Modeling dominant height growth using permanent plot data for Pinus brutia stands in the Eastern Mediterranean region

Aim of study: At current, forest management in the Eastern Mediterranean region is largely based on experience rather than on management plans. To support the development of such plans, this study develops and compares site index equations for pure even-aged Pinus brutia stands in Syria using base-age invariant techniques that realistically describe dominant height growth. Materials and methods: Data on top height and stand age were obtained in 2008 and 2016 from 80 permanent plots capturing the whole range of variation in site conditions, stand age and stand density. Both the Algebraic Difference Approach (ADA) and the Generalized Algebraic Difference Approach (GADA) were used to fit eight generalized algebraic difference equations in order to identify the one which describes the data best. For this, 61 permanent plots were used for model calibration and 19 plots for validation. Main results: According to both biological plausibility and model accuracy, the so-called Sloboda equation based on the GADA approach showed the best performance. Research highlights: The study provides a solid classification and comparison of Pinus brutia stands growing in the Eastern Mediterranean region and can thus be used to support sustainable forest management planning.