Stand-Level Growth and Yield Component Models for Red Oak-Sweetgum Forests on Mid-South Minor Stream Bottoms

摘要

Greater emphasis is being placed on Southern bottomland hardwood management, but relatively few growth and yield prediction systems exist that are based on sufficient measurements. We present the aggregate stand-level expected yield and structural component equations for a red oak (Quercus section Lobatae)-sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua L.) growth and yield model. Measurements from 638 stand-level observations on 258 distinct permanent growth and yield plots collected in 1981, 1988, 1994, and 2006 in minor stream bottoms in Mississippi and Alabama provided data for model development. Equations for average height of dominant and codominant red oaks, trees/ac, arithmetic mean diameter, quadratic mean diameter, and volume were selected on the basis of significance of independent variables, coefficient of determination, index of fit, and biological validity assessment. These models produce expected average yields for combined specie; or species groups in naturally developing stands and provide an average baseline for individuals managing their lands for the red oak-sweetgum complex. Models will be integrated with log grade volume and diameter distribution models that are in concurrent development to produce a growth and yield system capable of comparing management alternatives on a financial basis.