Forest Vegetation Simulator

The Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS) is a widely used growth and yield model system developed by the USDA Forest Service that simulates tree and stand development over multiple decades. FVS uses individual-tree growth models (not stand averages) parameterized for different forest regions, allowing realistic simulation of mixed-species, uneven-aged, and disturbed forests. It is used operationally for harvest planning, fire modeling, wildlife habitat assessment, and management scenario evaluation across U.S. forests.