Above Ground

Trees — by mhowell — last modified 2007-03-02 17:48

Overstory trees: Virtually, all the registries require aboveground tree biomass estimation. This forest carbon pool has been measured frequently since this is the “merchantable timber” of the forester and the timber and paper industry. In-field inventory methods are standardized and well developed. There are also a number of available mathematical models as well as look-up tables.

Coarse Woody Debris — by mhowell — last modified 2007-03-07 12:34

Lying dead wood: This pool (also referred to as coarse woody debris or downed woody debris) is required by a number of registries and can be a substantial carbon pool. CWD is defined as the wood biomass that consists of logs and larger diameter branches >1 inch (2.5 cm) on the forest floor. CWD not only stores carbon but also provide habitat for plants, animals, and insects and is a slow release source of nutrients.