site-index curves for these three planting-site conditions were derived from 660 plots remeasured through ages 15 to 17 or 20 to 22 years. Modification of the curves may be necessary as more data become available. Boyer 1980. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. SO-261. 5p.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Site and stand factors affecting height growth curves of longleaf pine plantations

 

William D. Boyer

George W. Andrews Forestry Sciences Laboratory, Auburn, Alabama, maintained by the Southern Forest Experiment Station, USDA Forest Service, in cooperation with Auburn University

Abstract

Some factors related to the form of height-over-age curves in longleaf pine plantations were identified from analyses of 660 periodically remeasured plots. Seventy percent of the variation among 32 plantations in form the growth curve was accounted for by stratifying planting sites into old fields, mechanically prepared and unprepared cutover sites. Curve form was affected by site quality on prepared and unprepared site, and by stand density on all sites. Boyer 1980. P.184-187. Proc. First Biennial south. silv. res. Conf., 1980.

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Influence of spacing on growth of red pine in plantations

 

Bramble, W.C., H.N. Cope, H.H. Chisman

Abstract

The spacing a t which trees are planted appears to be one of the more important factors influencing their early growth rate and development. Although the general nature of the effects of various spacing is fairly well understood, the magnitude of those effects is not. For example, although too wide spacing is commonly conceded to lead to an excessively tapered bole, large branches, and slow natural pruning, it is not known just how far one may go towards providing maximum growing space and still get acceptable form and quality of product in many of our commonly planted species. Bramble, Cope et al. J. For. 47: 726-732.

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

Competition-induced changes in developmental features of planted Douglas-fir in British Columbia

David G. Brand

Petawawa National Forestry Institute, Chalk River, Ont., Canada KOJ 1J0

 

Abstract

To provide a method of quantifying brush competition in coastal Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga rnenziesii (Mirb.) Franco) plantations, data from 124 planted trees, 1-5 years old, were used to derive a competition index for predicting changes in tree vigor measured as a relative production rate. The index, including measures of brush proximity, relative height, and percent ground cover, appears to act as a measure of light interception around the tree crown. Tree vigor was found to be largely a function of the age of the tree from planting and the competition index r2 = 0.71). Foliage-based measures of growth vigor were more strongly related to the index than basal area or height measures. The index has potential for assessing interspecific competition problems in young Douglas-fir plantations. Brand 1986. Can. J. For. Res. 16: 191-196.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coniferous afforestation leads to soil acidification in central Ontario

David G. Brand

Petawawa National Forestry Institute, Chalk River, Ont., Canada K0J 1J0

Paul Kehoe

Ministry of Natural Resources, Timber Sales Branch Mensuration Unit, Whitney Block, Queen’s Park, Toronto, Ont. Canada M7A 1N3

Maureen Connors

154 Drayton Avenue, Toronto, Ont., Canada M4C 3M2

Abstract

The soil pH under 20 coniferous plantations on abandoned farmland at the Petawawa National Forestry Institute was remeasured after 46 years and showed a significant decrease. Soils under white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) showed the greatest degree of acidification, with the average pH in 13 plantations decreasing by 1.28. Brand, Kehoe et al. 1986. Can. J. For. Res. 16: 1389-1391.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Standards of regeneration establishment in Canada: a case study for Douglas-fir  

David G. Brand

Pelawawa National Forestry Institute, Chalk River, Ontario KOJ 1JO

 

G.F. Weetman

Faculty of Forestry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver. BC V6T 1W5

 

Abstract

Most stresses and hazards affecting plantation success occur during the initial establishment period. Ensuring that new stands are fully stocked with commercial species, growing acceptably, and not likely to be suppressed by brush or damaged by insects and animals, are the goals of regeneration silviculture. To focus silvicultural efforts, the concept of the free to grow plantation has evolved. This paper discusses proposed criteria for setting quantifiable, biologically based free-to-grow standards. A case study using Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) France) illustrates how free-to-grow standards could be developed. The process first requires identification of the factor or stress limiting growth. Then, free-to growth standards are based on defining a threshold level of the factor for successful tree establishment and applying a projection technique to estimate whether the trees currently below the threshold are in danger of exceeding it. Brand and Weetman 1986. For. Chron. 62: 84-90.

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

A competition index for predicting the vigour of planted Douglas-fir in southwestern British Columbia

 

 Brand, D.G.  

Pelawawa National Forestry Institute, Chalk River, Ontario K0J 1J0

Abstract

To provide a method of quantifying brush competition in coastal Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga rnenziesii (Mirb.) Franco) plantations, data from 124 planted trees, 1-5 years old, were used to derive a competition index for predicting changes in tree vigour measured as a relative production rate. The index,  including measures of brush proximity, relative height, and percent ground cover, appears to act as a measure of light interception around the tree crown. Tree vigour was found to be largely a function of the age of the tree from planting and the competition index r2= 0.71). Foliage-based measures of growth vigour were more strongly related to the index than basal area or height measures. The index has potential for assessing interspecific competition problems in young Douglas-fir plantations. Brand 1986. Can. J. For. Res. 16: 23-29.

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A competition index for predicting the vigour of planted Douglas-fir in southwestern British Columbia

 

David G. Brand

Pelawawa National Forestry Institute, Chalk River, Ontario K0­­J 1JO

 

Gordon F. Weetman, Paul Rehsler

University of British Columbia, Faculty of Forestry, Vancouver, BC V6T 1W5, Canada

   

Abstract

Formulation for plant growth analysis, called the relative production rate, is proposed for use in the study of perennial plants. The new measure and its yield components are similar to current growth analysis, but use the annual increment of growth rather than total accumulated growth, as the basis for assessing performance. The relative production rate removes accumulated past growth of the perennating structure, a major determinant of relative growth rate, and acts independently of tree site as a measure of the vigour of growth. The multiplicative yield components of this relative production rate also provide better insight into the current morphological and physiological features of the tree than the standard growth analysis formulations. Examples are given using Douglas-fir (Pseudoaugu menziesii (Mirb.) France) and red pine (Pinus resinosa Ait.) plantations to illustrate the methodology proposed. Brand, Weetman et al. 1986. Can. J. For. Res. 16: 23-29.  

Key words

Pseudorsuga menziesii (Mirb.) France, Pinus resinosa Ait., Douglas-fir, red pine, growth, relative production rate, tree development, competition.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

Users need performance information to evaluate models

 

Gary J. Brand, Margaret R. Holdaway

North Central Forest Experiment Station, USDA Forest Service, St. Paul, Minnesota 55108  

Abstract

The important criteria for evaluating a forest growth model depend on the model’s use. Consequently the potential use rather than the developer should determine acceptability, particularly when the model can serve multiple purposes. To help the user, the developer should present quantitative information about the model’s performance under a variety of forest conditions. Brand and Hodaway 1983. J. For. 81: 235-237.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

A Forestry Application of Schnute's Generalized Growth Function

 

Brian V . Bredenkamp  

Saasveld Forestry Research Centre, Private Bag X6515, 6530 George, South Africa  

Timothy G. Gregoire

School of Forestry and Wildlife Resources, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061.

 

Abstract

A case is presented where the Chapman-Richards growth function is suitable to describe growth for a certain period during the life of a stand of Eucalyptus grandis in South Africa. Toward the end of that period, diameter growth exhibited strong asymptotic properties. After marked competition mortality, the stand resumed growth beyond what had appeared to be an asymptotic level and the Chapman-Richards function could no longer be satisfactorily fitted. A generalized growth function developed by Schnute successfully tracked this renewed growth. The parametric relationships between the two models are established. Bredenkamp and Gregoire 1988. For. Sci. 34: 790-797.

 

Additional keywords

Chapman-Richards growth function, Eucalyptus grandis. C.C.T., stand density effects.

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

An approach to density measurement in Douglas-fir  

Philip A. Briegleb

Pacific Northwest Forest and Range Experiment Station, Portland, OR

 

Abstract

Most American yield tables are based on natural stands that have always been dense or overdense.  Most European yield tables are based on stands that were dense at establishment and were given the benefit of frequent thinnings staring at a early age. Neither of these patterns of stand history applies or is likely to apply of many years to most young stands in the Douglas-fir region. The author proposes an approach to density measurement applicable to stands having highly variable histories. The basica data are taken from intensively managed. Douglas-fir in Denmark and Russia and from both thinned and natural stands in the Douglas-fir region of western Washington, Some of the relationships found any apply in principle to other species growing in even-age stands. Briegleb 1952. J. For. 50: 529-536.

 

 

   

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spatial patterns of inorganic N, P availability, and organic C in relation to soil disturbance: A chronosequence analysis


Ralph E. J. Boerner, Amy J.  Scherzer, Jennifer A. Zrinkman

Department of Plant Biology, Ohio State University, 1735 Neil Avenue, Columbus OH 43210 USA

 


Abstract
This study quantified intersite variation and spatial pattern in organic C content, total inorganic N and extractable inorganic P in soils among six sites constituting a post-disturbance chronosequence in southwestern Ohio, USA. The study sites included an agricultural field with a 25 + yr history of soybean cropping (chronic disturbance), a site which had been stripped of its surface soil and reclaimed using post-mining procedures (pseudo-stripmine, acute disturbance), 5 and 10 year old fields, a 25-30 year old prairie restoration, and an undisturbed, mature forest. All six sites were on soils with similar texture and classification. With the exception of the active soybean field, P and organic C increased with time since disturbance. Inorganic N was high in the soybean field and mature forest and low in the other four sites, with no consistent temporal trend. Spatial dependence of inorganic N and organic C were high in most sites and decreased with time since disturbance. Spatial dependence of P was lower than those of inorganic N and organic C and did not exhibit any clear temporal trend. Each nutrient exhibited its own unique spatial and temporal pattern of variation, and correlations among resources were weak. The results emphasize the need for quantifying and understanding spatial patterns as a prerequisite for developing restoration planting protocols or operationalizing mechanistic models predicting vegetation change in specific study sites. Boerner, Schrezer et al. 1998.  Appl. Soil Ecol. 7: 159-177. 1998

 

Author Keywords
nitrogen, phosphorus, organic carbon, reclamation, semivariance analysis, spatial pattern, succession

KeyWords Plus
forest, geostatistics, mycorrhizal, variability, ecology, plants, long

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effects of nitrogen fertilizer source and application rates on foliar nitrogen concentration, photosynthesis and growth of Douglas fir

 

H Brix

Environment Canada, Canadian Forestry Service, Pacific Forest Research Centre, 506 West Brunside Road, Victoria, BC, Canada V8Z 1M5

Abstract

The effects of nitrogen fertilization on foliage nitrogen concentration, rates of photosynthesis, and stem diameter growth were studied for Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga Mensiesii (Mirb.) Franco) trees, with a range of fertilizer applications from 0 to 896 kg N/ha. Ammonium nitrate (AN) and urea were compared as nitrogen sources. AN provided for a higher foliage nitrogen concentration and better growth the 1st year, but there was no source effect thereafter.  A significant relationship was obtained between foliage nitrogen concentration and rate of photosynthesis, with an optimum rate at 1.74% foliar nitrogen and with no effect of nitrogen source. Stem diameter growth was increased at all fertilization rate, although no effect of the two lowest rates of fertilization (112 and 224 kg N/ha) was found on foliar nitrogen concentration.  Brix 1981. Can. J. For. Res. 11: 775-780. 1981.

 

 

   

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Analysis of economic impacts on thinning and rotation for Douglas-fir, using dynamic programming

 

 

J. Douglas Brodie, Darius M. Adams, Chioang Kao

Department of Forest Management, School of Forestry, Oregon State University, Corvaliis or 97331

 

Abstract

Impacts of regeneration cost, initial stocking level, site, quality premiums, and variable logging costs on thinning and rotation are derived with a forward-recursion dynamic programming algorithm. The relative efficiency and information provided in intermediate solutions is compared to previously used backward recursions. A resolution if offered of an earlier controversy regarding the form of dynamic programming algorithm and validity of results in studies of thinning and rotation. Brodie, Adams et al. 1978. For. Sci. 24: 513-522. 1978.

 

Additional key words

Optimization, regeneration cost analysis, quality premium, economic cost of reduced stocking

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

Optimizing thinning in Douglas-fir with three-descriptor dynamic programming to account for accelerated diameter growth

 

J. Douglas Brodie, Chiang Kao

Department of Forest Management, School of Forestry, Oregon State University, Corvallis or 97331

 

 

Abstract

Accelerated diameter growth as a result of thinning must be incorporated into dynamic programming analysis to account for reduced logging cost and increased income as the size of harvested material increases. A three state-descriptor model is necessary to do this, but a three-descriptor formulation encounters problems of rounding, storage, and computational efficiency.  Techniques for overcoming these problems are outlined and applied in representative demonstrations of the model. Brodie and Kao 1979. For. Sci. 25: 665-672. 1979.

 

Additional key words

Pseudofsrosa menziesii, logging cost premium, quality premium, economics.

rotation.

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

A geostatistical study of soil data from an irrigated vineyard near waikerie, south Australia


Brooker PI, Winchester JP

Department of Geology and Geophysics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005

 Adams AC

S.A. Department of Primary Industries, Loxto Research Center, Loxton, South Australia 5333


Abstract
Effective supply of water for irrigation requires that the capacity of the soil to hold water be measured. Field measurement of the depth and texture of each soil layer in a profile allows calculation of the readily available water for the site. The spatial variation of readily available water is characterized by its semivariogram, calculated over the property under study, This function is used in a geostatistical analysis to determine the average value of the variable over areas watered by opening irrigation valves. The accuracy of such estimates is also provided in the geostatistical procedure of kriging. A case study applied to an existing vineyard near Waikerie in South Australia deals with root zone readily available water and depth of topsoil, The property has been sampled with a grid 75 m x 75 m. Irrigation valve areas are typically 1.3 ha. A 50% reduction in confidence intervals for the estimates occurs when the valve areas are estimated by kriging compared with those obtained using a simple average of the samples contained within the area. Of interest is the anisotropy seen in the semivariograms. Variation in the N-S direction is much more rapid than in the E-W. This factor is currently incorporated into the rectangular design of the irrigation valve areas. It is suggested that it should also influence sampling design. Brooker, Winchester et al. 1995.  Environ. Int. 21: 699-704.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Timber products output and timber harvests in Alaska: projections for 1997-2010

 

David J. Brooks

Forestry  Sciences Laboratory, 3200 S.W. Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331

 Richard W. Haynes

Forestry Sciences Laboratory, P.O. Box 3890, Portland, OR 97208.

 

Abstract

Projections of Alaska timber products output, the derived demand for raw material, and timber harvest by owner are developed from a trend-based analysis. These projections are revisions of projections made in 1990 and again in 1994, and reflect the consequences of recent changes in the Alaska forest sector and long-term trends in markets for Alaska products. With the closure of the two southeast Alaska pulp mills, demand for Alaska National Forest timber now depends on markets for sawn wood and the ability to export manufacturing residues and lower grade logs. Three alternative projections are used to display a range of possible future demand. Areas of uncertainty include the prospect of continuing changes in markets and in conditions faced by competitors and the speed and magnitude in investment in manufacturing in Alaska. The sensitivity of model output to changes in key assumptions is displayed.  

Keywords

National Forest (Alaska), forest sector models, lumber

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spatial structure of light and dipterocarp seedling growth in a tropical secondary forest


Bebber D, Brown N, Speight M, Moura-Costa P, Wai YS

 

   
Abstract
Variation in forest canopy openness influences the growth and survival of seedlings below, and is therefore of practical importance when wishing to restock a forest with valuable timber species after logging. In this study, growth and light environment of dipterocarp seedlings in an enrichment planting project in secondary lowland forest in Borneo were analyzed using geostatistics, in order to determine the spatial relationships between canopy openness and seedling performance, Seedling growth was correlated with canopy openness measures up to 50 m away along planting lines but was uncorrelated across planting lines, because the dense understorey between planting lines blocked lateral light. It is recommended that planting be conducted in patches rather than along lines, so that understorey clearance can allow light from canopy gaps in all directions to reach seedlings. Bebber, Brown et al. 2002. For. Ecol. Manage. 157: 65-75.

 

Author Keywords
geostatistics, enrichment planting, dipterocarpaceae, seedling growth, spatial autocorrelation, canopy openness

KeyWords Plus
lowland rain-forest, solar-radiation, canopies, gap, autocorrelation, understory, sabah, danum

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A system design for tracking the carbon flux from changes in cover, use ,and management of the land  

Sandra Brown

US Environmental Protection Agency Environmental Research Laboratory 200 SW 35th St. Corvallis, OR 97333, USA

Lowell F. Smith

Office of Research and Development, US Environmental Protection Agency Washington, DC 20460  

Abstract

The development of a global, terrestrial C-flux tracking system is motivated by the need of scientists to balance the terrestrial C budget, including estimating the magnitude, precision, and location of C sources and sinks, and how they change over time; and by the needs of policy makers for a sound scientific basis to deal effectively with the socioecono9mic implications of climate change and for negotiations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).  To meet these needs, we propose that a C-flux tracking system should be capable of : measuring changes in cove, us, and management of the land (LC/LU/LM) within nations; accounting for net C gains and losses in ecosystems brought about by past and resent changes in LC/LU/LM, natural disturbance, climate, and atmospheric composition; estimating errors and range in variation of the C flux; scaling up consistently to regions and the globe; auditing for compliance with national and international obligations under the UNFCCC; and tracking the net consequences of policy actions that change the magnitude and direction of C sinks and sources. In this paper, we present a research and development program for producing and testing a system to track the C flux caused by changes in LC/LU/LM only, including a discussion of the key data requirements and their availability, and a series of parallel and sequential tasks to produce C flux estimates and their errors for major countries, test methodology, assess applicability of available data, establish programs to fill crucial data gaps, calibrate and validate remote sensing products, and establish national and international cooperation, We conclude with a discussion as to how such a tracking system could be implemented

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

Use of Profile Equations in Tree Volume Estimation

 

David Bruce, Timothy A. Max

 

Pacific Northwest Research Station, USDA, Forest Service P.O. Box 3890, Portland, Oregon 97208-3890

Abstract

Profile equations are used today for tree volume estimation because they are more flexible in estimating partial stem volumes and are just as accurate for total volume as two other systems.

Profile models have been used for more than 200 years, but recent developments abetted by

electronic computers make them more versatile today. Methods of accounting for variation in form, determining accurate actual volumes, and assuring desirable characteristics of models are described. Stem profile models currently used are discussed as well as anticipated improvements. Bruce and Max 1989. USDA, For. Ser., Pac. Nw. Res. Sta. (Syracuse, Aug 89). 1-8. 1989.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Development of empirical forest growth models

 

David Bruce  

Pacific Northwest Research Station, USDA, Forest Service P.O. Box 3890, Portland, Oregon 97208-3890

Abstract

 

Empirical models predicting periodic growth of trees and forests are based on measurements in the forest at two or more times and are developed without direct reference to the biological processes involved. Process models describing changes in trees and forests may be more complicated than empirical models; although they emphasize processes, those that predict quantities necessarily include some empirical elements. Growth models programmed to run on computers can be listed in order of increasing complexity, both forming progressions of information content and change best uses for the models. A recent growth simulator that adds measures of the effects of nutrient cycling to an empirical model shows promise of increasing versatility without improving reliability of growth estimates under conditions currently measurable. Growth models differ greatly in how they handle competition among trees, and it has been found that competition measures at the stand level often work as well as those at the tree level. Models are evaluated objectively by predicting and observing growth in stands that sample the conditions modeled. Simple empirical models are accurate enough to guide short-term forest management decisions, because prudent managers monitor growth of their stands. Mixed models including both empirical and process elements are likely to be needed to make reliable long-term forecasts and credible growth predictions for large heterogeneous areas or for management conditions that cannot currently be observed.

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

Yield differences between research plots and managed forests  

David Bruce

Pacific Northwest Forest and Range Experiment Station, Portland, Oregon 97232

Abstract

Differences between timber yields on small research plots and on managed forests are due mainly to differences in definition of forested area, in scale and quality control of management treatments, and in uniformity of the stands. In large areas where management has not yet made stands uniform, research results may serve only as general guides to potential growth. The manager who is practicing some degree of intensive forestry can often find research data on which to based accurate estimates of growth and yield. To apply the information, he must exclude unproductive areas from estimates of his acreage, monitor stands for damage, and supervise treatments efficiently. There is however, no single magic number that adjust for differences in growth between research plots and larger managed forests. Bruce 1977. J. For. 75: 14-17. 1977.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

   

 

 

Development of a system of taper and volume tables for red alder

 

David Bruce, Robet O. Curtis, Caryanne Yancoevering

Pacific Northwest  Forest and Range Expt Sta., Forest Service, US. Dept. of Agric., Portland, Oreg.  

Abstract

An estimating equation was derived for red alder ( Alnum rubra Bong.), expressing ratio of squared upper stem d.i.b to squared dbh outside bark as a function of dbh, total height, and the 3/2, 3rd, 32nd, and 40th powers of relative height. This equation formed the basis for a system of tables and equations which  provides estimates of tree volume for various combinations of product units, utilization limits, and size classes of material. The methods used should also be applicable to other species. Bruce, Curtis et al. 1968. For. Sci. 14: 339-350. 1968.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Plot-scale spatial patterns of soil water content, pH, substrate-induced respiration and N mineralization in a temperate coniferous forest


A. Bruckner

University of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Zoology, Gregor-Mendel-Str. 33, A-1180 Vienna,  Austria

E. Kandeler

University of Hohenheim, Institute of Soil Science, Department of Soil Biology, Emil-Wolff-Str. 27, D-70599 Stuttgart, Germany

C. Kampichler

Free University of Berlin, Institute of Zoology, Grunewaldstr. 34, D-12165 Berlin, Germany


Abstract
Samples of two perpendicular transects from an even-aged Norway spruce ( Picea abies) forest were used for geostatistical analysis of forest floor water content (WC), pH, substrate-induced respiration (SIR, a measure of microbial biomass), and N mineralization (Nmin). Nmin data did not fulfill the stationary assumptions of geostatistics and had to be detrended prior to analysis. All variables exhibited spatial structure. The degree of spatial dependence was generally high (60%-95%). pH and SIR were isotropically distributed; WC and Nmin were anisotropic. Three different scales of spatial variability were detected at the site. (1) A fine-scale pattern with ranges < 1 m that was attributed to retarded decomposition, poor chemical and structural diversity of P. abies litter, and lacking bioturbatic activity of earthworms. (2) A mesoscale pattern was indicated by sinoidal periodicity of most variograms, with inflection points every 1.0-1.5 m. This periodicity probably reflected the influence of regularly spaced tree individuals. (3) Nmin and WC exhibited unexplained long-range trends that exceeded transect length. Bruckner, Kandeler et al. 1999. Geoderma. 93: 207-223. 1999.

Author Keywords
spatial distribution, geostatistics, variograms, autocorrelation, decomposition

KeyWords Plus
southwestern british-columbia, individual tree canopies, in-field mesocosms, microbial biomass, spruce forest, faunal complexity, heterogeneity, litter, canada, nitrification

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

A Markov chain approach to the prediction of diameter distributions in uneven-aged forest stands

 

Harold D. Bruner

Weyerhaeuser Company. Mounruin Pine, Arkansas 71956

John W. Moser, Jr.

Department of Forestry and Conservation. Purdue University, Wess Lafoyefte. Indiana 47907  

Abstract

A simple stochastic model to predict future diameter distributions,  number of survivor trees, number of mortality trees, and number of harvested trees is developed from conventional continuous forest inventory data over two measurement periods. The length of the prediction period is limited to multiples of the remeasurement period. Data used to construct the model and test its predictive ability came from 19 consecutive years of C.F.I. measurements collected in Washington County, Wisconsin. Results indicate that number of survivor trees can be predicted with very good accuracy; predictions of diameter distributions, number of mortality trees, and number of harvested trees are less accurate. Bruner and Moser, Jr. 1973.  Can. J. For. Res. 3: 409-417.

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

Sensitivity of texture of high resolution images of forest to biophysical and acquisition parameters

 


Bruniquel-Pinel V, Gastellu-Etchegorry JP

 

Centre d’Etudes Spatial, CNES-CNRS-UPS, Bpi 2801, 31401 Toulouse Cedex 4, France.


 


Abstract
This article presents a quantative analysis of the sensitivity of textural information of high resolution remote sensing images of a forest plantation (Les Landes, France) to a number of biophysical parameters: crown diameter, distance between trees and rows, tree positioning, leaf area index (LAI), and tree height. Influence of acquisition parameters (spatial resolution, spectral domain and viewing, and illumination configurations) is also investigated. The work is realized with the discrete anisotropic radioactive transfer model (DART) simulated images with which we quantify texture with variograms. Results point out the complex dependency of variogram characteristics (range, sill, amplitude of oscillations) on biophysical and acquisition parameters. Neglect of spatial variations of the reflectance of canopy elements, as in most geometric-optical models, can lead to important errors. This stresses the interest of accurate radiative transfer models, such as DART. Although tree crown diameter is the most influential biophysic parameter, its influence may be totally masked by acquisition parameters. Finally, theoretical results were tested against high resolution airborne data (1.67 m resolution). Although encouraging results were obtained, this work both confirms the difficulty of extracting reliable texture information from real remote sensing data, and stresses the usefulness of radiative transfer models for studying the texture of high resolution satellite images.Bruniquel-Pinel and Gastellu-Etchegorry 1998.  Remote Sens. Environ. 65: 61-85. 1998.

 

KeyWords Plus
variograms

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A light model for spatially explicit forest stand models


Andreas Brunner

Universitat Freiburg, Waldbau-Institut, Tennenbacher Str. 4, D 79085 Freiburg, Germany


Abstract
There is an increasing demand for detailed simulation of light in forest stand models. This is particularly true for spatially explicit growth models that represent individual trees. A large number of light models has been developed for forest stands, but only a few are spatially explicit and none has become part of a forest growth model for management applications. This paper describes a light model called tRAYci that can be used with models including a three-dimensional canopy representation calculated from crown shapes. The unobstructed irradiation of PAR above the canopy is simulated by combining submodels for the spatial distribution of direct and diffuse light. For a given paint within a forest stand, up to 32,400 sample rays are traced in the upper hemisphere, and for each sample ray, its path length in the simulated canopy space is calculated. PAR attenuation in the modelled crown space is simulated according to Bouguer's law using leaf area density for each species as the only variable. The results are given as percentage of the above canopy Light (PACL) for a defined growth period no shorter than a few weeks. PACL can be calculated for every point in a simulated stand. Light maps, profiles, and average PACL over the crown surface for individual tree crowns can be generated. The model was validated using light measurements and estimates from hemispherical photographs from a Douglas-fir stand in British Columbia. Sensitivity analyses for all model variables are presented and demonstrate the importance of crown representations for light models. Brunner 1998. For. Ecol. Manage. 107: 19-46. 1998.

 

Author Keywords
light, model, PAR, crown, forest

Keywords Plus
intercepted solar-radiation, diffuse sky radiance, even-aged stands, leaf-area index, abies l karst, Douglas-fir, canopy structure, hemispherical photography, deciduous forest, individual tree

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A sampling scheme for estimating the mean extractable phosphorus concentration of fields for environmental regulation


D.J. Brus

DLO Winand Staring Centre for Integrated Land, Soil and Water Research, P.O. Box 125, 6700

AC Wageningen, Netherlands

 

L.E.E.M. Spatjens

Laboratory for Soil and Crop Testing, P.O. Box 115, 6860 AC Oosterbeek, Netherlands

 

J.J. de Gruijter

DLO Winand Staring Centre for Integrated Land, Soil and Water Research, P.O. Box 125, 6700

AC Wageningen, Netherlands


Abstract
A soil sampling scheme for estimating the mean extractable P concentration of fields is designed to be used as a tool for environmental regulation of the application rates of manure. The field to be sampled, is split up into geographically compact blocks of equal area that are used as strata. From each stratum one sampling point is selected by Simple Random Sampling. These samples are bulked into one composite for the field. The geographical stratification is performed by restricted least-squares clustering of raster cells using the coordinates of the midpoints as classification variables and the within-group sum of squares as the minimization criterion. Using a variance model and a cost model, the numbers of sample points and laboratory analyses are optimized simultaneously, given a maximum allowed variance of the total error (sampling error plus measurement error). To predict the sampling variance, variograms have been estimated for 16 fields differing in land-use, soil parent material and phosphate level. A pooled relative variogram was used to predict the sampling variance for various sample sizes (5 to 50), field-areas (1 to 10 ha) and phosphate levels (for grassland 20 to 80 mg P2O5 extracted in ammonimum lactate per 100 g soil, for arable land 20 to 80 mg P2O5 extracted in water per 1 dm(3) soil). The cost model consists of three components: (i) fieldwork cost; (ii) field equipment cost and, (iii) laboratory cost. For the 16 fields, the predicted sampling variance of the Stratified Sampling design is 0.8 to 0.4 times the predicted variance of Simple Random Sampling if 40 points were sampled. To estimate the mean extractable P concentration with a total variance less than or equal to 9, replicate measurement of the composite only pays if the mean extractable P concentration of the field exceeds 40 to 50. This critical phosphate level increases with the maximum allowed variance of the total error. Brus,
Spatjens et al. 1999. Geoderma. 89: 129-148. 1999.

 

Author Keywords
soil testing, Stratified Random Sampling, geostatistics, cluster analysis, optimization, composite samples

Keywords Plus
soil

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Survival predictions for major Lake States tree species

 

Roland G. Buchman

North Central Forest Experiment Station, Forest Service--U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1992 Folwell Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota 55108

 

Abstract

A model of species' coefficients are reported for predicting individual tree survival for 10 Lake States species. Tree attributes are diameter growth rate and diameter at breast height. Regional and local performances are summarized.  Buchman 1983.USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. NC-233. 8p. 1983

 

Key Words

mortality rates, mortality models, survival model, mortality coefficients, tree risk

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Guide to evaluating forest growth projection systems

 

Roland G. Buchman, Stephen R. Shifley

North Central Forest Experiment Station, Forest Service--U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1992 Folwell Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota 55108

Abstract

The number and complexity of forest growth projection systems may make the task of evaluating and comparing alternative systems seem overwhelming.  Evaluations typically require the synthesis of many quantitative and qualitative factors. Managers can often benefit by separately considering the application environment, the performance, and the design of each candidate system. Although selection of evaluation criteria depends largely upon the application of being considered, guidance is available form the many evaluation criteria in the literature. Buchman and Shifley 1983. J. For. 81: 232-234

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Plant self-thinning and leaf area dynamics in experimental and natural monocultures

 

Michael 1. Hutchings, Christopher S. J. Budd

School of Biological Sciences, Univ. of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, Sussex BNI 9QG, England.  

Abstract

The gradient of the relationship between mean plant weight and density for many species in self-thinning monocultures is known to be -3/2. There is evidence in the literature that this gradient may decline as light intensity falls. A recent controversy has centred upon whether or not the -3/2 gradient can be restored at low light intensities by graphing mean leaf area per plant against density. An experiment was conducted, using Trifolium pratense L. grown at three light intensities, to establish the gradient of this relationship. Whereas the mean weight vs. density gradient remained near -3/2 at all light intensities, the mean leaf area vs. density gradient approximated to -1.0, indicating that leaf area index stays constant as thinning proceeds. Thus, the results do not support the proposal that alterations in leaf area ratio act to restore the -3/2 gradient to the mean leaf area vs. density graph at low light intensities. Support for these findings is discussed, including data from field monocultures of Mercurialis perennis L. Hutchings and Budd 1980. Oikos. 36: 319-325. 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spatial sampling design based on stochastic complexity


M. C. Bueso, J. M. Angulo

Departamento de Estadistica  e Investigacion Operativa, Universidad de Granada

Campus de Fuente Nueva, s/n, E-18071 Granada, Spain

G. Qian

School of Statistical Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, VIC 3083, Australia

F. J. Alonso

Departamento de Estadistica e Investigacio n Operativa, Universidad de Granada, Campus de Fuente Nueva, s/n, E-18071 Granada, Spain

 

 


Abstract
A new methodology is introduced for spatial sampling design when the variable of interest cannot be directly observed, but information on it can be obtained by sampling a related variable, and estimation of the underlying model is required. An approach based on entropy has been proposed by Bueso. Angulo, and Alonso (1198, Environ. Ecol. Statist. 5. No. 1, 29-44) in the case where a model for the involved variables is given. However. in some cases a predetermined structure modelling the behaviour of the variables cannot be assumed. In this context, we derive criteria by solving the design problem based on the stochastic complexity theory and on the philosophy of the EM algorithm. For applying the proposed criteria a computational procedure is developed based on the supplemented EM algorithms. The methodology is illustrated with a numerical example. Bueso, Angulo et al. 1999. J. Multivariate Anal. 71: 94-110. 

 

Author Keywords
EM algorithms, incomplete data, minimum description length, network design, stochastic complexity

KeyWords Plus
network design, lattice processes, incomplete data, entropy, EM, algorithm, variance

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Using biomass to improve site quality and carbon sequestration

 

Marilyn A. Buford, Bryce J. Stokes

USDA Forest Service, Vegetation Management and Protection Research P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090,USA

Felipe G. Sanche

USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station,  P. O. Box 12254, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA

Emily A. Carter

USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station, 520 Devall Drive, Auburn University, AL 36849-5418,USA

 
 
Abstract

The future demands on forest lands are a concern because of reduced productivity, especially on inherently poor sites, sites with long-depleted soils, or those soils that bear repeated, intensive short rotations. Forests are also an important carbon sink and, when well managed, can make even more significant contributions to sequestration and to reduction of greenhouse gases. This paper looks at the use of forest biomass as a carbon sink and as a source of nutrients for enhancing or restoring site productivity. It is hypothesized that wood incorporated into the soil will store carbon for an unknown length of time, and an example analysis using logging residues is presented. A field study was also conducted to evaluate the use of mulching and tilling as site preparation tools for incorporating biomass into the soil. Buford, Sanche et al. P.7. SESSION 4:carbon balances and sequestration in conventional Systems.

 

Key Words

carbon, nutrients, site preparation, biomass

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Probability distribution as models for mortality

 

M.A. Buford

Champion International Postdoctoral Fellow, School of Forestry and Wildlife Resources, Virginia Poly technic Institue and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061

W. L. Hafley

School of Forest Resources, North Carolina State University, Box 8002, Raleigh, NC 27695-8002  

Abstract

The necessary attributes for a mortality model for an even-aged forest stand are started. The Weibull distribution, the Gamma distribution, and the negative binominal distribution are proposed based on their previous use in failure research and as mortality models. A distribution derived from the Richards generalization of the Von Bertalanffy growth equation is proposed. The four functions are examined mathematically and empirically using data from a loblolly pine spacing study to determine their usefulness as mortality models. The negative binomial distribution and its continuous analog, the gamma distribution show instability under right-censoring and are computationally difficult. The Weibull distribution show extreme instability under right-censoring due to constrains on the location of the inflection points of its probability density function, limiting its value as a mortality model. The distribution derived from the Richards generalization of the Von Bertalanffy function is table under slight-censoring shows no constraints on assumable shapes, and is computationally simple.  Buford and Hafley 1985. For. Sci. 31: 331-341.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

Construction of forest growth models based on physiological principles

 

T.E. Burk

Department of Forest Resources, College of Natural Resources, University of Minnesota, 1530, North Cleveland Avenue , St. Paul, MN, 55180

R. Sievanen

Department of Mathematics, The Finnish Forest Research Institute, Unioninkatu 40 A,00170 Helsinki, Finland

 A. R. EK

Department of Forest Resources, College of Natural Resources, University of Minnesota, 1530, North Cleveland Avenue , St. Paul, MN, 55180

 

Abstract

Basic structures for management-oriented forest growth models have changed little over last several decades. If additional progress is be made in the prediction of forest growth, especially under a potentially changing environment, new modeling approaches must be sought. We discuss the use of physiological principles for construction of forest growth models. An example of such a model is presented for aspen. Extensions necessary for modeling at the tree level are discussed. Key components and methodological advances requisite to making such models practical for forest management decision  making are outlined. Burk, Sievanen et al. 1989.  P.1-10. Aspen Symposium. 1989.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

A simple algorithm for moment-based recovery of Weibull distribution parameters

 

Thomas E. Burk, James D. Newberry

Department of Forestry, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061  

Abstract

A solution technique to solve for the parameters of a three-parameter Weibull distribution is presented. The specific application of interest concerns the use of the Weibull in yield model. Two alternative formulations are discussed, and a numerical example is presented. FORTRAN   programs which implement the formulations are available from the authors. Burk and Newberry 1984. For. Sci. 30: 329-332. 1984.

 

Additional key words

Growth and yield modeling, diameter distribution

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Aboveground production and nutrient circulation along a flooding gradient in a South Carolina Coastal Plain forest


Marianne K. Burke

USDA Forest Service, Center for Forested wetlands Research, Chleston, SC 29414, USA

B. Graeme Lockaby

School of Forestry, Auburn University, Auburn, AL36849, USA

William H. Conner

Belle W. Baruch Forest Science Institute, Clemson University, Georgetown, SC 29442 USA

 


Abstract
Relative to effects of flooding, little is known about the influence of hydrology-nutrient interactions on aboveground net primary production (NPP) in forested wetlands. We found that nutrient circulation and NPP were closely related along a complex physical, chemical, and hydrologic gradient in a bottomland hardwood forest with four distinct communities. Aboveground biomass, NPP, biomass partitioning to stem production, growth efficiency, and soil macronutrient availability were greatest in the flooded zone, possibly because of the stable hydrologic regime. In the wet transition zone, trees were least productive, nutrient use efficiency was highest, and N retranslocation from foliage before abscission was "complete." Wet and dry transition zones had the lowest litterfall quality. Soil organic matter was negatively correlated with extractable NH4-N plus NO3-N before in site incubations and positively correlated with litterfall lignin/N ratios. Lignin/P and C/N ratios were positively correlated with exchangeable soil Ca and Mg, cation exchange capacity, and clay content and negatively correlated with extractable soil P. We concluded that periodic flooding and associated widely fluctuating soil chemistry resulted in disequilibria between the plant community and environmental conditions, which led to nutrient deficiency and low NPP in the transition zones compared with the continuously flooded and mesic zones. Burke, Lockaby et al. 1999.  Can. J. For. Res. 29: 1402-1418. 1999.

 

KeyWords Plus
southeastern floodplain forests, use efficiency, nitrogen mineralization, loblolly-pine, photosynthetic rates, growth-responses, nyssa-sylvatica, swamp-forest, wetlands, resorption

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

Stand modeling for radiata pine in New Zealand  

Harold E. Burkhart

Department of Forestry,  Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Blacksburg. VA, U.S.A. 24061

 

Abstract

Intensive forest management requires reliable information on stand dynamics, growth, and yield. A variety of modeling options will probably be required to provide information on which to base the full spectrum of forest management decisions. In this paper, modeling alternatives are regarded as part of a continuum of complementary systems rather than as mutually exclusive options. A brief overview of selected stand modeling alternatives is given, with some discussion of general situations for which the various approaches might prove efficient; and data bases for stand modeling are considered. Suggestions are offered for modeling Pinus radiata stands in New Zealand. Burkhart 1977. N. Z. J. For. 22: 297-307. 1977.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Site index equations for Douglas fir in Kaingaroa forest  

H.E. Burkhart, R.B. Tennent

Forest Research Institute, New Zealand Forest Service, Rotorua  

Abstract

Site index (height of the dominant stand at some specified reference age) is a  practical and commonly used method for quantifying site quality in pure even-aged stands. Permanent plot records form Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb) Franco) stands in Kaingaroa Forest were used to compute site index equations. Coefficient for the equation developed are presented, and limitations in the application of the equation are discussed. Burkhart and Tennent 1977. N. Z. J. For. Sci. 7: 417-419. 1977.

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

Comparisons of Modeled Height Predictions to Ocular Height Estimates

 

W.A. Bechtold, S.J. Zarnoch, and W.G. Burkman

USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station,  Asheville, NC.

 

Abstract

Equations used by USDA Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis projects to predict individual tree heights on the basis of species and dbh were improved by the addition of mean overstory height. However, ocular estimates of total height by field crews were more accurate than the statistically improved models, especially for hardwood species. Height predictions from the improved equations attained the desired measurement quality objective only 57% of the time, while ocular estimates achieved the desired accuracy 75% the time. Bechtold, Zarnoch et al. 1998. South. J. Appl. For. 22(4):216-221. 1998.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The occurrence and possible sources of nitrite in a grazed, fertilized, grassland soil


Burns LC, Stevens RJ, Smith RV

Department of Agricultural and Environmental Science, the Queen’s University of Belfaast, NewForge Lane, Belfast BT9 5PX Northern Ireland, UK

 Cooper JE

Department of Applied Plant Science,the Queen’s University of Belfaast, NewForge Lane, Belfast BT9 5PX Northern Ireland, UK


SOIL BIOLOGY & BIOCHEMISTRY

27 (1): 47-59 JAN 1995

 


Abstract
Concentrations of NO2--N in land drainage and river waters in Northern Ireland in recent years have frequently exceeded EEC guide values. Very little information exists to indicate if and when NO2- accumulates in soil solution, and whether NO2- from the soil profile is the source of NO2- in drainage and river waters. The occurrence of NO2- in the field was studied and laboratory incubation experiments carried out to determine the possible sources of NO2- in grassland soil. Field studies were carried out to determine the occurrence and spatial variability of NO2- in a grazed, grassland soil. Plots receiving either 100 or 500 kg N ha-1 yr-1 were systematically sampled in May and October 1992. Concentrations of NO2- in soil were highly variable and ranged from 0 to 2.747 mug N g-1, the data being significantly skewed to the right. Correlation matrices and stepwise multiple regression analyses showed relationships between NO2- and a number of soil variables. Nitrite appeared to be related to variables which indicated its occurrence as a result of nitrification of either fertilizer- or urine-derived NH4+. Nitrate was repeatedly correlated to NO2- concentrations, suggesting that both nitrification and nitrate reduction may be responsible for NO2- formation. Spatially, nitrite occurred at random, basic geostatistic producing only one variogram, showing an increase in NO2- concentrations with an increase in distance between sampling points. There was no pattern to the distribution of NO2- with depth, indicating differences in the ratios of the rates of NO2- production and consumption. Numbers of NH3-oxidizers were consistently higher than numbers of NO2- -oxidizers, with some degree of variation between samples. The microbial aspects of NO2- formation are discussed, including partial recycling of NO2- via the NO3- pool, and possible causes of NO2- accumulation due to the inhibition of NO2--oxidizing bacteria. Laboratory incubation studies were carried out in which measurable NO2- flushes were induced. Increasing soil pH and NH4+ concentrations produced large NO2- flushes, which peaked after about 17 days of incubation, then rapidly declined. Soil incubated with urea produced NO2--N concentrations equivalent to those encountered in the field, suggesting that NH4+ oxidation accounts for a significant proportion of NO2- formed in this soil. Burns, Stevens et al. 1994. Soil Biol. Biochem. 27: 47-59. 1994.

 

Keywords Plus
banding nitrogen fertilizers, nitrosomonas-europaea, nitrate reduction, temporal patterns, denitrification, nitrification, nitrobacter, growth, nitrifiers, bacteria

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spatial variability of topsoil characteristics within one silty soil type - Effects on clay migration


Bartoli F, Burtin G

Univ Nancy 1,Cnrs, Upr 6831,Ctr Pedol Biol,Bp 5,F-54501 Vandoeuvre Nancy,France
 Royer JJ

Cnrs,Ctr Rech Petrog & Geochim,F-54501 Vandoeuvre Nancy,France

Gury M, Gomendy V, Philip­­­­py R

Univ Nancy 1,Cnrs, Upr 6831,Ctr Pedol Biol,Bp 5,F-54501 Vandoeuvre Nancy,France

Leviandier T, Gafrej R

Cemagref,Div Hydrol,F-92164 Antony,France
GEODERMA

68 (4): 279-300 NOV 1995

 


Abstract
In order to understand and to model soil runoff erosion as well as to optimize sampling schemes, improved understanding of spatial variability of clay and some other soil erosion parameters is needed. For this purpose, two complementary approaches to the study of spatial variability of silty topsoil characteristics, the pedological approach and the fractal approach applied to geostatistics, were carried out in the context of soil erosion within the intensive cereal agriculture zone of northwestern Europe.

 

Fractal geometry provides one synthetic key to the description of classical geostatistical tools such as variograms. Spatial structures of soil properties of each of the three topsoil pedological units were mostly characterized along the slope by the ranges of the fractal one-dimensional space domains and their scale invariants: the fractal dimensions. Results suggest that, within each topsoil pedological unit, these scale invariants are relevant qualifiers of the intrinsic topsoil variability, which can be modelled as a fractal Brownian process and should be incorporated in simple recursive or complex network soil erosion models. Different surface fractal dimensions, in a one-dimensional space, have been found within these three topsoil units for each soil parameter studied (multifractals), All the data have been aggregated within the whole one-dimensional slope transect in order to obtain both possible general scale laws on clays and other soil characteristics and possible evidence concerning underlying soil erosion mechanisms by particle runoff. B artoli, Burtin et al. 1995. Geoderma. 68: 279-300. 1995.

 

KeyWords Plus
fractal dimensions, aggregate stability, multiscale sources, water properties, erosion, runoff, fragmentation, infiltration, porosity, networks

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

Growth and Yield in Managed Natural Stands of Loblolly and Shortleaf Pine in the West Gulf Coastal Plain

 

Burton, J.D.

 

Alexandria Forestry Center, Southern Forest Experiment Station, Forest Service-USDA, Pineville, Louisiana.

 

 

Abstract

Second-growth even-aged loblolly-shortleaf pine stands on good and medium sites were thinned from above or below to a basal area of 70 ft2, 85 ft2, and 100 ft2/acre, to an increasing basal area, or according to the judgment of a committee. Treatments began at age 20 for original plots and at age 25 for supplementary plots (on good sites only), which were thinned to a basal area of 55ft2, 115 ft2, or 130 ft2/acre. Stands were thinned every 5 years. At age 45, most trees in good-site original plots and supplementary plots thinned from below were in the l0-inch d.b.h. class and larger. In the 70-ft2, 85-ftk,and "increasing" treatments, most stems were in the 15-inchclass and larger. On good-site original plots thinned from below, at 45 years standing sawtimber volume for trees (>=)9.6 inches d.b.h. containing (>,=) one 16-ft log to an 8-inchtop was greatest in "increasing" treatment plots and least in 85-ft2and 100-ft2/acre plots. In supplementary plots, standing board-foot volume was greatest in 130-ft2 and least in 55-ft2/acre plots. On medium sites, standing volume was greatest in "judgment" and l00ft and least in 70 ft2/acre plots. Sawtimber m.a.i. was still increasing rapidly at age 45 in all treatments. Cubic-foot m.a.i. was increasing slowly on medium sites but declining in supplementary plots and in all good-site original plots except the 70-ft" and "increasing" treatments. On good sites, p.a.g. in board feet culminated between ages 30 and 35 in the 70-ft2/ and 85.ft2 treatments and between ages 40 and 45 in "increasing" plots. On medium sites, p.a.g. apparently was still increasing at 45 years. On both sites, sawtimber ingrowth was much less complete at age 45 in thin-from-above stands than in those thinned from below. On good sites, sawtimber yield to age 45 in plots thinned from below was greatest in "increasing" treatment plots and least in l00- ft2/acre stands. In supplementary plots, sawtimber yield was greatest in 55-ft2 and least in 115-ft2/acre treatments. On medium sites, sawtimber yield was greatest in "judgment" and l00ft and least in 70-ft2/acre stands. On good sites, cubic-foot yield to age 45, in peeled stemwood to a 3-inch d.i.b., trees (>,=) 3.6 inches d.b.h., in plots thinned from elow,was greatest for "increasing" treatment plots and least for 70-ft2 stands. In supplementary plots, cubic-foot yield was greatest for 130-ft2 and least for 55-ft2 /acre plots. On medium sites, cubic-foot yield was greatest for 100.ft2and least for 70-ft2/acre stands. Burton 1980. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. SO-159. 27p. 1980.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Promoting old-growth characteristics and long-term wood production in Douglas-fir forests


R.T. Busing

Forestry Sciences Laboratory, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA

S.L. Garmanb

Department of Forest Science, 321 Richardson Hall, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA


Abstract
Trade-offs among wood production, wood quality and ecological characteristics in the management of harvested forest stands a-re explored through model simulation of various silvicultural regimes. Long-term production of merchantable wood, production of various types of hi.-h-quality wood, and the level of certain quantitative ecological indicators are projected for coniferous forests of Pacific Northwestern USA. The set of ecological indicators used is based on the species composition and physical structure of old, unlogged forest stands. Simulations are performed with an ecological model of forest stand dynamics that tracks the fate of live and dead trees. Short rotations (<50 years) produce the least amount of high-quality wood over the multi-century simulation period. They also fail to generate ecological attributes resembling those of old forest stands. Production of high-quality wood is moderate to high under all rotations of 80 years or more; however, most ecological indicators require longer rotations unless alternatives to clearcutting are applied. Alternatives examined include retention of 15% cover of live tree canopy at each harvest in combination with artificial thinning between harvests. Thinning from below can expedite the development of large live and dead trees, and canopy height diversity without greatly diminishing wood quantity or quality, Proportional thinning retains understory stems, thereby expediting the recruitment of shade-tolerant trees. A possible drawback to thinning, particularly proportional thinning, is the diminished production of clean-bole wood at rotations of 150 and 260 years. It is concluded that most wood quantity, wood quality and ecological objectives can be met with long rotations (ca. 260 years). certain objectives can be met with shorter rotations (80-150 years) when treatments of thinning and canopy tree retention are applied. Busing and Garmanb 2002. For. Ecol. Manage. 160: 161–175. 2002.

Author Keywords
ecological simulation, forest dynamics, late-successional characteristics, Pacific Northwest, rotation length, silviculture, wood quality

KeyWords Plus
pacific-northwest, regimes, oregon

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Size-specific mortality, growth, and structure of a Great Smoky Mountains red spruce population

 

Richard T Busing, Xinyuan Wu

Graduate Program in Ecology, University of Tennessee, Knowxville, TN 37996-1610, USA  

Abstract

Old-growth population dynamics of Picea rubens Sarg. Were studied in a montane spruce-fir forest in North Carolina and Tennessee, Size-class structure fit a semilogarithmic rotated sigmoid curve typical of s stable population. Although the population contained trees of all ages, a large proportion of the population was less than 100 years old; few trees were greater than 350 years old. Mortality rates were estimated from a 2 decade census and from population structure data. For trees above breast height, annual mortality was approximately 1% of the population. Small trees (<30 cm dbh) and large trees (>60cm dbh) had mortality rates exceeding 0.7% per year. Intermediate-sized trees tended to have low mortality rates (<0.5% per year) and high radial growth rates. Growth in the 10-year interval preceding death tended to be slow for standing dead trees. Standing death of canopy trees was more prevalent than death by windfall. These findings emphasized the influence of stand dynamics on spruce growth and mortality. Busing and Wu 1990. Can. J. For. Res. 20: 206-210. 1990.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Application of a spruce-fir forest canopy gap model

 

R.T. Busing

Department of Botany, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-1100 USA

E.E.C. Clebsch

Graduate Program in Ecology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-1610 USA

 

Abstract

A gap model was developed from the FORET model of Shugart and West (1977) to simulate stand dynamics of an old-growth spruce-fir forest in the Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina and Tennessee. As in FORET, the recruitment, growth and mortality of individual trees on a gap-size tract are calculated and tabulated annually. Regeneration algorithms were developed to simulate gap-phase recruitment of subsamplings. The model was designed for studies of long-term forest dynamics with and without exogenous disturbance.

 

The spruce-fir model was validated by comparing simulated and natural forest responses to disturbances involving canopy tree mortality. Simulated density and basal area values were compared to those of actual stands. Absolute and relative basal area responses were found to be reliable.

 

The model was applied to predict future forest stand composition, structure and dynamics under a variety of potential disturbance regimes including air pollution stress and aphid-inced fir mortality. In the absence of exogenous disturbance the model predicted long-term coexistence of  spruce and fir. Simulated balsam woolly aphid infestation of fir resulted in a spruce-dominated forest with low total stand density. A moderately severe spurce growth decline in the presence of an undisturbed fir population resulted in a fir-brich forest. In association with a fir population decline the effects of spruce growth stress were diminished. The contemporaneous decline of spruce and fir populations resulted in a hardwood-dominated forest with low stand biomass. Busing and Clebsch 1987. For. Ecol. Manage. 20: 151-169. 1987.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Estimating DBH from Stump Diameter for 15 Southern Species

 

Carl V. Bylin

Renewable Resources Evaluation, Southern Forest Experiment Station, Forest Service-USDA, New

Orleans, Louisiana.

 

Abstract

Regression equations for predicting dbh from tree stump diameter inside and outside bark are presented for 15 southern species. Equations were certified on independent test subsets using the F distribution statistic with significance level of .05. Bylin 1982. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. SO-286. 3p. 1982.

 

Key Words

dbh, stump diameter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

Volume Prediction from Stump Diameter and Stump Height of Selected Species in Louisiana

 

Carl V.  Bylin

Renewable Resources Evaluation, Southern Forest Experiment Station, Forest Service-USDA, New

Orleans, Louisiana.

Abstract

Equations for predicting cubic foot volumes from stump diameter and stump height are presented for 15 southern species. Of the two separate sets of equations developed, one predicts volumes from stump diameter and the other predicts volume from stump diameter and stump height. In each set, six equations for each species predict total, merchantable, and sawtimber volumes. Two equations for each of the above are presented using stump diameter inside bark and stump diameter outside bark. Equations were verified on independent test subsets using the F distribution statistic with a significance level of .05. Equations will predict volume within +/- 2 standard errors 95 percent of the time. Bylie 1982. USDA For. Serv. Res. Pap. SO-182. 15p. 1982.

 

Key words

Volume, sawtimber volume, total volume, merchantable volume, stump diameter, stump height

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

Complex compatible taper and volume estimation systems for red and loblolly pine

 

John C. Byrne

USDA Forest Service, Intermountain Forest and Range Experiment Station, Moscow, ID 83843

David D. Reed

School of Forestry and Wood Products, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931  

Abstract

Five equation systems are described which can be used to estimate upper stem diameter, total individual tree cubic-foot volume, and merchantable cubic-foot volumes to any merchantability limit (expressed in terms of diameter or height) both inside and out side bark. The equations provided consistent results since they are mathematically related and are fit using stem analysis data from plantation-grown red and loblolly pine. Comparisons are made to determine which equation system provides the best overall fit to a set of validation data for each species. Results indicate that a system based on a segmented taper equation outperformed all other systems for both species. Byrne and Reed 1986. For. Sci. 32: 423-443. 1986.

 

Additional key words

Pinus resinosa, pinus taeda

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

Tools for optimizing management of spatially-variable fields

H.W.G. Booltink

Laboratory of Soil Science and Geology, Wageningen University, Duivendaal 1, PO Box 37, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands

B.J. van Alphen

Laboratory of Soil Science and Geology, Wageningen University, Duivendaal 1, PO Box 37, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands

W.D. Batchelor

Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011-3080, USA

J.O. Paz

Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011-3080, USA

J.J. Stoorvogel

Laboratory of Soil Science and Geology, Wageningen University, Duivendaal 1, PO Box 37, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands

R. Vargas

CORBANA, Direccio´n de Investigaciones, Apartado 390-7210 Gua piles, Costa Rica

 

Abstract
Efficient use of agro-chemicals is beneficial for farmers as well as for the environment. Spatial and temporal optimization of farm management will increase productivity or reduce the amount of agro-chemicals. This type of management is referred to as Precision Agriculture, Traditional management implicitly considers any field to be a homogeneous unit for management: fertilization, tillage and crop protection measures, for example, are not varied within a single field. The question for management is what to do it-hen. Because of the variability within the field, this implies inefficient use of resources. Precision agriculture defines different management practices to be applied within single, variable fields, potentially reducing costs and limiting adverse environmental side effects. The question is not only what and it-hen but also where. Many tools for management and analysis of spatial variable fields have been developed. In this paper, tools for managing spatial variability are demonstrated in combination with tools to optimize management in environmental and economic terms. The tools are illustrated on five case studies ranging from (1) a low technology approach using participatory mapping to derive fertilizer recommendations for resource-poor farmers in Embu, Kenya, (2) an example of backward modelling to analyze fertilizer applications and restrict nitrogen losses to the groundwater in the Wieringermeer in The Netherlands, (3) a low-tech approach of precision agriculture, developed for a banana plantation in Costa Rica to achieve higher input use efficiency and insight in spatial and temporal variation, (4) a high-tech, forward modelling approach to derive fertilizer recommendations for management units in Zuidland in The Netherlands, and (5) a high-tech, backward modelling approach to detect the relative effects of several stress factors on soybean yield. Booltink  and Alphen et al. 2001. Agr. Syst. 70: 445-476. 

Author Keywords
precision agriculture, management, modelling, prediction, spatial variability, temporal variability

Key Words Plus
precision agriculture, unsaturated soil, fuzzy-sets, classification, variability, simulation, scenarios, scale