Application of China's National Forest Continuous Inventory database.

Area of Science:

• Forestry science
• Spatial database management
• Sustainable forest management

Background:

• Accurate forest inventory data is crucial for sustainable forest management.
• China's National Forest Continuous Inventory (NFCI) faces timeliness challenges due to 5-year inventory cycles.
• Existing data requires timely updates for effective forest resource assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the timeliness and accessibility of forest spatial database information.
• To develop methods for updating forest inventory data between periodic assessments.
• To improve public engagement in sustainable forest management planning.

Main Methods:

• Developed a forest growth simulation model for inter-inventory data updates.
• Created a 3D virtual reality system for visualizing forest landscapes.
• Implemented an internet publishing system using open-source WebGIS (UMN Map Server).

Main Results:

• A forest growth model effectively updates the spatial database between inventories.
• A 3D VR system aids in forest plan design and management visualization.
• An internet publishing system enhances data transparency and public participation.

Conclusions:

• The developed systems improve the timeliness and utility of forest spatial databases.
• Innovative approaches support more effective and participatory sustainable forest management.
• Enhanced data accessibility and visualization are key to modern forestry practices.