Download (PDF 365 KB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/15895.pdf
Abstract
Analytical tools are needed to evaluate the impact of management policies on the sustainable use of rain forest. Optimal decisions concerning the level of management inputs require accurate predictions of output at all relevant input levels. Using growth data from 40 l-hectare permanent plots obtained from the semi-deciduous forest of Ghana, a system of 77 differential equations was developed to quantify the growth dynamics of the mixed-species rain forest. The models underlying the equations were developed for seven species groups, each with similar growth characteristics. This minimized the parameter estimation error. Simultaneous solution of the differential equations with initial stand conditions produced estimates of yield at some future time that was independent of stand age. The solution provides the means to project the status of the timber stand at any future time given well-specified initial stand conditions. The models are useful for inventory updating, allowable annual cut calculations, and management planning for natural or managed stands.
Parent Publication
Citation
Atta-Boateng, James; Moser, John W., Jr. 2000. Growth and yield model application in tropical rain forest management. In: Hansen, Mark; Burk, Tom, eds. Integrated tools for natural resources inventories in the 21st century. Gen. Tech. Rep. NC-212. St. Paul, MN: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station. 473-480.
