ISBN 978-4-905304-71-5

Reducing Emissions from Deforestation andforest Degradation and the Role of Conservation,
Sustainable Management of Forests and Enhancement

COOKBOOKANNEX

HOW TO MEASURE AND MONITOR FOREST CARBON

Research Manual Vol. 2
1.0 Biomass
Destructive DRAFT
SamplingVer.
for Tree
YUKAKO MONDA & YOSHIYUKI KIYONO

Research achievement of the 4th mid-term plan 2 (ForestREDD+Management
Technology-2)
Cookbook

1Preface
The basic concept of REDD-plus is to provide economic incentives such as funding andcredits to developing countries for REDD activities (reducing emissions from deforestationand forest degradation) and “plus” activities (reducing CO2 emissions and CO2 levels in theatmosphere by carbon sequestration). Thus, in order to estimate the changes in the amountof carbon stored in forests, monitoring using a scientific approach is essential.
The REDD Research and Development Center, Forestry and Forest Products ResearchInstitute, compiled “REDD-plus Cookbook” in 2012, an easy-to-understand technical manualthat provides basic knowledge and techniques required for REDD-plus, with the primary
focus on forest carbon monitoring methods. Knowledge and techniques required for REDDplus are compiled in units termed as “Recipe” in this REDD-plus Cookbook. This REDD-plus
Cookbook is intended for the policy makers working for the introduction of REDD-plus andthe practitioners and experts working on REDD-plus activities.
As REDD-plus Cookbook focuses on basic knowledge and techniques required for REDDplus, the experts working on REDD-plus activities will need further detailed informationin the field. Thus, we compiled “REDD-plus Cookbook Annex” to provide the experts withmore detailed and practical information in each “Recipe”. In this manual, specific measuringmethods are explained. In addition, this manual is intended to be used as a textbook forcapacity building. In order to have a better technological understanding on these topics, it isrecommended to read this manual in conjunction with REDD-plus Cookbook.
We hope this manual will contribute to the promotion of REDD-plus in several parts of theworld.

September, 2016
The REDD Research and Development Center
Forestry and Forest Products Research InstituteContents
1 Outline

1

1.1 Purpose of REDD-plus Cookbook Annex

1

1.2 How to use this manual

1

1.3 Recipes covered by REDD-plus Cookbook

1

2 What is destructive sampling2

2.1 Purpose of destructive sampling2

2.2 Measurement procedure2

2.3 Example of data calculation18

3 Appendix

20

3.1 Check list

20

3.2 Flow chart

21

3.3 Entry example of field note

24i

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX

1 Outline
1.1 Purpose of REDD-plus Cookbook Annex
REDD-plus Cookbook compiled in 2012 is an easy-to-understand technical manualthat provides basic knowledge and techniques required for REDD-plus, with the primary
focus on forest carbon monitoring methods. REDD-plus Cookbook explains the estimation
method of forest carbon stocks, while this manual explains, inter alia, inventory methods
focusing on the ground-based inventory needed to develop equations for estimating carbon
stocks per unit area.
This manual is intended for experts who will actually collect data on forest carbon stocks.
We hope this manual will also be useful for students studying forestry and forest ecology,
NGOs interested in REDD-plus, and people concerned in this field.
1.2 How to use this manual
The destructive sampling should be carefully planned, taking the risk of accident causedby the use of an excavation machine and a chainsaw into consideration. It is advisable tohave an overview of the survey process in advance from this manual when planning thedestructive sampling.
In this manual, Chapter 2 explains the number of staff and tools required for the survey
and then explains the specific survey procedure, and Chapter 3 introduces a check sheet
useful in the field.
Please see

TIPS

as for the points to consider in the field.

1.3 Recipes covered by REDD-plus Cookbook
Recipes covered by REDD-plus Cookbook are shown in [ ]. Please refer to REDD-plus
Cookbook.
REDD-plus Cookbook can be downloaded from the Website mentioned below.
http://redd.ffpri.affrc.go.jp/index_en.html

1Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass

2 What is destructive sampling
2.1 Purpose of destructive sampling
An important key for REDD+ is an accurate estimation of forest carbon stocks in the target
country. Carbon stocks in trees account for a large percentage of the forest carbon stocks inmost cases; therefore, it is necessary to know its amount. The methods for determining tree
biomass vary [Recipe-P10, P11], but, in most cases, estimation equations using allometry
are used [Recipe-T14]. In order to develop a better allometry equation, accurate biomass
data of a large number of trees, including trees with a large DBH, are essential. As biomass
data of the forest in question are available in the published data or previous studies, it isencouraged to actively utilize them. However, when very few data are available or the datalack accuracy, tree biomass data need to be collected. For this, destructive sampling coveredin this manual must be carried out.
2.2 Measurement procedure
2.2.1 Staff and tools
Here, the staff and tools required for the measurement are explained.
1) Number of staff required for destructive sampling (Table 1)
When carrying out the destructive sampling, the risk of accident caused by the use of achainsaw or an excavation machine should be taken into account. For safety reasons, it isdesirable that more than one staff who has an overview of the entire project be involved in
the survey. In addition, the measurement should be carefully planned to prevent an accident.
In addition, in order to ensure safety during the survey, it is important to make a plan that
includes much time to spare (Tight schedule is not recommended.).
Table 1 Number of staff required for destructive sampling
Role

Desired number of staff

Staff who have an overview of the entire projectAt least 2 staff

Excavation machine operator(s)As required

Chainsaw operator(s)As required

Assistant staff

5-6 staff

2) Tools required for selecting the felling trees
Select sample trees for destructive sampling. Tools shown in Table 2 and Photo 1 must be
prepared to record the size of sample trees (diameter, tree height, etc.) before felling down.

2

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX

In the field, first, measure the girth at breast height (GBH) using a steel measuring tapeand then record in a tally sheet. Then, convert the GBH into diameter at breast height (DBH).
Table 2 Tools required for selecting sample trees
Tool

NumberRemarks
For recording the size of sample trees

Digital camera

1-2

Tally sheet

2 setsClipboards

2

For data entry and as buck-up

Writing tools

2 setsFor data entry and as back-up

Steel measuring tape, 10 m(e.g., Vertex)
Marking tapecrown width

1 set
2 rolls(1) Tally sheet anddrawing board

For data entry and as back-up

To measure girth at breast height and3(Max. 10 m; min. unit 0.1 cm)
Measuring equipment for tree height

before felling down

(2) Steel measuring tape
(10 m)

To mark the selected trees(3) Equipment formeasuring tree height(Vertex)(4) Marking tapes

Photo 1 Tools required for selecting the felling trees

TIPS

A measuring tape that has different units on both sides such as a diameter tape measure
should not be used because it may result in confusion of girth with diameter.

3) Felling, digging, and dividing the felling trees
Tools required for felling down above-ground biomass, digging out below-ground biomass,and separating them to measure the weight of the sample trees are shown in Table 3 andPhoto 2.

3

調査マニュアル
Vol.Vol.
2 バイオマス測定のための破壊調査法
Research Manual
2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass
調査マニュアルVol. 2 バイオマス測定のための破壊調査法

表３ 選定木の伐採と掘り出し、解体に必要な道具一覧
Table表３
3 Tools
required for felling, digging, and separating sample trees
選定木の伐採と掘り出し、解体に必要な道具一覧

品Tool
名
品 名

数
量
Number数量エクスカベーター
Excavation machine
エクスカベーター

1台
1
1台

チェンソー
Chainsaw
チェンソー
手ノコ
Hand saw
手ノコ
Hoe and/or shovel
クワ
クワ
Tape
50
m measure,
メジャー50 m
50 m メジャー(Max.
0.10.1cm)cm）（Max 5050 m;m;min.
minunitunit（Max 50 m; min unit 0.1 cm）
Marking
chalk*
木材チョーク
木材チョークPruner剪定バサミ
剪定バサミWork glove
軍手
軍手
First-aid kit
救急箱
救急箱

1台
1
1台
5本
5
5本
2-3
2‑3
本
2‑3 本

備 考
Remarks
備 考
地下部バイオマスの掘り起こし・根のFor digging the below-ground biomass,
地下部バイオマスの掘り起こし・根のサンプリングのためのマウンド作成
preparing a mound for collecting roots
サンプリングのためのマウンド作成
伐採・玉切りFor felling and cross-cutting
伐採・玉切り細い幹と枝の切断
For cutting thin stems and branches
細い幹と枝の切断
For digging out roots
根の掘り取り
根の掘り取り3
3個
3個

幹長の測定・玉切り位置の測定
cutting position
幹長の測定・玉切り位置の測定

2020
本
20 本
3
3丁
3丁
as required
人数分
人数分
１箱
１箱

Including spare
印付け（予備込み）
印付け（予備込み）For cutting thin stems and branches
小枝などを切り刻む
小枝などを切り刻む
For all staff
刃物のケガ防止にもなる
刃物のケガ防止にもなる
For first-aid treatment
怪我などの応急処置のため怪我などの応急処置のため（1）エクスカベーター(1) Excavation machine（1）エクスカベーター（2）チェンソー(2) Chainaw（2）チェンソー（5）木材チョーク(5) Marking chalk（5）木材チョーク（6）剪定バサミ(6) Pruner（6）剪定バサミ

For measuring stem length and cross-（3）手ノコ(3) Hand saw（3）手ノコ（4）50
m measureメジャー(4) Tape（4）50m メジャー

選定木の伐採、掘り出し、解体に必要な道具
Photo 2写真２
Tools requiredfor cutting, digging, and dividing the felled trees
写真２
選定木の伐採、掘り出し、解体に必要な道具

TIPS
TIPS
TIPS

Thick and red chalks are desirable, as they are hard to break and conspicuous,
although it depends on the color of the bark.
木材チョークは太いものが折れにくい。樹皮などにもよるが、赤が見えやすい。
木材チョークは太いものが折れにくい。樹皮などにもよるが、赤が見えやすい。

4) Measuring weight of sample trees in the field (Table 4 and Photo 3)4）サンプルの重量測定
4）サンプルの重量測定
Measuring the weight of sample trees is the most important work in the survey. Power
選定木の重量測定は最も重要な調査項目である。破壊調査を実施する場所には電源が無い
選定木の重量測定は最も重要な調査項目である。破壊調査を実施する場所には電源が無い
supplyis often unavailable in the field. With this in mind, tools that run on batteries or a場合が多い。そのため測定機器は電池で動くものか、バネばかりなどの電源を必要としない
spring balance that does not require a power source should be prepared.
場合が多い。そのため測定機器は電池で動くものか、バネばかりなどの電源を必要としないものを選定する。
ものを選定する。
44
4

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX

Table 4 Tools required for weighing samples
Tool

NumberTarpaulin◦Large (e.g.,5.4 m × 5.4 m)

1-2 sheets◦Small (e.g.,1.8 m × 1.8 m)

4-5 sheets

Remarks
For separating tree components and forusing as tare

Rope
◦Sling (e.g., diameter 25 mm, length 1.5

2

or 3 m)◦Plastic rope (thick, 300 m)

For bundling2 rolls

Plastic bag (thick type)◦Large (e.g., 600 × 900 mm)

50 sheets◦Small (e.g., 300 × 500 mm)

50 sheets

Tare

Felt pen

10

Including spare

Paper bag

100

Tare

Stapler2

Staple2 boxes

Weighing equipment◦Spring balanceMax

300 kg(min unit 1 kg)

1

For weighing stems and roots

Max

50 kg

(min unit 500 g)

1

For weighing small organs

Max

30 kg

(min unit 500 g)

1

For weighing small organs

Max

10 kg

(min unit 100 g)

1

For weighing small organs

Max

5 kg

(min unit 50 g)

1

For weighing small organs

Max

2 kg

(min unit 20 g)

1

For weighing small organs

Max

1 kg

(min unit 10 g)

1

For weighing small organs

1

For weighing branches and leaves◦Electric spring balance(max 50 kg; min unit 5g)
Spare battery

5

As required

Bowl balance (max 2 kg)

1

Bar for hanging balance1

For an electric spring balance
See Photo 11

Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass(1) Tarpaulin(2) Sling(5) Electric spring balance(50 kg)(6) Spring balance (30 kg–1 kg)(3) Paper bag(4) Spring balance (300 kg)

Photo 3 Tools required for weighing tree samples

It should be noted that tarpaulin and plastic bags vary in weight, size, and material. During
the measurement, staff would be busy working at the study site. Therefore, data should berecorded in a simple way to avoid the omission of recording. For example, fewer types oftares are better to be used. It is desirable to weigh tares before weighing samples.

Deteriorated spring balance is often a source of error in measurement. It is necessary to

TIPS

check the condition of the spring balance before using it.

TIPS

placed directly into the drying oven.

It is advisable to collect the subsamples in a paper bag to bring them back, as they can be

6

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX

5) Measuring weight in laboratory
Carbon stocks used for REDD+ are estimated from dry weight. For this purpose, fresh
weight (containing water) measured in the destructive sampling must be converted into dry
weight. The ratio of the fresh and dry weight of samples collected at the study site is used
to convert fresh weight into dry weight. Thus, samples collected in the destructive sampling
are dried in a drying oven in the laboratory for measuring their dry weight. Tools required formeasuring the dry weight are shown in Table 5 and Photo 4.
Table 5 Tools required for weighing samples
Tool
Drying oven (forced-convection type)
Electrical balance(max 3000 g; min unit 0.1 g)

NumberRemarks

1

For drying sample

1

For weighing dry sample(1) Drying oven (forced-convection type)(2) Electrical balance

Photo 4 Equipment required for drying and measuring samples

TIPS

7

Do not place too much volume of samples in the drying oven to avoid increasing thetemperature in the oven or causing a fire.

Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass

2.2.2 Survey procedure
Here, the survey procedure of destructive sampling is explained. The destructive sampling
is divided into three phases.
Phase 1 Preparation for survey1) Information collection at the study site
(1) Collection and sorting of information gathered at the study site (e.g., administrative
district, universal transverse Mercator (UTM), elevation, and forest type)(2) Determination of species composition and tree size distribution
Examine the forest type, tree species composition, and tree size distribution at the studysite based on published articles or tree inventory data, and then determine the forest type tobe selected for destructive sampling.
Phase 2 Field work
1) Selection of trees to be felled(1) Selecting trees to be felled
Sample trees in the field should
be selected from dominant species
in suitable size based on DBH (DBHand H, if possible), ranging from thelargest size to the smallest and DBH≈ 5 cm. In particular, since the data of
the largest size of sample trees havea significant impact on the accuracy ofallometric equations, it is desirable toselect more than one tree.

Figure 1 Relationship between DBH and H

The total number of sample trees needed to develop an allometric equation is at least
20–30. The larger the number of individual trees, the more accurate allometric equations canbe developed. Destructive sampling is costly and time consuming, but staff will improve theirskills in the course of the survey. Therefore, at first, select a slightly larger amount of sample
trees and then adjust the number of trees in the course of the survey, taking account of thecost and time.
Figure 1 shows an example of selecting trees for biomass measurement. The standard

8

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX

size and size diversity in the selected forest type obtained based on the published andinventory data must be taken into account when selecting sample trees. If such data are
not available, a field survey to determine the tree inventory should be carried out before
selecting sample trees.

TIPS

TIPS

Avoid field work on a rainy day and windy day, as branches might fall down due to strong
winds.

In the field, work zone safety and heavy machine transportability are very important factors
in selecting sample trees.

(2) Measurement of crown width
Crown width should be measured before felling, because the crown will be broken by the
impact of felling. Measure major axis and its orthogonal-oriented diameter.
(3) Marking ground level on stump with chalk
A boundary line is chalk-marked on the stump as the ground level is difficult to identify
after felling.
2) Dividing above-ground biomass (AGB) into three components and measurement of fresh
weight in each component(1) Felling down of sample trees
A chainsaw operator should always be alert and aware of potential dangers, while otherstaff should stay in a safe place.

Photo 5 Measurement of stump height

Photo 6 Marking on main stump(2) Measurement of stump height (Photo 5)
Based on the ground-level height, measure the height of the felling point and record it.

9Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass(3) Marking on main stem (Photo 6)
When the stem is divided, the taller and larger stem will be the main stem. Mark the heightof 1.3 m from the ground level and at 2 m intervals from there until the top of the stem using
a 50-m measuring tape and chalk. A stem larger than 2 m in length might be heavier thanthe capacity of the balance (the weighing capacity of 300 kg will be used in this manual). The
length of the stem may change depending on the capacity of the balance. In some cases,
the stem length measured along the stem is greater than the tree height.

Photo 7 Measurement of stem girth atmarking points

Photo 8 Separation of branch frommain stem(4) Measurement of stem girth (Photo 7)
Measure the girth of the stem at the marking points. Measure the point where the lowest
living branch is derived from the main stem and its girth and height have to be recorded.
After the field work is completed, calculate the diameter of each tree using the girth of thestem (diameter = girth/π).
(5) Separation of stems and branches (Photo 8)
Separate all branches from the stem, sparing the leaves on the branches, using a
chainsaw. Separate the stems and branches to avoid confusing thin stems with branches.

Photo 9 Separation of leaves frombranches

Photo 10 Measurement of weight offresh leaves

10REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX(6) Separation of branches and leaves (Photo 9)
Separate leaves from branches on a tarpaulin. Sorting them on the tarpaulin is advisable,
as leaves and twigs scattered on the tarpaulin can be easily collected by folding thetarpaulin.
(7) Measurement of fresh weight of leaves and branches (Photos 10–12)
Measure the fresh weights of leaves (FWlf) and branches (FWbr) using a spring balance ora bowl balance. Record these weights (FWlf and FWbr) and the type of tare used.

TIPS

Leaves should be measured before measuring branches as leaves dry faster thanbranches.

Photo 11 Measurement of fresh weightof branches

Photo 12 Leaves and branches after
measuring fresh weight(8) Collection of subsamples
Leaf and branch subsamples should be randomly taken from the weighed leaves andbranches, respectively. Record the weight of each subsample and the type of tare used.
Place each subsample in a plastic bag labeled with the tree number and components (leaf orbranch). Keep the subsamples in the shade.
(9) Separation of stem (Photo 13)
Cut the stem at each marked point (1.3-m
height and 2-m intervals) using a chainsaw.
After separating the stem, write the tree number
and height of the cutting point on the base ofeach log immediately.
Photo 13 Separation of stem

11

Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass

Photo 14 Measurement of weight of fresh logs
using an excavation machine

Photo 15 Measurement of weight of freshlogs by hand(10) Measurement of weight of fresh logs (Photos 14 and 15)
Weigh fresh logs (stems) using an excavation machine, spring balance (max. 300 kg), andsling. If the log’s weight is greater than the capacity of the scale, cut the log into small pieces
and weigh each one and record the weights and the tare value. Thin stems and short stems
can be weighed by hand.
(11) Collection of stem subsamples (disk samples) for measuring weight (Photo 16)
Collect disk samples (5-cm thick) from the logs at regular intervals. Mark the tree number
and the height of each point (e.g., H 1.3 m, H 3.3 m, etc.) on each disk sample.
Weigh each disk sample, and record the fresh weights (FWst) individually. If a tare is used,record the type of tare used.

Photo 16 Disk samples

12

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX

4) Separation of below-ground biomass (BGB) and measurement of fresh weight (Photo 17)(1) Digging up of roots (Photo 17)
To expose the underground part of the stump, excavate around it using an excavation
machine. Excavation work is dangerous; therefore, keep safe distance from the radius of theworking range of the excavator’s arm. This should be informed to all staff before the work
starts.

TIPS

Small sample trees can be pushed down after digging around the stumps using an
excavator.

Photo 17 Digging with an excavator

Photo 18 Cleaning of stump(2) Clean the stump using hoe, etc. (Photo 18)
Place the dug-out stump on a safe place to remove soil. Soil should be removed
thoroughly; otherwise, roots heavier than actual weight will be measured.
(3) Measurement of stem girth at ground level (Photo 19)
Stem girth is measured using a steel measuring tape and recorded.
(4) Separation of stump at the ground level (Photo 20)
A stump is separated at the ground level into two parts using a chainsaw. The aboveground stump comprises the stem from 0 m to the felling point; the below-ground stump androots are defined as below-ground biomass. Determine and record the fresh weight of thesamples and the type of tare used.

13

Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass

Photo 19 Checking stem girth at the
ground level

Photo 20 Separation of above-ground stumpand below-ground stump(5) Pick up large-sized roots of the sample tree from excavated area (Photos 21 and 22).
Dig up soil around the stump of the felled tree to collect roots left in the ground. In general,most of the roots are in the crown projection area. When the crown projection area ofthe sample tree and that of adjacent tree overlap each other, determine the digging areaaccording to the size of the stem diameter of both trees. A primary root may grow deep into
the ground depending on soil conditions. Collect roots from the dug-up soil. When roots ofother trees are mixed in the dug-up soil, remove them, judging from the root bark and otherfactors. Carefully remove soil from the roots and place them on the tarpaulin.

Photo 21 Picked-up large-sized roots

TIPS

Photo 22 Cleaned root sample

Larger size of tarpaulin is useful when determining and recording fresh weight.

14

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX(6) Creation of mound (Photo 23)
In the field survey, some roots are left uncollected even when carefully picked up.
In particular, a large amount of roots are often left uncollected in trees with large DBH.
Therefore, the accurate value of below-ground biomass is complemented by estimating
the amount of uncollected roots. Make a mound with soil around the roots to estimate theamount of uncollected roots. In order to estimate the root volume, first mix uniformly soil
around the removed root using an excavator and then take out the soil from the pit to make amound. Next, level the mound surface to make the measurement of the soil volume easier.

Photo 23 Creation of mound(7) Calculation of mound volume (Photo 24)
Measure the areas of the upper and bottom

Photo 24 Measurement of moundi)sides and the height of the mound to determine thevolume of the mound. This procedure is necessary
when estimating the root weight in the entire mountfrom the root weight in the sample plot.

ii)

Measuring positions for determining the areasof the upper and bottom vary, depending on the
shape of the mound.
i) Elliptical; long and short spanii) Trapezoid; long side, short side, and theiii)height of trapezoidiii) Rectangle; two sides
Figure 2 Measuring point of area
calculation (solid lines) andmound height (dashed lines)

15

Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass(8) Collection of roots from mound (Photo 25)
Collecting all the roots in the mound requires a huge labor; therefore, the amount of rootsin the mound is estimated by collecting a part of roots in the mound and the mound volume.
First, create several sample plots (1 m × 1 m) on the mound depending on the size of themound and then measure the height of sample plots. In a large mound, increase the numberof sample plots. Measure the height of the sample plot and record it.
(9) Collection of roots from sample plot (Photo 26)
Carefully collect roots, including fine roots, from the soil in the sample plot. Do not collectroots of other trees or herbs. Determine the fresh weight of the roots in the sample plot (FWmr).
Record the FWmr and the type of tare used.

Photo 25 Creation of sample plot

Photo 26 Collection of roots from sample plot(10) Collection and weight measurement of below-ground subsample
Below-ground subsample is composed of large roots, below-ground stump, and root
sample collected from the mound. Select a subsample considering the weight balance of thecomponents, and then record the subsample’s fresh weight and the type of tare used.

16

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX

Phase 3 Laboratiry work
1) Drying of samples (Photo 27)(1) Immediately bring the collected subsamples to the laboratory to dry
If a drying oven (forced-convection type) is notavailable, the subsamples should be air-dried. To
prevent the subsamples from rotting during air-drying,
the room for drying the subsamples should be wellventilated.
Measure the weight of the heaviest subsamples
at intervals during the air-drying process. When theweight of the samples no longer changes, measure
Photo 27 Sample storage

all the weights of air-dried subsamples and record thetares used for them.

(2) Oven-drying in laboratory
If an appropriate oven is available, oven-dry subsamples for more than 3 days at an air
temperature of 70–90°C. Measure the weight of each oven-dried subsample and record
them.
When transporting the subsamples to other countries, prepare the necessary documents
for exporting and importing these items in accordance with laws and regulations of theexporting and importing countries.
• When sending or transporting samples to other countries, thoroughly remove soil,
insects, fungi, etc. from the samples before packing them. Root samples, in particular,
should be washed carefully with water. Place the samples in clean packing cases/bags to avoid contamination.
• Fully air-dried plant samples are allowed to bring into Japan without a permit.
However, sample plant name, component (stem or root or leaf), the purpose of use,etc. are asked at the import quarantine inspection. It is advisable to prepare for it inadvance.

17Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass

2.3 Example of data calculation
Calculate the entire biomass of the individual tree (dry weight) using the data recordedin the tally sheet and the weight of the sample dried in the laboratory. Then, convert the dryweight into carbon.
2.3.1 Conversion to dry weight of individual tree
Convert the fresh weight of each component into dry weight using the ratio of fresh anddry weight of samples.
Biomass of component (kg)= (fresh weight of component) × (dry weight of subsample) / (fresh weight of subsample)
Below-ground biomass consists of collected below-ground biomass (a portion of stump
below the ground and roots collected from dug-up soil) and estimated uncollected belowground biomass (which is converted from roots collected in the sampling plot on the mound).
The method of estimating uncollected below-ground biomass is explained in the next
paragraph.
The weight of subsamples is determined by subtracting the tare weight from the fresh anddry weight of subsamples recorded in the tally sheet.

Calculation example:
Calculate the dry/fresh weight of each component based on the weight of subsamples.
Stems → 4.74 ÷ 7.655 = 0.619
Branches → 1.568 ÷ 2.555 = 0.614
Leaves → 0.398 ÷ 1.205 = 0.330
Below-ground biomass → 1.78 ÷ 2.555 = 0.697
Calculate each component biomass.
Stem biomass = 2823.750 × 0.619 = 1747.9
Branch biomass = 520.300 × 0.614 = 319.5
Leaf biomass = 78.640 × 0.330 = 26.0
Below-ground biomass = (42.750 + 61.291) × 0.697 = 560.417* Tare weight (kg)Sling 1.0 m, 0.9; Sling 1.5 m, 1.35; Tarpaulin (S), 0.5; Tarpaulin (L), 4.5; Plastic bag (L),0.09; Plastic bag (S), 0.045; Paper bag, 0.02; Rope, Less than 0.01

18

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX

2.3.2 Below-ground biomass estimated from uncollected samples
First, calculate the volume of the mound, and then estimate the root biomass left in theentire mound by multiplying the root biomass collected from the sample plot by the ratio of
soil volume of the sample plot to that of the mound.
Calculation example:
Volume in elliptic cylindrical-shaped mound soil (m3)
= (Area of the ellipse, m2) × (Height of the mound, m)= (9.0 m2) × (0.517 m) = 4.653 m3
Here, two sample plots are created in one mound.
Weight of fresh roots in the entire mound (kg)
= (Weight of fresh roots collected from the sample plot, kg) × (Volume ofmound soil, m3/Volume of sample plot soil, m3)= (6.581 kg + 7.031 kg) × (4.653 m3 ÷ [0.517 m3 + 0.517 m3]) = 61.291 kg
2.3.3 Conversion from biomass to carbon
Convert to carbon by multiplying each biomass by 0.47 (2006 IPCC Guidelines for National
Greenhouse Gas Inventories).

19

Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass

3 Appendix
Here is a check sheet that is used to ensure that destructive sampling is carried out
without skipping any procedure in the field.
3.1 Check list
Yes

No

□

□

All size data (tree height, stem girth, crown width, etc.) are recorded in1.

the tally sheet.
(If not, write the reason in the remarks.)

2.

□

□

All fresh weights and type of tares used are recorded in the tally sheet.

3.

□

□

Tare weights are measured separately by types.

4.

□

□

Documents for exporting samples are prepared.

5.

□

□

Samples are fully air-dried.

6.

□

□

7.

□

□

Soil is washed down from the roots.

8.

□

□

Sample packing cases/bags are clean.

9.

□

□

Soil, insects, mold, and other components are not attached on thesamples.

The amount of sample volume (a total weight including the weight ofpacking boxes, number of packing boxes, etc.) is consistent with theamount that is allowed to export.

10.

□

□

Samples are species that are allowed to bring into the importing
country.

20

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX

3.2 Flow chart[Flow chart of field works]

Part 1 Tree selection andmeasurement before felling

Part 2 Fresh weight measurement ofabove-ground biomass (stem, branches,
and leaves)Tree selection• Selection from dominant species• Selecting suitable size

Cut tree with a chainsaw
Measure the height of felling point

Measurement of DBH (if possible,
DBH and H) of selected samplingtrees

Measurement of crown width

Chalk-marking of ground level on
stumpsMark the height points on the stem

• Mark at the point of 1.3 m from the ground level• Mark every 2 m from a point of 1.3-m height to the
top of the stem

Measure the height of the lowest living
branchMeasurement of stem girth at the marking
pointsMeasure girth at the height of the lowest
living branch

Remove all branches from the stem using a
chainsaw
Divide the leaves from the branches on a
tarpaulin

Weigh fresh leaves and branches
Pick leaf and branch subsamples
Weigh each subsample
Separate the main stem
• Cut at the marked position using a chainsaw
Weigh fresh logs
Pick stem subsamples (disk samples) andweigh them21

Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass

Part 3 Fresh weight measurement for below-groundbiomass (stump and roots)
Excavate around a stump using an excavation machine• Keep a safe distance from the excavation as working withan excavation machine is dangerous

Clean the stump using a hoe

Measure the stem girth at ground level

Divide the stump at the point of above- and below-groundlevel using a chainsaw

Weigh samples of the upper and lower ground-level parts• Upper ground-level parts comprise stems and are defined
as above-ground biomass (AGB)•Lower ground-level parts comprise roots and are defined
as below-ground biomass (BGB)

Excavate the root network & pick large-sized roots

Clean the roots and determine their fresh weights

Mound the dug up soil using an excavation machine

Measure the mound size (area and height)

Make a sampling plot (1 m × 1 m) on the mound• Measure the height of the sampling plot

Carefully collect the root samples from the sampling plot andweigh themCollect the below-ground subsamples and weigh them
• A below-ground subsample comprises roots, below-groundstump, and roots collected from the sampling plot

22

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX[Flow chart of laboratory works (drying process)]

If a drying oven (forced-convection type) is available
NO

YES

Oven-dry each sample at 70–90°C for >72 h

Weigh all samples and record the data

Air-dry the samples and prepare documents to send/transport
to other countries• Root samples: clean, then air-dry• Submit the required documents to the competent authorities

Send/transport subsamples to own country23Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass

3.3 Entry example of field note
The data obtained by destructive sampling are recorded in the common data entry sheet.
This will help find incomplete data in measurement in the field or omissions in entry.
3.3.1 Example of AGB data entry
ExampleTree No. 3

page�1/2

調査年月日 date22-Dec-2010

Terminalia tomentosa

Speacies

Kratie tower site

調査地 Location name
計測者 Surveyor

Monda

樹高H (m) Tree height22.6

胸高幹周GBH (cm) Girth breast height

131.9

伐採位置の高さHcut(m) Height of cut height

0.57

生枝下高HLB(m) Height of the lowest living branch

15.5

生枝下幹周(cm) Girth of the lowest living branch

70.8

樹冠幅 (m) Crown width

No.

Aboveground Biomass

0

Stem

9.3

Base side

Base side

Fresh weightsampling Height(m)Girth(cm)with tare(kg)

下端高さ

下端周囲長

0

157.0

Remarks

Tare

157

sling(1m+1.5m)

1

0.3

151.7

240

sling(1m+1.5m)

2

1.3

144.0

379

sling(1m+1.5m) ×2

384

sling(1m+1.5m)×2

3

3.3

143.0

4

5.3

133.0

345

5

7.3

118.0

266

sling(1m+1.5m)

6

9.3

110.0

240

sling(1m+1.5m)

7

11.3

99.0

231

sling(1m+1.5m)

sling(1m+1.5m)×2

8

13.3

98.5

171

sling(1m+1.5m)

9

15.3

94.1

156

sling(1m+1.5m)

10

17.3

76.5

119

sling(1m+1.5m)

1

55

rope

2

39

rope

3

33

rope

4

18

rope

1

49

tarpaulin(L)

2

21.5

tarpaulin(S)

3

44.5

rope

4

41

rope

5

41.3

rope

6

42

rope

7

44.5

rope

8

41.5

rope

Large size branches

5

Small branches

9

35.5

rope

10

19.5

rope

1

3.9

plastic bag(L)2

3.8

plastic bag(L)31.8plastic bag(L)42.3

plastic bag(L)55.3

plastic bag(L)6

4.5

plastic bag(L)75.8

plastic bag(L)85plastic bag(L)96.6

plastic bag(L)

10

3.6

plastic bag(L)Leaves22-Dec-2010
Fresh weight

Subsample
Stem

Large size Branches

5-Jan-2011
Tarewith tare(kg)6-Feb-2011

Air-dry weightOven-dry weight

(kg)

(kg)

H 1.3

7.65

plastic bag(S)

H 9.3

7.7

plastic bag(S)H 17.3

4.5

-

3.29

H 25.30.2-

0.0128

Tare

5.55
5.84

4.76

paper bagincl. small size branches

Small size Branches

2.6

plastic bag(S)1.93

1.5879 paper bag

Leaves

1.25

plastic bag(S)0.47

0.4177 paper bag

24

REDD-plus COOKBOOK ANNEX

3.3.1 Example of AGB data entry (continued)
Tree No. 3

page�2/2

調査年月日 date22-Dec-2010

Terminalia tomentosa

Speacies

Kratie tower site

調査地 Location name
計測者 Surveyor

Monda

Aboveground Biomass

Stem

樹高H (m) Tree height22.6

胸高幹周GBH (cm) Girth breast height

131.9

伐採位置の高さHcut(m) Height of cut height

0.57

生枝下高HLB(m) Height of the lowest living branch

15.5

生枝下幹周(cm) Girth of the lowest living branch

70.8

樹冠幅 (m) Crown width

9.3

Base side

Base side

Fresh weightsampling Height(m)Girth(cm)with tare(kg)Remarks

Tare

No.

下端高さ

下端周囲長

0

19.3

56.0

89

sling(1.5m)

1

21.3

41.0

51

sling(1m)

2

23.3

24.0

21.5

3

25.3

7.8

8

4

27.3

rope
incl. tip of stem

rope

5
6
7
8
9
10

Large size branches

1
2
3
4
5

Small branches

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

Leaves1

3.8

plastic bag(L)2

3.9

plastic bag(L)32.7

plastic bag(L)4

2.4plastic bag(L)55.9plastic bag(L)

6

7.45

plastic bag(L)75plastic bag(L)8

1.6plastic bag(L)95plastic bag(L)10Fresh weight

Subsample
Stem

Large size Branches
Small size Branches
Leaves25

with tare(kg)Tare

Air-dry weightOven-dry weight

(kg)

(kg)

Tare

Research Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass

3.3.2 Example of BGB data entry
ExampleTree No. 7

page

調査年月日 date19-Nov-2011

Shorea siamensis

Speacies

計測者 Surveyor

Fresh weight

Belowground biomass

Stumpand large roots

1/1

地際幹周G0(cm) Girth of ground level(height=0m)

188

Monda

Remarks

Tare

No.

with tare(kg)

1

183

stump

sling(1m+1.5m)

2

144

root

sling(1m+1.5m)

3

114

root

sling(1m+1.5m)

4

181

root

sling(1m+1.5m)

5

132

root

sling(1m+1.5m)

6
7
8
9
10

Mound roots

1

16.3

tarpaulin(S)

2

11.50

tarpaulin(S)3

Mound roots
Area

Shape

Mound1 ellipticalSide length or diameter(m)3.7 × 3.1

Mound2
Mound3HeightHeight of the mound(cm)Mound1 elliptical50, 55, 50

Mound2
Mound319-Nov-2011
Fresh weight

Subsample
Roots and stumpwith tare(kg)2.6

9-Mar-2011

12-Feb-2011
Tareplastic bag(S)Air-dry weightOven-dry weight

(kg)

(kg)

2.2

1.8

Tare

paper bag26

Authors
Editors
VersionCitation

Yukako Monda (Kyoto University)
Yoshiyuki Kiyono (Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute)
Tamotsu Sato & Masayoshi Takahashi
1.01enThis document may be cited as:
Monda Y, Kiyono Y (2016) REDD-plus Cookbook Annex. Research
Manual Vol. 2 Destructive Sampling for Tree Biomass. REDD Researchand Development Center, Forestry and Forest Products ResearchInstitute Japan, 26pp.