The Line Intersect Method in Forest Fuel Sampling

Abstract

Abstract A method for estimating wood volume on the ground is described. It requires only a diameter tally of pieces intersected by a sample line, and application of a simple formula. Theory for the formula is presented, and practical application discussed. The effect of bias in orientation of wood pieces can be largely overcome by running sample lines in two or more directions. The method was demonstrated indoors with match splints scattered on a 54-inch square and tested on a 20-acre cutover area. It has potential value for measuring fuel quantities in fire research.