Certified Forester Practice Exam

What does "ingrowth" refer to in forestry?

1. The total biomass of the stand

2. Growth of trees beyond a specific size threshold

3. The number of trees harvested

4. The overall mortality rate of trees

The correct answer is: Growth of trees beyond a specific size threshold

In forestry, "ingrowth" specifically refers to the growth of trees that have reached a designated size threshold, typically defined as the minimum diameter at breast height (DBH) for trees to be considered part of the stand. This concept is significant for forest management because it helps assess the regeneration and overall health of a forest. Ingrowth indicates that younger or smaller trees are successfully growing and establishing themselves within the stand, contributing to future forest dynamics and biodiversity. This term is distinct from other forestry concepts. For example, total biomass of the stand pertains to the aggregate weight of all living tree material, while the number of trees harvested relates to the logging operations and may not reflect ongoing growth. Overall mortality rate concentrates on the loss of trees over time, which again does not directly address the addition of new, growing trees that meet specified size criteria. Hence, ingrowth is an important indicator of a forest's potential for sustainability and productivity.