Measuring Butt Log and Middle Log Volume of Eucalyptus Camaldulensis Using Different Methods in Erbil Province

Abstract

Log volume estimation is an important matter in forest science research and forestry practice because precise estimates are required for commercial harvesting, sustainable forest management, and conservation. volume of each butt log and middle log of an individual tree at a 5-meter log length was calculated by using five different formulas (Newton`s, Smalian`s, Huber`s, Hossfeld`s, and Centroid method). The volume of the butt logs and middle logs was compared to the real volume (control), which was calculated by aggregating the volume measurements at (0.5) meters using Newton's method. Measurements were taken from 50 trees of (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) planted in Khabat area in Erbil governorate. The diameter at breast height (DBH) of the trees studied ranged from 30.2 to 75.6 cm, with total tree heights ranging from 13 to 27 meters. The result showed that Newton`s formula was superior to all other formulas for estimating butt log volume of Eucalyptus tree species plantation and Smalian`s formula was less accurate than other formulas. On the other hand, the Centroid method was superior to all other formulas for estimating the middle log volume of Eucalyptus tree species in the district of Khabat in Erbil province. Moreover, the Hossfeld formula was less accurate than other formulas. The benefit of the study is selecting the best formula or the most accurate one for specific tree species plantation.