Tables for estimating canopy fuel characteristics from stand variables in four interior west conifer forest types

Abstract

Tables have been constructed for use in making quick estimates of canopy base height, canopy fuel load, and canopy bulk density from visual observations or field measurements of stand height, basal area, and stand density for pure stands of ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Dougl. ex Laws.), lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Dougl. ex Loud.), and Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco), and a mixed conifer type found in the US interior west. These canopy fuel characteristics are needed for assessing crown fire potential in such fuel complexes. The tabulated values are based on previously published regression equations that have undergone performance evaluations. Both English and metric unit versions of the canopy fuel characteristics tables are presented. © 2014 Society of American Foresters.