Using LiDAR-based Inventories to Evaluate the Impact of Silvicultural Practices on Forest Biomass

Forests are crucial in absorbing and storing carbon in land-based ecosystems, and their proper management is essential for mitigating climate change. This study assesses the influence of silvicultural systems on the amount of forest carbon in the Boundary Timber Supply Area (TSA) located in BC. The evaluation is based on enhanced forest inventories conducted using LiDAR technology. The methodology utilizes Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) to evaluate historical biomass dynamics in nine different silvicultural systems (SSs) and their regeneration after harvesting. Results show an average annual biomass increase of approximately 0.51 tons per hectare, underscoring the influence of silvicultural management on forest regeneration. Findings reveal a general inverse relationship between retention rates and regeneration rates across the SSs, with implications for forest carbon mitigation efforts. The study demonstrates that LiDAR analysis can augment in-situ measurements, contributing valuable parameters to harvest retention and regeneration across different silviculture systems. Advancements in allometric equations and improved data consistency and fusion are recommended to refine carbon assessments and inform forest management planning.