Critical length sampling: a method to estimate the volume of downed coarse woody debris

Göran Ståhl; Jeffrey Gove; Michael S. Williams; Mark J. Ducey

doi:10.1007/s10342-010-0382-3

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Critical length sampling: a method to estimate the volume of downed coarse woody debris

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Göran Ståhl, Jeffrey Gove, Michael S. Williams, Mark J. Ducey

Year:

2010

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Northern Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10342-010-0382-3

Source:

European Journal of Forest Research. 129: 993-1000.

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Abstract

In this paper, critical length sampling for estimating the volume of downed coarse woody debris is presented. Using this method, the volume of downed wood in a stand can be estimated by summing the critical lengths of down logs included in a sample obtained using a relascope or wedge prism; typically, the instrument should be tilted 90° from its usual orientation in sampling live trees. The critical length of a downed tree is the length of the log section large enough in diameter to be counted from the selected sample point. A simulation study was conducted to compare critical length sampling with diameter relascope sampling and perpendicular distance sampling.

Keywords

critical height sampling, dead wood, forest inventory, relascope sampling, simulation

Citation

Stahl, Goran; Gove, Jeffrey H.; Williams, Michael S.; Ducey, Mark J. 2010. Critical length sampling: a method to estimate the volume of downed coarse woody debris. European Journal of Forest Research. 129: 993-1000.