Complex compatible taper and volume estimation systems for red and loblolly pine

Abstract

Five equation systems are described which can be used to estimate upper stem diameter, total individual tree cubic-foot volume, and merchantable cubic-foot volumes to any merchantability imit (expressed in terms of diameter or height), both inside and outside bark. The equations provide consistent results since they are mathematically related and are fit using stem analysis data from plantation-grown red and loblolly pine. Comparisons are made to determine which equation system provides the best overall fit to a set of validation data for each species. Results indicate that a system based on a segmented taper equation outperformed all other systems for both species.

Citation

Byrne, John C.; Reed, David D. 1986. Complex compatible taper and volume estimation systems for red and loblolly pine. Forest Science 32(2): 423-443.