What is used to express site quality in Site Index?

Site Index is a measure that reflects the potential growth of trees in a specific location and is primarily based on the height of dominant or co-dominant trees in a given area at a specific age. It provides an indication of the site’s capacity to support tree growth, taking into account factors like soil fertility, moisture, and climate conditions.

The height of the trees provides a clear and quantifiable metric to assess how well tree species can thrive under given environmental conditions. By focusing on tree height, it allows for comparisons between different sites and can help in forestry management decisions, such as selecting the best areas for planting or assessing the overall health and productivity of a forest.

This understanding is fundamental in forestry and land management, as it assists in predicting future timber yields and growth potential, thereby aiding in strategic planning for sustainable timber production and conservation.