bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genotype and Population Performances and their Interactions for Growth of Coastal Douglas-Fir in Western Washington
Authors: Dean Christine A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The Washington Wide Adaptability study (WWA) is a series of genetic tests established in 1985 across Cascade, Longview, and Twin Harbors regions of western Washington, measured for diameter over-bark at 13 years (dbh13). WWA involves parents of coastal Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco var. menziesii) originally selected from wild populations in Cascade, Longview, Twin Harbors, and Vail. Female parents from each population were crossed using pollen-mixes from the same (“intra”) or different (“inter”) populations. Analyses of variance: Female parent (nested within population) accounted for around 2% of total variation in dbh13. Population of the female or male parents accounted for less than 1% variation. The most important genotype × environment (GE) component was female parent (within population) × genetic test (within region), accounting for around 2% variation. Other GE effects accounted for little or no variation. The female source × pollen source (genotype × genotype, GG) effect accounted for only 0.1% of variation in dbh13. Practical implications: GG and GE interactions for dbh13 do not appear sufficiently systematic or large enough to be of practical importance in breeding coastal Douglas-fir across these regions of western Washington, at least for growth to 13 years. It appears possible to select coastal Douglas-fir genotypes that produce strong, stable growth across this range of environments. Movement of improved seed across Cascade, Longview, and Twin Harbors can lead to positive outcomes for plantation productivity at 13 years. There appears little practical benefit in having separate breeding lines of coastal Douglas-fir for these regions. Indeed, strategies of developing local purebred genotypes tested and deployed solely in a local region would most likely deliver suboptimal genetic gain.
A Maximum Size-Density Relationship between Lorey's Mean Height and Trees per Hectare
Authors: Lynch Thomas B. , Wittwer Robert F. , Stevenson Douglas J. , Huebschmann Michael M. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
A linear relationship between the logarithm of Lorey's mean height and the logarithm of number of trees per hectare at maximum density can be derived from well known maximum size-density relationships associated with Reineke's stand density index and the power self-thinning principle. This leads to a system of three mathematically interrelated maximum size-density equations relating the three classically most important measures of tree size to density at its maximum. Given any two of these three equations, the third can be derived. Data obtained from unthinned control plots in a shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata Mill.) thinning study from Oklahoma are used to demonstrate these relationships. Slope estimates for the Reineke and Lorey maximum size-density lines are fitted simultaneously using three-stage least-squares with parameter constraints. First-difference models were used in the estimation procedure to reduce autocorrelation among remeasured plot data.
Common Law Liability for Landowners When Using Prescribed Fires on Private Forest Land in the Southern United States
Authors: Sun Changyou 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The potential liability associated with escaped fires has been a widespread concern to forest landowners when using prescribed fires on private forestland. In this study, common law for prescribed fires on forestland in the 13 southern states was analyzed by examining published legal cases. A thorough search on the legal database of Westlaw generated a list of 27 cases at the state appellate courts. Major characteristics of these cases were summarized by features such as state, year, ownership type, and liability of landowner. Furthermore, these cases were analyzed under three focus areas: negligence rules, strict liability, and vicarious liability. Overall, the standard of care associated with the reasonable prudent person has been required for the intentional use of fire on forestland with a lawful purpose. In the past, gross negligence rule and strict liability have not been applied in the South. Vicarious liability may become a chief concern for forest landowners in the future.
Emergy Synthesis of Intensive Eucalyptus Cultivation in São Paolo, Brazil
Authors: Romanelli T.L. , Cohen M.J. , Milan M. , Brown M.T. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
We used environmental accounting to evaluate high-intensity clonal eucalyptus production in São Paolo, Brazil, converting inputs (environmental, material, and labor) to emergy units so ecological efficiency could be compared on a common basis. Input data were compiled under three pH management scenarios (lime, ash, and sludge). The dominant emergy input is environmental work (transpired water, 58% of total emergy), followed by diesel (15%); most purchased emergy is invested during harvest (41.8% of 7-year production totals). Where recycled materials are used for pH amendment (ash or sludge instead of lime), we observe marked improvements in ecological efficiency; lime (raw) yielded the highest unit emergy value (UEV = emergy per unit energy in the product = 9.6E + 03 sej J−1), whereas using sludge and ash (recycled) reduced the UEV to 8.9E + 03 and 8.8E + 03 sej J−1, respectively. The emergy yield ratio was similarly affected, suggesting better ecological return on energy invested. Sensitivity of resource use to other operational modifications (e.g., decreased diesel, labor, or agrochemicals) was small (&lt;3% change). Emergy synthesis permits comparison of sustainability among forest production systems globally. This eucalyptus scheme shows the highest ecological efficiency of analyzed pulp production operations (UEV range = 1.1 to 3.6E + 04 sej J−1) despite high operational intensity.
Precision of Total Volume Estimates Resulting from Pseudo-Bayes Estimator for Stock Tables
Authors: Green Edwin J. , Clutter Michael 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
In an earlier article we presented a novel estimator for stand tables. The estimator performed much better than the usual estimator in simulation studies. In this article we extend the method to volume estimation, and demonstrate via simulation studies that total volume estimates from the pseudo-Bayes stand table estimator are superior to estimates derived from the usual stand table estimator. We also derive estimates for the variance and mean squared error of the pseudo-Bayes total volume estimator and approximate confidence intervals. The intervals based on the mean squared error have approximately correct coverage and are narrower than the usual confidence intervals.
Estimating Land Rent from the Market Value of Timberland
Authors: Mehrotra Shiv N. , Carter Douglas R. , Alavalapati Janaki 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Modeling empirical investment behavior of timber stand decision makers requires the use of market-generated information. Recent forestry literature has suggested that the available information on market valuations of timberland could be used to estimate empirical timberland rents as the opportunity cost. In this article we point out the fact that the market value of timberland comprises of the value of current market rent as well as values of speculated future market rents. We argue the importance of accounting for the values of speculated future rents, which could differ widely from the value of the current market rent.
Combining Tree- and Stand-Level Models: A New Approach to Growth Prediction
Authors: Yue Chaofang , Kohnle Ulrich , Hein Sebastian 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Approaches to combining information generated from different models are recognized for improving forecast quality. However, such an approach has not been developed for forest growth predictions. Therefore, a study was carried out to investigate the potential of combining models to forecast forest growth. A growth prediction system was developed for Norway spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karst.) by combining growth information generated from tree- and stand-level growth models parameterized from an identical data source. The tree-level model predicts relative tree diameter growth rates of a cumulative diameter distribution. The stand-level models predict absolute stand basal area growth. The combined prediction system consists of three basic steps: preliminary prediction, combination, and feedback modification. Preliminary predictions of stand basal area growth are generated annually from both types of growth models. The preliminary predictions are then combined on the basis of a variance and covariance method, and the combined estimator is used to update the growth models in a feedback procedure. In the tree-level growth model, the updated stand basal area is subsequently disaggregated to individual trees. On the basis of a validation data set, forecasts of stand basal area with the combined prediction system were shown to gain in efficiency from 14 to 43% compared with forecasts with the tree-level model alone and from 4 to 16% compared with projections with the stand-level model, depending on the length of the projection (5–30 years).
Regression Estimation Following the Square-Root Transformation of the Response
Authors: Gregoire Timothy G. , Lin Qi Feng , Boudreau Johnathan , Nelson Ross 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
In a variety of regression situations, there is interest in predicting the value of Y2, yet it is useful to model it using a square root transformation, such that Y rather than Y2 is regressed on one or more covariates. The back-transformation bias of the square root transformation of the response variable of interest is presented in detail. An unbiased estimator is presented: . Its performance is compared against that of two biased estimators: and . The first two moments of these estimators are derived analytically and verified by means of a simulation study. Both biased estimators have lower mean square errors than the unbiased estimator. An example wherein aboveground biomass is the response variable is presented for illustration.
Statistical Power of Intervention Analyses: Simulation and Empirical Application to Treated Lumber Prices
Authors: Prestemon Jeffrey P. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Timber product markets are subject to large shocks deriving from natural disturbances and policy shifts. Statistical modeling of shocks is often done to assess their economic importance. In this article, I simulate the statistical power of univariate and bivariate methods of shock detection using time series intervention models. Simulations show that bivariate methods are several times more statistically powerful than univariate methods when underlying series are nonstationary and potentially involved in cointegrating relationships. In an empirical application to detect the long-run price impacts of the voluntary phase-out of chromated copper arsenate in pressure-treating southern pine lumber for residential applications, I find the multivariate methods to be more powerful as well. I identify highly significant long-run price increases of 11% for two of three treated southern pine dimension lumber price series evaluated using multivariate approaches. The univariate method detected a long-run increase only for the third product, and the statistical significance was weak, although comparable, in magnitude to the first two products.
Multipath Mitigation under Forest Canopies: A Choke Ring Antenna Solution
Authors: Danskin Scott , Bettinger Pete , Jordan Thomas 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Evaluating the accuracy of global positioning system (GPS) receivers in applications under forest canopies has become an area of increasing interest. Reducing the error experienced by multipath present under forested conditions has also been a significant concern. We present results of assessing a choke ring antenna solution to the reduction of multipath effects under forest canopies. This system serves to increase the accuracy of positional fixes as well as provide a baseline for assessing multipath effects. We assessed these by comparing results to data collected by separate antenna configurations (yet same receiver) on varying slope positions and canopy conditions. Using a choke ring antenna, we found horizontal position accuracy of differentially corrected data to range from 0.32 to 0.88 m root mean square error reported at 95% confidence across a topographic gradient during leaf-on conditions. Under leaf-off conditions the horizontal position accuracy ranged from 0.35 to 0.69 m. Similar differentially corrected data collected using a standard beacon antenna showed that horizontal position accuracy ranged from 4.9 to 6.1 m during leaf-on conditions and from 3.3 to 5.8 m during leaf-off conditions. When sampled, the data from the two systems were collected within 1 minute of each other; thus, we assume a very similar plane and satellite arrangement. Coupled with topographic factors, a minimum multipath error effect could be determined for this receiver for given site conditions by taking the difference between the two levels of error.
Self-Organizing Map Analysis of Planted Soil Infiltration Systems for Treatment of Log Yard Runoff
Authors: Hedmark Åsa , Zhang Liang , Scholz Miklas , Aronsson Pär , Elowson Torbjörn 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Infiltration through a soil system planted with four different species was assessed as a sustainable treatment method for logyard runoff at a field-scale experimental site in Sweden. Runoff was infiltrated through soil planted with Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gärtner (common alder), Salix schwerinii × viminalis (willow variety “Gudrun”), Lolium perenne (L.) (rye grass), and Phalaris arundinacea (L.) (reed canary grass). Analyses of variance and t tests showed no significant differences in treatment when the different plants were compared with each other, and there were also no significant differences between the tree and the grass species. The infiltration treatment was effective in reducing total organic carbon and total phosphorus in the runoff even when the loads on the infiltration system increased over time. The self-organizing map (SOM) model was applied to assess the relationships between different water quality variables and to predict total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) concentrations. A supplementary correlation analysis confirmed the key relationships among variables revealed by the SOM. The SOM model performed very well in predicting TN and TP concentrations with the help of other water quality variables, which can be measured more cost effectively.
Legacy of Insect Defoliators: Increased Wind-Related Mortality Two Decades After a Spruce Budworm Outbreak
Authors: Taylor Sarah L. , MacLean David A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Effects of spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana Clem.) outbreaks on growth and survival of balsam fir (Abies balsamea [L.] Mill.) and spruce (Picea spp.) are well documented, but few studies extend beyond 10 years after defoliation ceased. We used inventory data from 106 permanent sample plots in &gt;50-year-old balsam fir stands in northern New Brunswick, Canada, to determine legacy effects of the 1969–1993 budworm outbreak on stand development up to 29 years after defoliation ceased. Defoliation data were from annual aerial surveys from 1945 to 1993 and plot ground sampling from 1985 to 1993. Plots were stratified into net stand volume development categories (decreasing, stable, and increasing 1985–2005 stemwood volume) and related to outbreak phases (outbreak, direct 1–10 years after defoliation ceased, and legacy &gt;10 years), outbreak severity (1–4 [low], 5–8 [medium], and 9–12 [high] years of defoliation), and stand age (mature and overmature). Stand age was an important factor influencing outbreak severity (e.g., r2 = 0.383, P &lt; 0.01). Trend and rate of volume development over time were related to past outbreak severity and increased rate of postoutbreak wind-related mortality, which peaked at 11 m3/ha/yr 11–15 years after defoliation ceased. Results indicate that aging postoutbreak stands are more vulnerable to wind disturbance events, effecting rapid stand decline.
An Accurate Approximation for Distance Distributions Arising in Airtanker Positioning and Related Problems
Authors: Provost Serge B. , Stanford David A. , Yu Kaiqi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
A moment-based methodology is proposed for approximating the distribution of the distance between two random points belonging to sets that are composed of convex polygons. The resulting density approximants are expressed as the product of a beta density function and a polynomial adjustment. Because points and line segments are merely polygons projected to lower dimensions, the method can readily be used to determine the distribution of the distance between a fixed point or a line segment and polygons. In this way, it is possible to determine the distribution of the distance from an airtanker base to an initial attack zone, represented by either a convex polygon or line segment. Several illustrative examples as well as applications to the distance between an airtanker's base and its initial attack zone, and between a transportation corridor and a wildland-urban interface are presented.
Describing Maritime Pine Diameter Distributions with Johnson's SB Distribution Using a New All-Parameter Recovery Approach
Authors: Fonseca Teresa Fidalgo , Marques Carlos Pacheco , Parresol Bernard R. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Forest growth and yield models that describe the heterogeneity of a stand by implicitly defining size classes are valuable tools for sustainable forest management. In stand-level growth and yield models, often stand tables representing numbers of trees by diameter class are projected through the use of probability density functions (PDFs). Theoretical knowledge shows and empirical studies corroborate that the four-parameter Johnson's SB PDF provides greater generality in fitting diameter distributions than many of the commonly applied PDFs in forestry, such as the beta, gamma, and Weibull PDFs. Distinct parameter estimation methods are available for the Johnson's SB distribution. However, few studies have been conducted that estimate the Johnson's SB PDF using a parameter recovery approach. Also, for those studies that have used a parameter recovery approach, often one (i.e., the location) or two (i.e., the location and the range) of the four parameters are assumed to be known. In this article, we present a parameter recovery approach to recover all four parameters of the Johnson's SB PDF for diameter distributions from stand variables. The location, range, and shape parameters are recovered from the median and the first three noncentral moments of the diameter distribution. The first two of these noncentral moments correspond to the average and quadratic mean diameter. The third moment is interpreted as the product of the mean diameter for the diameter distribution based on basal area, rather than stems per ha, and the squared quadratic mean diameter. The proposed methodology is demonstrated for maritime pine (Pinus pinaster Ait.) stands in Portugal.
Testing for Change in Structural Elements of Forest Inventories
Authors: Vokoun Melinda , Wear David , Abt Robert 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
In this article we develop a methodology to test for changes in the underlying relationships between measures of forest productivity (structural elements) and site characteristics, herein referred to as structural changes, using standard forest inventories. Changes in measures of forest growing stock volume and number of trees for both hardwood and softwood on forestland in North Carolina are evaluated using plot-level data aggregated at both the state and survey unit level from the last three available completed Forest Inventory and Analysis surveys using exploratory data analysis and nonparametric statistics. When the survey data are aggregated at the state level, we accept the null hypothesis of no discernible between-survey differences in the means of the forest productivity measures for at least 90% of the plots in each of the four models. We also accept the null hypothesis of no discernible between-survey differences in the variance or higher moments of these forest productivity measures for at least 82% of comparisons. At a finer scale, our results show that structural stability is questionable in the Coastal Plain units of North Carolina. Overall, results provide evidence of some structural change in the forests of North Carolina but do not address the causes of such changes. The systematic comparison of forest inventories conducted in this article constitutes a new approach to testing for structural changes in forest relationships, one that can be implemented as a monitoring protocol within standard repeated forest inventories.
Note on the Variance of Radial Sampling Strategies with Random Versus Purposively Located Pivot Points
Authors: Lynch Tomas B. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Several radial sampling strategies have recently been proposed, including sector sampling, radial line sampling for estimation of area of coverage, and radial line sampling for planar area estimation. These strategies are based on either sector or line samples that emanate from a common interior point (pivot point) within the land area to be sampled. It has usually been assumed that the pivot point will be purposively located so that its location will not be random. However, random location of the pivot point within the sampling area is conceptually possible, so that it is of interest to compare the variance of estimators with purposively located pivot points with those with randomly located pivot points. When this is done, it can be determined that the variance of the estimator with a randomly located pivot point is the expected value of the conditional (on pivot point location) variance of the estimator with respect to the distribution of possible pivot point locations. Thus, for instance, if each point in the area to be sampled is equally likely to be chosen, then the variance under a random pivot point location is the mean or expected value of the conditional variance with respect to every possible pivot point location within the sample area.
Short-Term Effects of Fuel Reduction Treatments on Herpetofauna from the Southeastern United States
Authors: Kilpatrick Eran S. , Waldrop Thomas A. , Lanham Joseph D. , Greenberg Cathryn H. , Contreras Tom H. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Path analysis of fuel reduction treatments on herpetofauna across four southeastern sites of the National Fire and Fire Surrogate Study provided quantitative evidence relating changes in vegetation and fuels to herpetofauna response. Fuel reduction treatments included prescribed burning (B), a mechanical treatment (M), mechanical treatment followed by prescribed burning (MB), and an untreated control (C). Treatment effects on herpetofauna response variables were predicted by the direct and indirect effects of stand basal area, coarse woody debris volume, native herb cover, and forest floor depth. Path models were solved for lizard, snake, and reptile response to fuel reduction treatments. Lizard and reptile abundance were higher in B and MB plots than in C and M plots. Increasing native herb cover best predicted lizard and reptile abundance within B and MB plots. Native herb cover, lizard, and reptile abundance were highest in B and MB plots, and each of these response variables responded positively to B and MB.