Using Stand Density Index (SDI) as a stocking guide in frequent fire forests
/Quantification of competition levels in forest stands benefits assessments of stand health, vulnerability to stressors, and prediction of future stand dynamics. Because different forests have different carrying capacities that can be maintained given differences in site productivities, it is important to consider stocking in terms that are relative to these maximum levels. Stand Density Index (SDI) is a common metric of competition in temperate forests of Western North America, originating in 1933 and gaining widespread use within the field of forestry throughout the 20th century. The authors of this study synthesized the large body of published literature on SDI since its introduction in 1933.
Chivhenge, E., D.G. Ray, A.R. Weiskittel, C.W. Woodall, and A.W. D’Amato. 2024. Evaluating the development and application of stand density index for the management of complex and adaptive forests. Current Forestry Reports 10: 133-152. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40725-024-00212-w
