PAR Measurements Characterize Tree Coverages

The Center for Forest Research and Extension Andean Patagonian (CIEFAP) studies forest systems and land suitable for forestry in the Andean region of Patagonia, Argentina. The center does research to contribute to sustainable development in the Patagonian region. Recently, CIEFAP has been studying the relationship between tree coverage and the initial growth and survival of native Andean-Patagonian forest species.

The study is determining the percentage of PAR (under canopy/open sky) tree species are receiving to determine the percentage of PAR related to survival and initial growth. To do this study, CIEFAP measured under canopy PAR using an Apogee MQ-301 Line Quantum sensor and open sky PAR using a ceptometer at different sites and times of day.

The results are still being evaluated, however, CIEFAP has been able to determine that species receiving 50 to 60 % open sky PAR have the best survival and initial growth. Once the study is concluded, CIEFAP will be able to use its data to make recommendations for the restoration of degraded forests.