Estimating Biomass of Single Oak Trees Using Terrestrial Photogrammetry

Accurate estimation of forest biomass for assessment of the potential of forests to sequester atmospheric carbon is an important aspect in forest management. The present study aimed to estimate the biomass of single-stem Quercus brantii trees by using terrestrial photogrammetry as a nondestructive method.
The study was conducted in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province. First, 32 individual trees from different diameter classes were selected and two photos were taken for each tree in perpendicular directions. Then, the scale of each photo was calculated and the volume of different components of trees was determined (trunk, main branches, branches and foliage (Crown)). Density of each component was measured using data collected from field and laboratory analysis; and biomass of each component was measured. Estimated biomass from terrestrial photogrammetry method was compared with the actual biomass obtained from the field method.
Findings: Results showed that there is no significant difference between the terrestrial photogrammetry method and the field method, which is accurate method in order to evaluate biomass.
Discussion and This study showed that terrestrial photogrammetry for estimation of above ground biomass for single-stem Quercus brantii trees is an accurate and efficient method.