Abstract
Data from annual measurements of a loblolly pine (
Pinus taeda L.) plantation were available for this study. Regression techniques were employed to model annual changes of individual trees in terms of diameters, heights, and survival probabilities. Subsets of the data that include measurements every 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 years were used to fit the same tree-growth equations. Two methods of estimating parameters of the annual growth equation from periodic measurements were evaluated. The Constant Rate method assumed a constant tree-survival probability and constant diameter and height-growthrates during the growing interval. In contrast, these annual changes were assumed to be different from year to year in the Variable Rate method. Results indicated that the Variable Rate method out performed the Constant Rate method in predicting annual tree growth from periodic measurements.
Parent Publication
Citation
Cao, Quang V. 2004. Annual Tree Growth Predictions From Periodic Measurements. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS–71. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pp. 212-215