Process / pipelineForest Mensuration
Stand Density Index
The Stand Density Index (SDI), introduced by Reineke in 1933, is a dimensionless measure of forest density that accounts for both tree number and size. It expresses the number of trees per hectare in a stand, adjusted to a reference quadratic mean diameter (QMD) of 25 cm, providing a standardized metric for comparing tree density across different forest types and sizes. SDI is widely used in forest management to assess stocking levels and to guide thinning decisions.
Open in MethodMindSoonVideoSoon
Read the full method
Members only
Sign inSign in with a free account to read this section.
Sources
- Reineke, L. H. (1933). Perfecting a stand-density index for even-aged forests. Journal of Agricultural Research, 46(7), 627–638. link ↗
- Long, J. N. (1985). A practical approach to density management. The Forestry Chronicle, 61(1), 23–27. DOI: 10.5558/tfc61023-1 ↗