Why Determine a Tree's Diameter?:
Foresters use tree diameter measurements (along with heights of trees) when determining usable wood volume in standing trees. The tree's diameter is important to determine volume when trees are sold for pulp, lumber or hundreds of other volume determinations.
The Diameter Tape and Volume Tables:
Tree volume tables are developed to provide an estimated volume of wood in a standing tree for a certain product by simply measuring the diameter and height. Tables are typically developed with diameters listed along the right side of the matrix and heights along the top. Running the diameter row to the correct height column will give you the estimated wood volume.
Where is the Tree Diameter Measurement Taken?:
The traditional measurement is taken at diameter breast height (DBH) or 4.5 feet above ground.
How Do You Use a Tree Diameter Tape?:
A diameter tape has an inch scale and a diameter scale printed on a steel tape. The diameter scale side is determined by the formula, circumference divided by pi or 3.1416. You wrap the tape level around a tree's trunk at 4.5 feet (DBH) and read the diameter side of the tape for the tree diameter determination.
