“Models of tree and stand dynamics”: a differential journey through forest modelling

Abstract: Models of trees and stands exist since many decades, what nowadays has changed is our focus towards integrated forest ecosystem functioning. Managing forests in the 21st century requires efforts that go beyond empiricism. Annikki Makela and Harry T. Valentine’s new book “Models of tree and stand dynamics” (Springer Nature, Cham, 2020) shows the state-of-art for knowledge applied within forest models with useful practical applications. It is a textbook for graduates and scientists interested in process-based models of stand dynamics, growth and forest management. Models represent valuable tools for tackling issues like ecosystem carbon sequestration, helping us understand the economic implications of silvicultural interventions and providing insights on the impacts of climate change on forests. The textbook is a compendium of applied research that non-pure mathematicians can understand, interiorize and take advantage of for getting precious knowledge on forest functioning.