Deterministic models of growth and mortality for jack pine in boreal forests of Western Canada

Abstract

We developed individual tree deterministic growth and mortality models for jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) using data from permanent sample plots in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, Canada. Height and diameter increment equations were fitted using nonlinear mixed effects models. Logistic mixed models were used to estimate jack pine survival probability based on tree and stand characteristics. The resulting models showed that (1) jack pine growth is significantly influenced by competition; (2) competitive effects differ between species groups; and (3) survival probability is affected by tree size and growth, stand composition, and stand density. The estimated coefficients of selected growth and mortality functions were implemented into the Mixedwood Growth Model (MGM) and the simulated predictions were evaluated against independently measured data. The validation showed that the MGM can effectively model jack pine trees and stands, providing support for its use in management planning.