Forest Growth Analysis of Ulu Sat Forest Reserve

Abstract

A long term monitoring data of the dynamics changes on tree growth in Ulu Sat Forest Reserve, Kelantan was analysed. The growth plot was established in 1997 with status of poor forest. Permanent growth plot area was established to monitor the forest stands. Trees in the growth plot were measured every two years with various parameters include girth increment and tree height. Within sixteen years of observation, mean annual increment of trees in Ulu Sat Forest Reserve was at 0.33 cm/year. In general, mean DBH and tree height in this area was at 31.0 cm and 12.9 m respectively. Forest stands with DBH between 20-30 cm are majorly found in the area with 73 trees/ha. The non-dipterocarp species showed a significant decrease in terms of individual tree number when the diameter of the tree increases. Tree volume of non-dipterocarp species recorded at Ulu Sat Forest Reserve is 40 percent higher than dipterocarp species. Meanwhile, total basal area and tree volume contributed by dipterocarp species was 12.1 m2/ha and 227.0 m3/ha, respectively. Based on the enumeration and data analysis, this long term forest monitoring study is imperative to ensure each forest encompasses with adequate quantity of trees for future production, healthy in condition and could support the sustainability of forest ecosystem.