Rapid Assessment of Risk Using Stand Density Indices

When management decisions are based on a stand density measure, there is always a risk that sampling error will result in an incorrect management choice. Estimating confidence limits and associated probabilities for many popular stand density measures is computationally difficult, and can require information that is difficult to obtain in practice. Here, we present an alternative method for rapid assessment of risk that is applicable to Reineke's stand density index, Wilson's relative spacing, Drew and Fiewelling's relative density index, and Curtis's relative density. The method requires an independent estimate of stand density, for example, from a growth and yield model or from a subjective assessment before actual measurement. The results, while inexact, are both easier to obtain and more conservative than those obtained by exact methods. West. J. Appl. For. 14(3):149-152.