An Individual-Tree Growth and Yield Prediction System for Even-Aged Natural Shortleaf Pine Forests

Abstract

The development of a system of equations that model the growth and development of even-aged natural shortleaf (Pinus echinata Mill.) pine forests is described. The growth prediction system is a distance-independent individual-tree simulator containing equations that predict basal-area growth, survival, total and merchantable heights, and total and merchantable volumes for shortleaf pine trees. These equations were combined into a computer simulation program that predicts future states of shortleaf pine stands from initial stand descriptions. Comparisons of observed and predicted ending stand conditions in shortleaf pine research plots indicate the simulator makes acceptable forecasts of final stand attributes.