Using a Density-Management Design to Develop Thinning Schedules for Loblolly Pine Plantations

摘要

A method for developing thinning schedules using a density-management diagram is presented. A density-management diagram is a form of stocking chart based on patterns of natural stand development. The diagram allows rotation diameter and the upper and lower limits of growing stock to be easily transformed into before and after thinning densities. Site height lines on the diagram together with site index curves then allow the timing of thinnings to be specified. Intermediate and final harvest volumes are calculated with a growth and yield simulator capable of recovering the diameter distribution within the plantation. The development of thinning schedules by this method is illustrated for loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) plantations.