DHForest SA
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Growth Monitoring

Forestry in many cases is similar to any other business. The factory (the plantation) produces a product (timber). To be able to calculate the value of the current product and to create an estimation of the final harvest, growth models of the plantation must be created. To be able to make these growth models, yearly measurements are necessary, the so-called "Growth monitoring" of the plantation.

Although there are standard growth models for a species in a specific area of the world or country, it is DHForests experience that different growth models apply to every plantation. Even within the plantation, differences can be noted.

These differences can be observed in the growth-speed and / or the growth-form of the trees. Therefore DHForest develops unique growth models for every plantation. Insuring in this matter that predictions of growth and estimations of standing volume are adjusted to local conditions, making the figures more accurate.

DHForest establishes a web of fixed monitoring plots that statistically represent the growth for the complete plantation. The permanent plots are not marked in the field, making it impossible to manipulate plot data by favorable management. The plot site is fixed through GPS coordinates and is backed up by field measurements, linking the exact plot center to local reference points with compass degrees and lengths.

Besides the detailed data presented in our reports, many maps, tables and figures support our argumentation, in order to present a short but crystal clear report. This report can also be presented in an interactive way, if the client wishes so.

Along with the standard chapters of a report such as introduction, summary, conclusions, etc. a growth monitoring report elaborated by DHForest consists of the following:

* The objectives.

Before starting the growth monitoring process, some solid objectives are made in cooperation with our client. Statistical accuracy for example is one of the parameters that need to be established.

The Method.

A detailed description of the method of measurement and calculation is presented in the report. The volume functions that we use on a specific project, are unique and known to our clients. All our functions have a solid statistical base, as well as the amount of plots and their distribution. This all to insure sound figures for volume and growth calculations.

The Data

All the collected data from the plots are entered in a special designed computer program. This program calculates the forestry index figures on plot and tree level. The output of this program, in mdb format (MS Access), is analyzed with the use of Excel, and presented in a concluding way.

The results

The results of the measurements are presented per species, sector or sub-sector, conform the wishes of our client. If applicable, commercial growth, commercial volume or any other sylvicultural data is calculated and presented if the client indicates to do so.

The raw data

All raw data is presented in one of the appendixes.