Development of a stand-scale forest biodiversity index based on the state forest inventory

Ecological aspects are increasingly influencing silvicultural management. Estimating forest biodiversity has become one often major tools for evaluating management strategies. A stand-scale forest biodiversity index is developed, based on available data from the state forest inventory. The index combines aspects of forest structure, woody and herbal layer composition, and deadwood, as biodiversity indicators. The index is calculated by means of a score system following a standard procedure. It reflects the variability of forests in Flanders in a logical way and is sensitive enough to indicate changes for monitoring purposes.