COMPARISON OF MODERN FOREST INVENTORY METHOD WITH THE COMMON METHOD FOR MANAGEMENT OF TROPICAL RAINFOREST IN THE PERUVIAN AMAZON

Abstract

Electronic devices consisting of field computer, laser rangefinder, electronic compass and global positioning system unit were used for data collection in the tropical rainforest of the Peruvian Amazon with the objective of comparing forest inventory methods. Forest stand was studied by mapping trees to obtain spatial dimensions and basic tree characteristics. The inventory conducted on 200 ha of forest in the Loreto Department were compared with inventory conducted using the common method (tapes and mechanical compasses). A map of the study site was created. Attributes of all trees with diameter at breast height (dbh) ≥ 400 mm were recorded: position, species, total height, trunk height and dbh. The study showed that the method using electronic devices was more exact and faster. The difference in timber stock measured by both inventories was 24.5 m³ ha^-1. Our results may play an important economic role in forest planning and management in the region. Mitigation of the inaccuracies in inventories may weaken illegal logging in the Peruvian Amazon.