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Visual Basic Growth-and-Yield Models With A Merchandising Optimizer For Planted Slash and Loblolly Pine in the West Gulf Region

Informally Refereed

Abstract

We developed two growth-and-yield models for thinned and unthinned plantations of slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm. var elliottii) and loblolly pine (P. taeda L.). The models, VB Merch-Slash and VB Merch-Lob, can be used to forecast product volumes and stand values for stands partitioned into 1-inch diameter-at-breast-height classes at any stage of plantation development from ages 10 through 50. Variables required to run the programs are age, density, site quality, minimum and maximum dimensions of products, and product prices. A merchandising optimizer converts predicted stand tables into an estimated optimum product mix by using a dynamic programming algorithm that maximizes the stand’s selling value. The programs are written in Visual Basic and are available from the authors.

Parent Publication

Citation

Busby, R.L.; Chang, S.J.; Pasala, P.R.; Goelz, J.C.G. 2004. Visual Basic Growth-and-Yield Models With A Merchandising Optimizer For Planted Slash and Loblolly Pine in the West Gulf Region. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS–71. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pp. 210-211
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/6644