Research Library

Computer searching techniques used in combination with a three-dimensional forest visualization program provide an efficient method for exploring and analyzing large forest inventory databases. This paper describes and demonstrates a three-stage approach that combines visualization and searching tools. Using this technique, users can subset and rank stands according to filter and search criteria, refine and evaluate highly ranked stands using stand visualization, and finally evaluate summary statistics for the selected set of highly ranked stands. The approach can be used for objectives that range from facilitating basic exploration of inventory information to conducting analysis on forestry databases. Combining searching techniques and visualization places substantial responsibility for quality of the analysis on the user; however, the inherent transparency of the analysis makes it easy to judge whether the evaluation is applicable and meaningful to the questions being explored.