Integration of climate drivers into growth modelling (AN3b)

Diversifying the species composition and structure of forest stands is often proposed as a solution to increase the resilience and resistance of forests to stressors. Yet, most existing models to predict forest growth and stand dynamics in Canada have been developed for even-aged, single-species stands. A Msc student, focusing on the Acadian forest sites, will have for objective to integrate climate drivers into the model framework of existing forest growth and yield models from the Prognosis/FVS family, improving our capacity to anticipate the effects of interactions between climate, stand composition and structure on growth. Model predictions will be verified using stand structure and growth rate combinations highlighted through the big data analysis undertaken in OB.7. Outcome: New model formulations for mixed-species, multi-cohort stands available via open source platforms to allow use and testing at additional sites.

Jamie Ring, MSc at University of British Columbia
Main Partner: Canadian Wood Fibre Centre, Department of Energy and Resource Development (New Brunswick)
Professor Bianca Eskelson
Collaborator Mathieu Fortin