Modeling of Tree Volume against Crown Area for Dalbergia sissoo Stand in Hariyarpur Community Forest of Nepal

Complex geographical features and forest inventory methods are more time consuming, expensive and labour-intensive. Therefore, development of model equation is important. To conduct this study, systematic sampling technique was adopted with 5% sample intensity. Tree volume was calculated from field inventory and crown area calculated from Google Earth imagery. R-Programme was used for data analysis and various tests (ANOVA, F-test and Z-test) were done for model validation. The best-fitted model of tree volume against the crown area for Dalbergia sissoo stand was obtained (Volume = A*Crown^2 + B*Crown + C) using Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) value 0.054 and Coefficient of Determination (R2) value 0.9125153. The trend of this model exhibits that volume distribution varied in direct proportion to the extent of crown cover area up to certain limit. With further increase in extent of crown area, the volume distribution shows an inverse relationship. This model can be used to predict the tree volume for Dalbergia sissoo stand of 15-20 years of age. This model, in turn, will be helpful for managers, planners, foresters and decision-makers for better management and utilization of Dalbergia sissoo forest.