A PARAMETER-BASED METHOD FOR DETERMINING THINNING INTENSITY

Abstract

A method for quantifying thinning intensity in experimental trials in even aged
stands is proposed. The method (ICN) is based on Assmann’s theory and assesses thinning
intensity in terms of percentage of basal area to be removed. According to the proposed
method, maximum stand basal area of an even-aged stand is expressed in terms of its
dominant height. The ICN index was used to quantify thinning intensity in an objective
and replicable manner in experimental comparisons among different thinning intensities in
black pine reforestations in Tuscany (Italy).