Forest inventory update in Canada

Abstract

Modern forest management presents ever increasing demands for accurate and up-to-date forest inventory information. The process of inventory update is critical. Inventory update in Canada is examined including update for harvest, burns, insect and disease, silviculture, roads and other changes. The magnitude and requirements of the update task are documented. The procedures used are described and summarized by province in table form. Usage, advantages and disadvantages of current methods (e.g. conventional 9 × 9 aerial photography, supplemental aerial photography, satellite imagery, and aerial reconnaissance) are examined, new methods discussed and trends highlighted. Also outlined are issues related to the incorporation of silviculture and insect and disease information into inventories and the structure and responsibilities for update. Key words: forest inventory, inventory update, harvest, burns, insect and disease, blowdown, silviculture, aerial photography, satellite imagery, Global Positioning System, aerial reconnaissance, video