Modeling individual tree growth using temporary plot records: evaluation of a non-parametric diameter distribution based method

We hypothesize that the change, over time, in deciles of a diameter at breast height (DBH) distribution represents a suitable proxy for repeated measurements of individual tree DBH. Based on that hypothesis a method is developed for modeling individual tree DBH growth from temporary plot data. The method assumes evenly distributed or no mortality and no reproduction that would be measured as ingrowth. The temporary plot based DBH projection results generally indicated reduced accuracy and greater bias than permanent plot based DBH projection results. However, some temporary plot based projection results were comparable to the permanent plot based results in terms of accuracy and bias measures. Based on the assumptions and results, the methodology is likely useful only for uniform, single-species plantations.