A COMPATIBLE HEIGHT PREDICTION AND PROJECTION SYSTEM FOR INDIVIDUAL TREES IN NATURAL, EVEN-AGED SHORTLEAF PINE STANDS

Methods for predicting the future total heights of shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata) trees given current total height, age, site index, current and future dbh are developed. The height projection equation is compatible with an equation that predicts total height given dbh, age, and site index which can be used to estimate total heights if values of previous total height are not known. However, the system predicts future total heights more precisely if previous values of total height are known. Parameter estimates for the system of two equations were obtained by applying seemingly unrelated nonlinear regressions to the system of two equations, which had unequal sample sizes and restrictions on equation parameters. The data were from remeasured plots located in natural, even-aged shortleaf pine stands, These equations can be used to predict the heights of individual trees in an individual tree growth and yield simulator or to predict the average heights associated with dbh classes in diameter distribution growth and yield systems or stand table projections.