Measuring site index in the central hardwood region

Abstract

Site index is the average height of dominant and codominant trees growing in well-stocked, even-aged stands at a given age called ?index age.? Fifty years is the most commonly used index age in upland hardwoods. Sometimes 25 or 30 years are used for short-rotation bottomland hardwoods. Site index is widely used to indicate site quality because it correlates well with site productivity, is easily measured, and within limits is not affected by stand stocking. You can measure site index either directly or indirectly. It is important to be able to determine site productivity when deciding on biological treatments and levels of economic investments (see Note 4.01 The Importance of Site Quality).

Parent Publication

• Central hardwood notes

Citation

McQuilkin, Robert A. 1989. Measuring site index in the central hardwood region. In: Hutchinson, Jay G., ed. Central hardwood notes. St. Paul, MN.: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station. 4.02