A Simulation Algorithm to Approximate the Area of Mapped Forest Inventory Plots

William Bechtold; Naser E. Heravi; Matthew E. Kinkenon

doi:10.2737/SRS-GTR-67

Treesearch

A Simulation Algorithm to Approximate the Area of Mapped Forest Inventory Plots

Informally Refereed

Authors:

William Bechtold, Naser E. Heravi, Matthew E. Kinkenon

Year:

2003

Type:

General Technical Report

Station:

Southern Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.2737/SRS-GTR-67

Source:

Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-67. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. 8 p.

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Download (PDF 1.16 MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/5500.pdf

Abstract

Calculating the area of polygons associated with mapped forest inventory plots can be mathematically cumbersome, especially when computing change between inventories. We developed a simulation technique that utilizes a computer-generated dot grid and geometry to estimate the area of mapped polygons within any size circle. The technique also yields a matrix of change in mapped-plot area between two points in time.

Keywords

Area transition matrix, condition class, forest inventory, mapped plots, plot area calculation

Citation

Bechtold, William A.; Heravi, Naser E.; Kinkenon, Matthew E. 2003. A Simulation Algorithm to Approximate the Area of Mapped Forest Inventory Plots. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-67. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. 8 p.