A matrix transition model for an uneven-aged, oak-hickory forest in the Missouri ozark highlands

We presented a matrix growth model for an uneven-aged, oak-hickory forest in the Ozark Highlands of Missouri. The model was developed to predict ingrowth, growth of surviving trees, and mortality by diameter class for a five-year period. Tree removal from management activities is accounted for in the model. We evaluated a progression of models from a static, fixed parameter to a dynamic, function form. The model was based on data from 366 0.2-arce permanent plots, measured over seven five-year periods from 1957 to 1992. Variables used in development of the dynamic model incvluded basal area of large trees (an index of competition) and number of trees per acre. models were evaluated using 92 reserved plots by comparing predicted and actual diameter-distribution over five- and thirty-five-year periods. Application of this matrix model requires only a DBH distrobution in tree per acre.