Cluster analysis: an application in forest management planning

Abstract

The basic principle of cluster analysis is illustrated with a simple example. The method is used to aggregate stands into clusters, each of which is relatively homogeneous and geographically compact but distinct from the remainder. Such aggregation is required to convert the output from a harvest scheduling model to a form suitable as input for a one-year, operational planning model. An application of the method, based on data from the Iroquois Falls management unit in northern Ontario is given. -Author