Methods to Estimate Total Forest Biomass for Extensive Forest Inventories

Book excerpt: Existing literature on procedures for estimating tree biomass for northeastern tree species includes a number of research studies that are specific and localized. As a result, there is little consistency in these estimation procedures, which are largely in the form of regression equations. In addition, many species are ignored that need to be quantified when inventories of forest resources are conducted over extensive areas. This makes it difficult to determine the most appropriate biomass-estimation procedures. In this paper, an evaluation is made of prediction models and their application over the entire range of northeastern tree species. Recommendations are also made on procedures for the more nontimber oriented elements of total forest biomass-shrub biomass, foliage biomass, stump and root biomass, and biomass on unproductive forest land.