Board-foot and Cubic-foot Volume Computing Equations for Southeastern Tree Species

Abstract

Wide acceptance of Bitterlich's (2) method of sampling, popularized in this country by Grosenbaugh (3), with adaptations such as the variable plot used by Forest Survey in the Southeast, has opened a new era in forest surveying. The efficiency of these sampling methods, accompanied by the timely availability of electronic computing machines, has made it feasible to collect and retain large amounts of forest inventory information. Each tree on the sample plot now can be treated individually, recording such descriptive data as species, tree quality, and crown class, along with stem dimensions, amount of cull, and rate of growth. This information can be transferred to individual punch cards with area information such as forest type, stand size, site quality, and stand condition. The method has greatly expanded the ability of the forest manager to analyze the situation in large forest holdings and that of the forest resource analyst to do so for a state or region. Still lacking, however, are volume equations that can provide precise volume estimates for individual trees to match this fund of detailed tree and area data.

Citation

Bryan, Mackay B.; McClure, Joe P. 1962. Board-foot and Cubic-foot Volume Computing Equations for Southeastern Tree Species. USDA Forest Service, Southeastern Forest Experiment Station, Station Paper No. 145, July 1962