A Tree Quality Scoring System for Immature Loblolly Pine

A tree quality scoring system was developed for immature loblolly pines to simulate the subjective quality tree grades determined by experienced industrial foresters. The system was designed to be used either in the office via a computer algorithm, or in the field via a dichotomous key. Results showed that both computer and field key performed well in terms of precision, although the key was susceptible to a higher degree of user bias. Both methods produced consistent, or repeatable, results. The scoring system should be useful for precommercial thinning decisions. South. J. Appl. For. 21(1):24-27.