GROWTH AND YIELD PREDICTION MODEL OF GAMAR (<em>GMELINA</em> <em>ARBOREA</em>) IN CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS, BANGLADESH

Abstract

Current growth estimation and future yield prediction models of gamar (Gmelina arborea) were studied using data from 171 plots in Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh. All plots were laid at well-stocked gamar plantations of every age class of 1-17 y. Twenty of the 171 sample plots were selected and kept separately to validate the growth and yield models. Data from the remaining 151 plots were used to formulate the models which include stand diameter and height function, number of trees per hectare prediction model, basal area and stand volume equation. The derived models would help to determine the optimal harvest age of gamar plantation and prescribe the best financial investment on forestry business with other competitive uses of land.