Volume table is defined as a table showing for a given species the average contents of trees, logs or sawn timber for one or more given dimensions. Table showing the volume of a given species for single or multiple dimensions. Given dimensions may be only dbh, dbh and height or dbh, height and some measure of form or taper of the tree.

The main object of volume table is to estimate the volume of an average standing tree of known dimensions. Based on the assumptions that the trees of the same species with the same dimensions will have the same volume. Thus, the volume table does not give exact volume of an individual tree because the volume of the individual tree may be different from the average, based on several individuals.

The choice of variables for volume tables depends on the extent of their intended application, simplicity, speed (money and time).

Single variable will show better estimation of tree volume in restricted zone only. It has limited use. Therefore, for larger area volume table, two variables are preferred. Volume table with three variables are more accurate. Among three variables, diameter is the most important, then height and last of all the form.

Thus,

• Single Variable: limited use
• Double Variable: Regional Use
• Multiple variable : National and Research use

Volume table will have different tables:

1. Table of basic average
2. Table of individual and aggregate checks
3. Table for under bark volume
4. Table for bark thickness or bark percentage
5. Other tables: diameter growth table, commercial volume table and conversion factor

Importance

• Easy to assess the volume of standing trees
• Easy to use
• The calculation is time/money/man power consuming and need extra instrument which volume table doesn’t need
• More convenient
• Easy to apply in field
• Measurements and calculation can be done simultaneously
• Standard to use
• Precision (up to .001)

Assumption of Volume table

The trees of the same species with the same dimensions (mainly diaand ht) will have same volumes. So the scope of its applicability is the sources of measurement on which average it is based on.

Limitations of its uses

• Same ht and diaof same trees doesn’t give same volume
• Volume tables have limited use depends on the locality, aspect, altitude (even for same species)
• Measurements also make differences to develop the volume table (so consideration of accuracy)
• Research works require more sample trees’ measurement
• Not use for accurate measurement of single tree
• Table is completely reliant on average ht and diaused todevelop volume tables