Files
Abstract
The forest industry is eagerly adopting increasingly intensive silvicultural treatments, such as genetic improvement, complete weed control and multiple fertilizations, for its plantations in order to meet timber production demands. Such intensive treatments increase overall wood quantities; however, their effects on wood quality are not well known. A strong base of information on the wood properties of loblolly pine has been compiled in this study. This information was used in a search for individual tree models that describe as well as predict wood properties within a tree. Prediction models were developed for specific gravity and moisture content, two wood properties which are important measures of wood quality. This allows for the incorporation of quality and value variables into loblolly pine growth and yield prediction systems. Timber growers will be able to use these models in order to compare wood quality values between various silvicultural management regimes.