Development of volume tables for Populus nigra L. using a non-destructive sampling in the West Azerbaijan province of Iran

Document Type : Scientific article

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Tehran, I. R. Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Forests and Rangelands Research Department, West Azerbaijan Agriculture and Natural Resources Research and Education Center (AREEO), Urmia, I. R. Iran

3 Senior research expert, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Tehran, I. R. Iran

Abstract

Background and Objective: Given the restrictions on wood imports and the implementation of conservation policies in Iran, the expansion of poplar plantations has become a strategic imperative. West Azerbaijan province, ranking third in cultivation area, serves as a key hub for this industry; however, the lack of precise volume models remains a significant barrier to the scientific management of these resources. This study aimed to develop volume tables for the black poplar species (Populus nigra L.) using non-destructive methods. By providing a tool for accurate volume estimation and economic planning, this research not only strengthens wood self-sufficiency but also provides the necessary foundation for regional policy-making and the sustainable management of wood farming.
Material and Methods: In the first phase of this study, major Populus nigra stands were identified across the province, and 57 sample trees were selected from five distinct stands in the districts of Shahindezh, Urmia, and Khoy. A stratified random sampling approach was employed, focusing on diameter classes ranging from 10 to 30 cm, with five trees selected from different stands for each class. To estimate volume non-destructively, the diameter at breast height (DBH) and total height were measured. Additionally, upper-stem diameters were recorded at 2-meter intervals (up to a minimum diameter of 5 cm) on standing trees using a Leica D810 laser distance meter. The actual volume of the segments and the total trunk volume were then calculated using Smalian’s formula. To validate the accuracy of the laser measurements, 13 trees scheduled for felling were measured both before (using the Leica device) and after cutting (using a caliper), and the results were compared via a paired t-test, which confirmed the reliability of the non-destructive measurements. Finally, non-linear regression models, including seven single-factor (DBH-based) and nine two-factor (DBH and height-based) models, were fitted to the data. Model performance was evaluated using standard statistical indices, including the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), and the Willmott Index (WI), to select the optimal model. This systematic approach ensures high precision in predicting the standing volume of poplar plantations in the region.
Results: The results indicated that for the 57 selected trees, the mean diameter at breast height (DBH) was 19.9 cm, the mean total height was 17.9 m, and the mean actual trunk volume was 0.29 m³. The paired t-test demonstrated no significant difference between the diameter measurements obtained by the caliper and the Leica device, confirming that both instruments perform identically in measuring diameter. Based on the evaluation criteria for ranking the models, the Hohenadl-Krenn model was identified as the best-performing single-factor model, while the Takata model was the superior two-factor model. Consequently, these models were utilized to develop the single-factor and two-factor volume tables for Populus nigra L., respectively.
Conclusion: This research demonstrates that non-destructive methods are efficient tools for accurately collecting the parameters necessary for volume estimation while preserving tree health and preventing unnecessary felling. This approach not only reduces inventory costs and time but also enables continuous monitoring and optimized management of poplar plantations. Given that West Azerbaijan province possesses significant potential for poplar wood farming, access to accurate volume tables is vital for managerial and economic planning. Ultimately, by providing precise volume tables and emphasizing non-destructive techniques, this study represents a major step toward the sustainable management of poplar plantations in West Azerbaijan. It is expected that these findings will serve as a basis for informed and strategic decision-making in the expansion of wood farming, contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals for natural resources.

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References

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Forest Research and Development
Volume 12, Issue 1
June 2026
Pages 41-63

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