Reineke's Stand Density Index: Where are we and where do we go from here?

Abstract

In recent years there has been renewed interest in Reineke's Stand Density Index (SDI). Although originally described as a measurement of relative density in single-species, even-aged stands, it has since been generalized for use in uneven-aged stands and its use in multi-species stands is an active area of investigation. Some investigators use a strict definition of SDI and consider indicies developed for mixed and irregularly structured stands to be distinct from Reineke's. In addition, there is ongoing debate over the use of standard or variable exponents to describe the self-thinning relationship that is integral to SDI. This paper describes the history and characteristics of SDI, its use in silvicultural applications, and extensions to the concept.

Citation

Shaw, John D. 2006. Reineke''s Stand Density Index: Where are we and where do we go from here?. In: Proceedings: Society of American Foresters 2005 National Convention; October 19-23, 2005, Fort Worth, Texas, [CD-ROM]. Bethesda, MD: Society of American Foresters: [1]-13