An Integrated System Approach to Model Tree and Stand Growth

Abstract

An integrated system contains a unified mathematical structure for modeling tree and stand growth that can be applied at any level of resolution. This paper outlines the recent progress that has made this concept a reality: 1) the integrated system is based on a whole-stand growth model; 2) given a tree list, an individual-tree growth model can be derived from the stand model; 3) a diameter distribution (e.g., Weibull) can be partitioned into individual trees, which can be grown according to the tree growth model from 2) and 4) a stand table can be converted into a tree list, which can be used to derive a tree growth model by use of the technique from 2). This integrated system can provide growth predictions for the current stand. The inputs can be a plot summary, a tree list, a stand table, or a diameter distribution. The outputs are constrained to have numerical consistency across all levels of resolution.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings of the 22nd Biennial Southern Silvicultural Research Conference

Citation

Cao, Quang V. 2024. An Integrated System Approach to Model Tree and Stand Growth. In: Bragg, Don C.; Oswald, Brian P.; Koerth, Nancy E., eds. Proceedings of the 22nd biennial southern silvicultural research conference. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-274. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station: 6–9. https://doi.org/10.2737/SRS-GTR-274-Pap2.