A formulation of SILKS, a system yield table for sugi(Cryptomeria japonica D. Don) plantations in Kagoshima prefecture [Japan]
2006
Nagahama, T.(Kagoshima-ken. Government Office (Japan)) | Kondoh, H.
The thinning of sugi plantations has become an important policy issue for private forests in Kagoshima Prefecture. To help clarify the potential effects of thinning on forests, we evaluated the system yield table, SILKS, which can predict yields and simulate thinning based on the present condition of a stand. Furthermore, the model can reflect the management intentions of forestry engineers. The growth model used was based on a forest stand in Kagoshima Prefecture, and was derived by correlating stand density and yield. Inputs to the simulator included stand age, average height of dominant trees, and the stem number per hectare necessary for the ecosystem to function. After quantifying the quality of the stand, we simulated three different thinning methods and predicted the effect of each method on yield. These simulations provide forest owners with a visual depiction of the effects of thinning, thus leading to a better understanding of thinning management and easing forest management planning. The aim of SILKS is to provide as many prediction results as possible from little information. The system, which seems to satisfy the basic requirements for a yield table, should clarify the effects of thinning and help evaluate the economic merit of sugi plantations.
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