Applications of an automated stem measurer for precision forestry

Abstract

Accurate stem measurements are required for the determination of many silvicultural prescriptions, i.e., what are we going to do with a stand of trees. This would only be amplified in a precision forestry context. Many methods have been proposed for optimal ways to evaluate stems for a variety of characteristics. These methods usually involve the acquisition of total stem measurements, which are expensive and difficult to collect. A video rangefinder instrument is presented here as a move toward efficient collection of this total stem data used on a per stem or precision basis for fertilization, thinning, harvesting, and merchandising decision-making.

Citation

Clark, N. 2001. Applications of an automated stem measurer for precision forestry. Proceedings, The First International Precision Forestry Cooperative Symposium. 93-98