This technical report assesses the potential for future growth of single-species forest plantations of Astronium graveolens, a native tree species, at a GWM site in Golfito Canton, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica. It provides background on the location, climate, soils, and characteristics of A. graveolens. While data is limited compared to other species, some studies have found mean annual increments of 4-7 cubic meters per hectare in Costa Rica. Establishing plantations of this native species could help meet demand for its valuable timber, reduce pressure on natural forests, and restore landscapes. The report collects available remote data to provide a preliminary estimate of site productivity and suitability prior to establishing

1. Technical Report
Assessment of future potential growth of single
species forest plantation of Astronium graveolens
at a GWM site
Golfito Canton
Puntarenas Province
Costa Rica
Version 2, 21-03-2012

2. Table of Contents
A few useful terms
I ntroduct ion and
.3
rillionalc
...............•... ,
Location
,
7
,
,
7
Native species plantations
The tree species in quesuon
"
Diseases ..,,,,,
,
Climate
"
"
,
8
9
,1
,
Climatic wurcr balance
.
I, rcc."rpuauon
"
,
10
"
,
I0
10
,
,,
Temperature
,
,
,.."",
,
"
11
,
, ,
"
,
11
Tomlin and topography
16
Future plantation growth potential.
21"
Assumptions lind cuveats
,
22
,..
,
22
GIS and IT
Future document updates
,
,
,
Bibliography and References
Acknowledgements
A.99yool.n!
,
this dOCl1111ent
4
GWMgrowth
1I""'ln901
22
28
,
SOf1"'.lJ'C 1"esourt:os
About
, .
10
Evapotrunspirntion
Soils
"
8
•. ",.,..
,
,
,
,
,.32
33
.33
Page 2

3. A few useful terms
Agroforestry plantation: briefly, a combination of a tree species plantation at the
higher structural layer with a perennial or annual plant at the ground layer. and/or
with Incorporation of beekeeping (ex. for acacia nower honey) and animal farming.
such as caUle grazing. The general objective is to have a multipurpose system with
many products, while also Increasing both structural and species diversity in
comparison to a singe species agricultural system. and thus Increasing
sustainability
MAl: Mean Annual Increment. the mean annual variable growth per stand hectare
PAl: Periodic Annual Increment. periodic (annual) change on variable growth per
plantation hectare, per stand hectare
Wood volume until 10 cm or 12cm diameter Inside bark: the stem wood volume
produced with the upper (higher on the tree top) diameter to be 10 em without bark
Vob: Volume outside bark, that is volume with bark (MAl Vob and PAl Vob
accordingly) measured in cubic meters per stand hectare
Basal Area: with the assumption that trees are cyclic perpendicularly. the surface of
a cross section of the stand trees (here per hectare). measured in square meters in
our case
TPHa: Trees per hectare, the number of trees planted or standing per stand area
for a given time period
Total biomass: the biomass of the tree, with branches, leaves, twigs, bark and
coarse roots, measured in tonnes per hectare
DBH: Diameter at Breast Height. diameter of a tree measured at 1.35 meters height
Mean DBH: Mean Diameter at Breast Height -per hectare, per stand, or per tree
C02: carbon dioxide amount that is is absorbed by plants during their growth
RNG:Random number generation: commonly also referred as RNG, it Is the result
of several mathematical/statistical procedures to generate numbers according to a
specific distribution or pattem
Linear function: A mathematical and statistical term. meaning that 2 or more
variables are related with a linear function when the increase of one of these
variables, results to the increase of the other(s)
Non linear function: A mathematical and statistical term, meaning in rough the
opposite of the linear function explained above: that if two or more variables are
related ncn-Ilnearly, the increase of one may resuit In an asymmetric change of the
otherts).
A, gravtOI!lIl'
4
GWMgrowth
(I""'lne",
Page 3

4. Genfll'ill overview of I.h0.GI;VM site locatlon
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GWM Site near
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Puntarenas Region
CostaRica
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6. General overview of Golfo Dulce, Puntarenas, Costa Rica

7. Introduction and rationale
Agriculture and agricultural Investmenls of annual or seasonal crops, In their commercial and
Intensive forms, eilher of small or larger scale, while providing the world's tiber and food. are also
examined on their susiainabillty In the medium or short lerm, regarding C02 emissions, erosion,
hydrology and several other environmental issues. And practice has demonstrated, that following
certain good management practices, many economic, sociat and environmental goals can be
satisfied simultaneously. For example, while water or wind erosion can be caused from deep
plowing of agricultural lands and no field cover. surface plowing or mlnimat plowing and partial
ground cover, reduce such effects. And while certain crops require significant water Inputs, others
more adapted to each particular site may require less. Plus, Irrigation scheduling and crop water
satisfaction models also work towards the sustalnabillty of water use. Also, one major Issue
attributed to ptowlng agriculture, is sometimes the reduction of soil nutrients and organic maUer.
Another way to overcome this Is, when feasible, plant tree species either in co-existence with
annual crops (which is called agroforestry) or depending on the nature of the management, Invest
In timber and biomass production by growing trees solely. Such practice has many benefits to the
tocal structural and species biodiversity, hydrology, micro-climate. Increases organic matler
deposition by tree litter-fail and thus benefits soli overall, usually does not require even surface
plowing after site preparation and Iree establishment; plus, reacts as a protection measure to wind
or water soli erosion. Especially when native
species plantations are established, the
environmental services provided reach a higher level, since such efforts are considered as a man
made restoration of landscapes with natural vegetation. And these are Just a few of the benefits of
tree plantations. While cash crops generate Income annually, biomass or timber plantations have a
much longer lifespan. A discussed advantage is thai tree plantations In limes when there Is no
damand andlor low price for the end product, can be left aside, managed and harvested when lhe
market conditions are favorable, while at the same time they continue to grow and thus having a
positive increase in end product quantity and quality.
Fiber and food production are subjects of small or large Investments In the primary sector, either
from small or larger land holders. Whilst these lnvestrnents appear a profitable solution for many,
their returns always depend on the natural variability which innuences drastically the site
productivity and thus any production.
Usually, before any field trials and studtes or tests of tree plantation establishment (which may take
a considerable amount of time to materialize), It is desirable to remotely collect, without any field
visits or field assessments, as much data as possible and make a rough estimation of the tree farm
productivity, in order to present risks and benefits of future investments. This is the need that this
technical report tries to cover: a prior to site establishment and planting. rough estimation of site
productivity and suitability. to be compared then, with the expert opinion and forest projections of
GWM engineers and field foresters alike.
Location
Costa Rica, located between 8 to 12 degrees North of the Equator, is widely known for its natural
wealth and ecosystems and parks. This biodiversity rich country hosts several research centers and
projects studying natural habitats, their management, and also agriculture and forestry production.
Southwestern Costa Rica, where the site under axamination is located. has generally very good
conditions for tree growth. As in many other countries in the tropics, due to plant characteristics,
climate and soil conditions, tree growth can be remarkably higher than in other parts of the world.
The soil and climate conditions are Ideal for the primary sector, and sometimes the relatively lower
quality lands for Intensive crop production can be preferred for agroforestry or forestry use.
AI qrAv,ol,ns
~GWM growlh o"ollmont
Pag.1

8. The specific GWM site. is located very close to the southwestern. Pacific coast of Costa Rica. at the
Canton of Golflto. near the City and airport of Golflto. nested in the Inner side of Golfo Dulce (Dulce
Golf). Less than 2 kilometers on the southwest flows the Rio Coto Coronado river. while the sea
shore of Golfo Dulce is a few kilometers away. It Is a hilly. low altitude area (70-200 meters above
sea level) covered with vegetation and forest meadows. The property covers 170 hectares
approximately. with moderate hili slopes. The climate is tropical, with more than 3500 mm of
precipitation failing annually, while mean monthly temperature per year varies between 22-28
degrees CelSius.
Native species plantations
Plantations in their majority are made from species non-native to the country they are established.
but come from similar ecologic environments, but even non native species plantations provide a
range of environmental and soclo-economlc benefits, In addition to the production of biomass and
timber, or other forest products. It Is widely discussed that tree orchard agriculture. or forestry
plantations under certain management regimes, can provide several addltlonal benefits to the
environment and society. A good praclice from a biodiversity perspective, It to plant nalive species
In forestry plantations, since this is actually a man made restoration of natural forest vegetation
which also provides soclo-economlc benefits. at an area which was previously grazing. agricultural
or mining land.
So. recognizing the benefits of forestry plantations. forestry management and research focuses
also on the creation of man-made ecosystems that mimic and are very similar to natural
ecosystems. but also provide the required fiber and economic benefits. Planting native tree species.
or a combination of plant species, Is one of the ways used towards Increasing sustalnabllity of tree
plantations.
Native forest species which have not been reproduced and used in such management conditions
and are recently Introduced to forestry plantation use. usually have a wider genetic variability. and
thus morphologicat growth. and generally their behavior In plantations Is now being studied.
The tree species In question
Astronlurn graveolens Jack.. or Astronium Fraxlnlfollum sceu., is a broadleaved tree species (16)
with habitat from Mexico all the way to Brazil (16.17) and Argentina (4). Its common name in Costa
Rica is ron-ron (27). while also called diomate. and has many other common names In Central
American countries. In Brazil It Is commonly called as Goncalo-alves (16) while there are other
genus of that species attracting interest In their growth patterns (5.6). It has great genetic variability,
and there are many other species of the genus Astronlum occurring In Central and South
America(5.6), and there have been several efforts to concentrate and classify all the Information
about the genus (17).
Its a late pioneer or a secondary succession species, depending on the literature reviewed from
various geographic regions. However. for Central America and speciOcaily Costa Rica. this Is
considered a slow growing pioneer species. which is moderately shade intolerant as an adult. while
It needs a lot of sun radiation during early growth. As reported by certain authors, it can survive at
canopies dominated by TermlnaUaamazonia In mixed species plantings (28) or other mixtures (22).
That is. although It is a sun loving. slow growing species. It tolerates shade and persists on the
understory having low mortality levels on forest plantations dominated on the upper canopy layer
by Termlnalla amazonia (28). This in turn. creates a practical basis to assume its potential to grow
in mixed species plantings.
A, gray,ol.n&
• GWM growth ~I.,••m'fll
Page 8

9. In fact, there are various approaches on tha silviculture of the species as regards to tree
plantations. Some authors recommend that its slow growth and branching habit make It unsuitable
for single species plantations (26), while others have carried field trials with single species
plantations with high Increments, us wood properties and density (0.85 up to more than 1.2 for
certain species of the genus) ctassify It as a valuable timber, while It has atso high catorlfic value as
fuet-wood.
It has been Identified as one of the species tested for reforestation In Costa Rica (26), but the
experimentation and thus data and information avaitable for the species Is not as extended as other
native of exotic species in the country (Terminalla amazonia or Tectona grandls), which are ptanted
In a larger scale, in the Region of Puntarenas and elsewhere. Its occurring In the wider locat area
(ex. Rio Grande de Terraba) (27) In natural forests, and that Is a sign of general species adaptability
to the location.
Its wood is highly appreciated for its technical and appearance characteristics, and harvested In Its
natural or man Influenced habitats, and there is a recognized need for its conservation (17) and
protection, due to Increased harvesting as reported. Therefore, here Is a major biodiversity benefit
In case of Investments In forestry plantations with Astronium graveolens: the species will be
replanted and thus future natural regeneration to area converted to forest by the establishment of
native species plantations; plus the pressure for logging the species will be removed from natural
forests and protected areas, and soolal demand may rely on the forestry plantations for this timber
resource.
In agricultural tands, there are reports of Astronlum graveolens grown from coffee farmers as a
shade tree at wide spacings, 6 by 6 meters or more. Sometimes Astronlum trees In coffee farms
come from natural regeneration, other times are planted. In plantations, single species plantings In
Costa Rica report a mean annual increment of 4-7 cubic meters per hectare (26, and citations
within) in certain tocations.
Diseases
As a naturally occurring species, and without extensive plantation occurrence, one may assume
that Its native pests and diseases are fewer than these of Intensively cultivated species (such as
agriculturat cash crops or widely planted commercial timber species). In a recent study for plant
diseases published on 2007 (14), there are 6 Insects and 6 pathogens reported for the species, but
the geographic occurrence of them is In other regions (14) than Puntarenas, where this GWM site Is
located. Also, there were no references in the literature for ron-ron diseases and damage to
plantations. Also, In nature studies related to the species, an 85%-90% mortality (26, 28) Is reported
for severat years In plantations with low levels (28) of management Input.
A. graV.91.nl
• GWM growth (l""'m9rll
Pag.9

10. Climate
Climate and solis are two natural factors of crucial Importance for plant growth, and this Is why they
are examined In as much detail as possible for this report. There are several sources of climatic
and meteorological data, and for our assessment focus was given on the local data sources
available from the Insituto Meteorologlco Nacional (IMN), of the Mlnlsterlo de Ambiente, Energla
Telecomunicaciones (MINAET). Specifically, either local station data (44), and/or Meteorological
bulletins (40), and also climate maps (39, 45) were used as the primary data sources . These
original data sources were then used to derive other climate variables. such as evapotrasnpiratlon
(1,42), several bloclimatic Indicators (42, 52), and also to Interpolate the climate for the GWM site
location.
Climatic water balance
Climatic water balance presents In a quantitative manner the relalion between water Input and
output entirely based on climate variables. Although based In the site Indexing methods foliowed
the climatic water batance Is not required as all Indicator variabte white precipitation level and
seasonal distribution is considered Important for the species, we Included this variable In our
calculations since It can be used to estimate the temporal occurrence of xeric events.
For example, as can be seen on several graphs of this report, there are certain months of the year
that Climatic Water Balance is negative, which Is an Indicator of relatively xeric events. Astronlum
graveolens occurs in areas with extended dry periods, and/or in geographic areas with receive
much less precipitation than this site close to Golfito, Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
Such climatic water balance equations could also form the basis to develop a system after tree
establishment to derive plantation specific Water Satisfaction Index which can be frequently
updated based on collected weather data.
Precipitation
Astronium graveolens Is usually a species of the dry forests of Costa Rica and Central America, but
can grow well on higher precipitation tropical forest sites. Is less prone to xeric events and droughts
than other native forest species used in plantations. and the higher precipitation level at this GWM
site can cover well species water resources needs. There are reports of Ron-ron growth in Rio
Grande de Terraba (27), which is located norther than this GWM site, but has similar precipitation
conditions.
Precipitation was examined simultaneously with other climate variables and indexes. Precipitation
varies In the wider geographic area from approximately 4000 to 5000 mm every year, while a
relatively dry period occurs for 2-4 months, as presented In graphical representations. Furthermore,
as a secondary, proxy variable for defining the site suitability we have used the Climatic Water
Balance, to estimate the seasonal distribution of xeric events.
Temperature
Temperature levels are within the habitat suitability for the species, based on the data sources
reviewed. Interpolated data for minimum, maximum and mean temperature was analyzed and
visually represented, and then compared with the upper and lower thresholds for the growing period
of the species. As common sense Implies, since the species Is naturally growing In the wider
A, gray.oltn, . GWM growth 018.",n9rll
Paoe 10

11. geographic area. the temperature levels (and generally climate) have at least a minimal agreement
with the species requirements for growth.
Additionally. satellite data (Landsat ETM Thermal Band) (31. 33) was used to examine the spatial
distribution of temperature at a high resolution (60x60 meters) to have an overview of the variance
of temperature at the wider site geographic location at the given temporal point o( satellite overpass
(31. 33). Such analysis can be soen at the relevant maps published In this report.
Evapotranspiration
This variable is integrated Inside the Climatic Water Balance calculations. since It is one of the most
Important figures when assessing plant growth. Evapotranspiration (1) Is usually less than
precipitation (or the most months of the year (or the location examined. and In surpasses that
variable (or a short xeric period or the year. This is In agreement with rough Astronium graveolens
requirements (or precipitation deficits.
Evapotranspiration calculations (1) are made using as Input the climatic data available (or Costa
Rica (39. 40. 44. 45). Analytioal graphical presentations are provided In this technical report. In
order to visually present to readers this variable.
Also. the Incorporation of this variable to other bloclimatic Indicators using as guideline previous
scientific work (52) was made to help towards the appreciation of the location conditions for plant
organism growth.
Soils
As In the maps and data reviewed from Costa Rica (41). soils in our area belong at the Ultlsols (59)
order according to the USDA ctassntcatlon system. suborder Typic Tropohumulls (41). which are
deep and well drained ullisols. This is something also noted from local sources(41) where it Is
reported that soli In this area are deep (profundo), with clayey structure. The local classification lor
this order of the sons is similar to Latosol Pardo Amarelo.
Various forest plantations projects have been carried out in similar soil groups. and although
Uilisois or Latosols are considered with low fertility for direct Intensive agricultural use, are
considered suitable for agro(orestry or forestry use. The moderately heavy clayey structure of the
site soils can create some limiting conditions (or stand growth. since ron-ron grows optimally In
alluvial and well drained sites (57). Forestry plantations with native species or exotic timber trees
have been planted In several areas of Cost Rica with similar soli condilions (9), and productive
natural forests also exist In Similarconditions.
A,9@y.91,ns
• GWM growth ••••••
m9nt
Pag. 11

12. MC!an Minimum
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Paoe 12

13. R.~O of Pl'll,lplt3tlon
•
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Poue 13

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15. Summary Statistics of iruerpolared climate variables
Variable
MC!A.II
Median
Minjluull.
Minimum Temperature
21.22
21.43
0.20
2
21.85
Maximum Temperature
31.43
30.95
3O.J5
33.45
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5
Mean Tempe nil lire
26.32
26.1.4
25.78
27.20
Variable
ld.Oev.
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C.V.
Skcwncss
Ex. kurtosis
Minlmum Temperature
0.54
0.03
-0.88
-0.40
Maximum Temperature
i.n
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0.68
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Pl'ce.lpllOLiOo
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Maxhnuill
Inlerpol3tcd CU."3tlc vorloblas
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Climatic etcr Balance (mml (Io'tl M.,o" Preclpltat!on (lnO'I (I.rtl
Mean Temperature ("IU$I (rloht)
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GWM growth 4••
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Orct.nber,
Pooe 15

16. Terrain and topography
Slope, aspect and topography are generally Important variables for tree growth, as they influence
also sun radiation, temperature, local hydrology and soli drainage, temperature variation and
generally the micro-climate of the site.
Regarding slope percent, we have examined the site based on a 30 meter contour map, and spatial
filtering revealed site areas with more than 15-20 % slope, which we consider as less suitable for
ron-ron growth, according to literature. Additionally. the best place for ron-ron growth may be the
lower slope and river bank parts with low Inclination, with greater alluvial and finer material deposits
from up-slope. as Interpreted by literature and habitat suitability Indexing.
GIS analysis was carried out for these variables using satellite Imagery as primary data input (32) In
order to derive specific high resolution properties of the site. The resolution of this analysis was at
30x30 meters (as the original data(32)), or approximately at every 10nth of a hectare. Additionally,
the wetness Index was developed, to provide a fuzzy classification on the relatively wetter and drier
areas of the location. All this Information was Incorporated Into the spatial database developed to
provide as final result visual representations of the analysis carried and to construct a site suitability
map.
Rcletfve ,patio! tll,l;rlbutloo of AJPfXt 'or each 1110Ho oreo of the GWM site
,....90dagrenl North, leOda!) Wast
270dog SOUlh 3GOd"lleo.t
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150
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A$pett (dagrQ~' lecreese countertlockwj,Q 0·360)
300
350
Poo. 16

17. Morpholof) lcnl/Morphomal.ric
o
feil!'11res of I.hf~C;WM sil.,~
Coortlonate
Reference
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.I~.
+dfltul11-WGS84 .funlt.. m tna_rteiA ""QWQl84-O.0,O
GWM bordlll'l: Qr..nwaod Man.glmlnl
Original DEMdala aou~: Earth RomOIOSonal~goala Analy" ConlOI lERSDAC),Dala eo" al'l)• plOouel 01100Mlnl8lry
01Ecano"". TlQdo.and Indullry (METI! of Jo.pan and 01tho UnttodSIaIO. ~alIOn.1 IoronautlCaand SpoeoIIdminlatrasJOn
[NASA)

18. Aspect map or the C;lVM
site Iocauou
"7000,.0
-
?470OC,Q
Aipuct MbP
"&Q~O
•
•
~
~
,.~.
0
_
..
...... .~
"
VIQllt
South
EMt
•
q
"
NOlth
~
~
~
"
e
9I1l(.OOC,O
~
"
Coordlnalo FlolG
.,n¢O Systom: wtlS8411JTMZONE 17N I PSG 32&17 I .p"l.utm -zono. I7 ...,IP8ftwGS84 .CI8lum.WGS84
'"odtl$ ,towgil84"(),OO
GWM aile border, data "OUL"C'~Gl'lerwmod MAnagement
I.Indl.'lm.~.,y:
G
loblll.lrul eo .. , Fa.lllly (GLCFj, Cloddatd Spac. FI,ght Conti' tGSFO) (201 I), I.Indlll SuMa.. Rlf1aclanOi .
,""I,o-m
L.ond8.t 1M" ET M.j.,Glebal L.ond CO'lO' FllCIllty UnlvolOoty 01 MGl'land. COIIOQQ
PIlIk •

19. Slope percent contour map of tho C;"1;1
site
~
~
~
~
~:
,
_- /,
~
--=
(K
.,
~
<
" ! ')1.
r~
1
J
'l.
~
, B"4 •• ',/Iv -, ,jO'-!' ~
~
Slope pf!irc~ntC:OI'tour Mnp
-
O%ilupfl
9""000.000
10% 5lop~
1$ % ~I(lpe
",~"
,
-
20% sIOI>.
~I~
~Iopc
" '
Coollllna'" FltfIt .. nc. $l'IIlm: WClS84IUTMZONE7N i EPSO 32817 I .p"'l.u.m .",nl.17 .eUpo-WClS84
1
+!Uitum.IVOSB4 + •• ru .-flo_d." +IOWUIl&4.Q.G.O
unlt
QWM 1110 boIllO,., GIoO_ad M.nagQmonl
O.lglnol OEM da•• GO."",: E.~h Aomo.o SOntlng 0.111Malylis Cenlor (ERSOAC).Dat. 8<1.1Il10 • pIOdUCi of the Mlnllcry
of Economy,Trade, 1M Industry (METI)01Jopen and of the United Slates National AelOnau~ceand Scaee Ad""nl., ...~on
(NASA)

20. Dralnaqe map 01 the C·VM site (surtace runoft ill degrees)
lU'J IiOQIOClII",1.I'f,CO r,ll"lo*
~
..
o
1711I EP~
)lS U'I'I1't"t' &~ f,(;~,
..
I"'Q~
_
1(1.;dllO'IM' url'Ce tlnoff
..
.01" dC9rQQI. $url~co
"Wlofi
~
000"'1.010 RoIOlilnllO S)'8iom: WOS841UIMZONE
27':: velJ!~~,tl'f.t~
I'II,,)II
~
"'1oIol.
"II 109 'tw,..',11A(.~I'ilj(JIt
!In 1' .....
.'....
11" ...,..
III',{,11
320111 +l>lOjOOjlm
...ono.17 "11D .. WOBse
+d.,um.WGS84 +Unll...,.._no do•• ,owgS84.0.0.0
GWMtile bolOe,.:I.lrae'_d
Meneo.meot
Original OEM data .oulte: E.rth Remote 8enslno 0.10 "'"''I'll. ,..nw (ERSOACi_Clot •• ,. ant a PIOdu", of mo Mlnl.l'/
•
of EocJr'lorny, rtadl. atld Indul'lry lMEn) at Jipan and oil",. United St.... National Aeronautlca and SPIOI Admlnl8lrilIOn
(NASA)

21. Future plantation growth potential
Generally, Ron-ron is considered a rather slow growing species In Costa Rica, and also In Brazil
(Gonceto-Aives), with mean annual increments In DBH of 0,6 to 1,0 em, although there are some
cases reporting higher growth. In Honduras it Is reported as growing with significantly higher rates
during early age, especially at good alluvial sites. In Argentina, It Is studied as plantation species
and at later growlh stages, In dry sites of 800 mm of precipitation annually (4).
The genetic variability and also the variation of environments that the species grows may be
responsible for certain growth variation in these reports. Additionally, since It is a native forest
species with current efforts for Its conservation and systematic propagation, Ihe inbreeding and
selective breeding of the species under controlled conditions may be limited and therefore
physiological and morphological traits affecting growth of the species present high variation,
However, as noted by various organizations and authors (ex. FAO) this genetic variability that plant,
tree and crop species present Is one main reason for lood production and security in our world, and
thus can result to benefits in forest management too.
Such genetic variability results to different responses to diseases, pests and environmental
conditions for crops and trees. Thus, although Ron-ron trees may not systematically be as
homogeneous in growth and traits as Teak trees for example (which are selectively breed and
grown for their valuable timber all over the tropics and sublropics and therefore their genotype and
phenotype Is more standardized for a given variety), due to their higher variability, but there are
other certain advantages that can make up for this Inhomogeneity.
Certain growth models reviewed for Ron-ron provide linear functions for Its growth, as a function of
volume Increment with age. Other models are originating from Brazil (5, 6), provide growth models
for Astronium balansae, which Is in the genus of Astronlum. Another study from Honduras (57)
provides growth equations for the first six years of growth for the species of Astronlum graveolens
for various growth scenarios based on site quality. Also, dendrometric Information for Astronium
spp grown at plantation conditions at a region of Argentina is included In scientific work (4).
Similarly. useful Information about Astronlum early growth Is provided from a study In Panama (3),
where 24 tree species were tested in a field trial documenting early growth. There were several
studies of soil treatments and their effect to Astronium genus species growth in Brazil (6, 36, 37,
38), which Is usually planted at latosol solis but In environments with much less preclpitation than
the site studied In Costa Rica. Generally, species prefers well drained soils, and does not tolerate
waterlogged or prefer heavy clay solis, but can grow on the later too. Astronlum spp, biomass
allometric relationships was also a subject (47) of a study in the tropics, which provides also
another data source for the growth rates of the species.
Recommendations for single species plantings propose dense Initial pattems, to avoid tree
branching and promote strong eplcormlc growth (26). The species has usually satisfactory levels of
mortality In plantations, A suitability classification was also considered for the needs of this study for
Ron-ron, based on reviews of published reports (26, 28),
The species although Is studied from various aspects we have not found any representative growth
models or yield tables for South Costa Rica. Based on the scientific work and reports reviewed for
broad-leaf species growth at Golfito area we assume a mean dbh increment of 0,5-0,8 cm annually.
Given that the goal of this study Is to model a full rotation of Ron-ron growth which spans 25·30
years or more, growth curves were fitted to the data mentioned In the previous lines in order to
avoid any degree of subjectivity of using non-spatial developed statistical models from other
geographic areas. The growth modelling approach for this Astronium graveolens study, conSidering
as guidelines similar studies (5,6,57) was focused on the adaptation of growth modet equations (2)
using specific methodology and software tools as developed by authors (60,58,15). Based on the
found sources of Information for Ron-ron forest plantations In Costa Rica after bibliographic
research, a regional growth mean estimate for Southwestern Coast was assessed. As in the tables
A, grpy,OI9!l' • GWM growth " •• ,.monl

22. provided for the most likely growth scenario for Ron-ron, a 30 year rotation period is selected with
1300 trees per hectare at year 1, with thinning events occurring every 5 years reducing by 25 % -
50'/0 the residual tree number during each operation (57), Higher Increments are also possible, but
these would depend on various site-species factors which can be with more detail analyzed after
plantation establishment.
Assumptions and caveats
One Important detail to note here Is that all sclentiflc reterences and bibliography are from peerreviewed journals and publications, and there is no doubt of their scientific accuracy, However, the
use of such models by the author of this report In a wrong or subjective manner, does not mean of
course that the used bibliography or the cited authors are Incorrect: rather its clearly the
responsibility of the current author on the appropriate use of these,
Climate data are estimated for the geographic area of Interest. Ideally. for a site assessmenl of
plantation growth, one may have local time series of meteo data for the last decades, However,
such data are not available before hand. as this is very often the case with agricultural or forestry
production. Therefore on Initial estimations 01 site suitability and plantation growth. either
researchers or managers use Interpolated data which may be less accurate and with coarse spatial
resolution to represent local variability. However. this Is a very usual case, since detailed local data
may not be available even after plantation establishment.
Uncertainty In the assumptions and estimations made Is towards high levels. which can be limited
when local ground tree and plantation growth data can be available after plantation growth.
Verification of such projections can be made with actual ground sampling of existing Ron-ron
plantations at the area aged 5-6 year old or later, and can be repeatedly updated in future periods,
GIS and IT
Mapping and GIS are a useful way to Integrate various kinds of data and derive results based on
their combination. Apart from the usefulness of such tools to Integrate Information and extract
results, the visual outputs, such as maps and graphs, can be useful even to non technical readers
to see the tocation of lhe site and Its characteristics.
Whal can be the benefits of such maps and dats available? First of all, one may see the data
sources and methodology used and therefore to be able to evaluate Ihis study, Also, a reader may
actually view the study location from the coordinates that are available In lhe various maps
provided. The Coordinate System used Is the WGS 84, UTM Zone 17N, which can be converted to
any other system desired, Complete referencos are provided for the data-sets used, for the
operating systems and software packages used. Both commercial and open source software tools
were utilized In order to develop Ihls GWM study.
Future document updates
Such documents of working nature can be updated with the availability of ground data from
plantation growth, Usually. a good conclusion of plantation potential can be made after the first
years of plantation growth. from field foresters and plantation managers,
A, g,.y.ol'!l'
. GWM growth p.,olsmont
Pao.
:u

23. Projecdol1s table· SMote ap*IS
A(JI!
(V .... )
TotaJ Volume (theoreticAl no thinning
O'ClW'h)
plMtAtlon 01 A.tronlum (p'lIiM)lanl
R•• ich-al Undtrbar1C Volume to lOP
dinn,el(!f O. 10 em
J
2.3J
4
4.23
5
13,00
6
0.0<
7
11.92
8
1.4.71
9
17.&1
10
21.01
11
24,21
U
27.39
10 lI6
13
31),$3
12.1'>4
14
33.58
14.89
15
30,S'
17.32
16
30,3'
lH)
17
41.97
10.32
18
44,41
21..9
19
46.83
23.72
20
4g.()4
?G.OO
21
51.12
24.20
22
53.08
2G.l8
2l
54.113
28.19
2.
56.67
302$
2G
$8.33
32.35
26
59,90
20.99
27
61.41
2(14.4
2G
62,8$
2089
29
1).1,2'
31.35
30
GSS8
32.81
underbft,k
.92
0
3
to top dkumtero, 10 em
0.00
2
Va"""" "moved (lhinnlnglHftrvt,dng)
To~1A,e~tH'AIMI Vol~lme
At g,.,V.o10Il, . GWM growth ",o."non,
2.71
,07 B
3.134
6,02
7.72
32.43
49,84
Page 23

24. PlOjocliOll' tQble.
Ag. (y••
'.)
ThoorcOcnI QrOMh of bosal arctt
Singto spoc::loSptantotlon of ASlrotium gravOOle,.
RsldUtkI BaSAl Area (Rhor Ihlnting)
e
1
0,00
2
0,68
0.68
3
1,37
1.37
4
2,05
2.05
5
2,72
2.72
6
3,39
2.76
7
4,04
3.34
8
4,67
3.89
9
5,29
".4S
I.
5,87
5.00
11
6,41
3.75
12
6,92
4.11
13
7,38
4.47
14
7,80
4,83
15
8.17
5.18
16
8,50
4.61
17
8,79
4.90
18
9,03
5.29
19
U4
M9
2.
9,42
5.79
21
9,57
5.00
22
9,70
5.34
23
9,81
5.59
24
0,00
5.83
25
9,97
6.07
26
10.03
5.33
27
10,00
5.50
28
10.13
5.87
29
10.17
5,83
30
10,29
5.89
Romovod and Harvel'led Bls41 Aroa
At q(Jy.oI9n •.
GWM growth 9., ••• ,u.ol
0,G8
2.50
1.30
1.4S
1.52
S99
Pago 24

25. protecllons
AIJO (yo... ,
ToUll Volul»e (theor.llcal
orOMh)
cfthto . Single specie" ptelt(al60n Of A$tmnlurn gravoolcns
no I.!linnlng
To Vo"",,,... MAl (thtor.tlc.tno
tal
thlnnlno Orowth)
Tow Vo"'mt PN {Ihooretkal no
thlnnlno growth)
0,00
0.00
2
0.62
0~1
0,82
3
2,31
o,n
1,49
•
'.23
1.00
5
6,00
1.30
227
G
9,04
1.GI
2.6!I
7
U.02
11)9
2.77
8
JA.n
1,85
9
17.85
10
21.01
2.10
9.16
U
1.4.21
2.20
320
12
27.39
2,26
319
13
30.53
2.3&
313
"
15
33.56
2.40
3.0$
10
3Ul
2,46
2.80
17
41.1l7
2,d7
2.00
18
44,• .,
2,47
2Jil
19
46.0:1
2.40
2.3G
20
40.0<
2.45
W
21
5,1.12
2.'3
2.08
22
53.0Il
2.41
1.00
23
!l4.9:1
2.39
IllS
24
56.67
2.:16
1.75
25
58.33
2.33
1.58
20
50.00
2.30
1.58
27
6..41
227
1.51
28
62.8G
2.2.
1M
29
04.2'
2.22
30
GB,!iQ
2.19
36.61
A. grAV'o!,!), ~GWM growth 9" •• "n.",
.116
1
43 2.
.92 1
.~ 2
3.08
.93 2
1.39
1.34
PaD. 25

26. Theoretical B••• I Are.
elf
no thinning I, applloa)· 81$0
",slaual and removed baslll are•
I(tmovcd ond HaI'VCsted BBlel Areta
Theoretical BesalAre. e It no Ihlnnlng Is applied)
Residual 8MAI Are~(ofler thinnino~
12
•
-;r
10
..
IQ
b
e
8
)I(
~
'"
~
6
...
I!!
'"
.,
~
II(
•
lI<
•
to
0
•
A. qtAV'o!.".
*
*
,,
c;
"
10
O"9"'U.II'
"*
'"
'"
•
•
5
*
, lK ,..
• If
..
'" •
A A
,~
(
A
I.>
•
~GWM growth
)I(
•
1Il
2
...
«
..: IoE
~
>E
1« II'
lIE f,
15
Ago ey
20
•
25
30
•• ,,
P'o' 26

27. OMP ""'. A'''.I ,,~
OIl~II'"1
I
I
..:/.,1'.i ,1I.1..,'u.·.· ,·,',""II"I,mu ....,.",.,
,..,
t;l'<fllrt•• :'I'("''''I~' ~'tf~,r.I: ~d~,' %/JNC :Il!.,. )~~1'I +"IIOI"~'rl
'1.'1.
.'tV
.'H:
+jo:r,,·::
"i!'''m.-''·Q~6'.. 1 111·''''NI:i',.,~ n "0&',, ""I)..d,,-.,"IU"~,1!1j'l-3."·)
..
..,
A. qtAY'OI.!)•• GWMgrowth 9'.9 ••
,n.II'
P'o. 27

28. Bibliography and References
Please note that numerous scientific reports, manuscripts and documents exist discussing Issues
relevant to this report. The list below does not Intend of course to be a full bibliography of such
matters. The catalog provided below Is to give credit and express acknowledgment to the authors of
work useful for the development of this technical report.
I. Blaney, H.F. and Criddle, W.O. t962. Determining
consumptive USc and irrigation wnter
requirements, U. S. DOIlI.Agr, Agricultural Research, Service Tech Bull 1275. 59p.
2. Vanclay.J. K. (20 I 0). Robust relationships 101'simple plantution growth models based on sparse
data. Forest Ecology and Management, 259(5), 1050-1054. doi: 10.10 16/j.f'orcco.2009.12.026
3. Wishnic, M. H .. Dent, D. H., Mariscal, E.. Deugo,.I .. Cedeno. N., lbarra, 0 .. Condit, R.• cr al,
(2007). Initial performance and reforestation potential 01'24 tropical tree species planted HcrOSSa
precipitation gradient in the Republic of Panama. Forest Ecology and Management, 243, 39-49.
4. Victor R. PEREZ, Pedro DELVALLE. Ricardo C. OVIEDO, Maria C. CANI3TE Y OUSIaVOR.
RHINER Carlos A. GOMEZ. Informacion dasometrica de una purcela experimental de Asrroniurn
balansnc engl. En I" provincia del chaco, Estacien Experimental Agropccuaria S,ien?. Pcnu
5. Cesar AuguSIO Guimarilcs ringer. Jackson Roberto Elcoierio Rule Berger. Paulo Rcnato
Schneider, CRESCIM [iNTO DIAMETRICO DO I'Au-rnRRO (Astronium balansac) EM
Rfll'LORESTAMENTO
NO MUNlclr'IO DE SAO SI3PE. RS, CieMcia FlorC8101,v.6. n.1. p.IOI108, ISSN 0 I03-99S4
6. C(:8,1I'Augusto Guimarilcs Finger, Paulo Renate Schneider, Rute Berger, Jackson Roberto
Eleotcrio. INVESTIOA<;:AO RETROSI'E(.VrtVA DO CRESCIMENTO VOLUMETRICO Dc "AUFERRO (Astronium balansuc). Ciencia Florcstal, Santa Maria. v. 13. 11. I, p. 131-136, ISSN 0 1039954
7. Arias, D., Calvo-alvarado, J .• Richter; D .• Dohrcnbusch, A .• COSH1.D.. lrcr, R.. Cartage, A., Cl at.
(2011). Productivity , aboveground biomass. nutrient uptake and carbon conrcnt in fast-grcwing tree
plantations ofnative lind introduced species in the Southern Region OfCOSLORica. Biomass unci
Bioencrgy, 35(5), 1779-1788. r.tscvier Lid. doi: 10.1 0 I 6/j,biombioe.2() I 1.0 1.009
8. Boley. J. D.. Drew, A. I'.• Andrus, R.. E., & Rica. C. (2009). ElYecls or uctive pasture . teak (
Tcctonu grundis ) and mixed native plunnuions on soil chemistry in Costa Rica. Forest Ecology and
Mnnugcment, 257. 2254-22(11, dol: I 0.1 (l16/j.lorcco.2009.02.035
9. Calvo-alvarado, J. C.. Arias. D., & Richter, D. D. (2007). Early growth performance of native and
introduccd fast growi ng treespecies in wet to sub-humid cl imares of the SOUlhcl'II region of Costa
Rica. Forest Ecology and Management. 242, 227-235.
10. Carlos. J., Usuga, L., Andres . .I., 'foro, R.. Vanessa, M., Alzarc, R., JCSiIS, A. D .. ct "I. (2010).
Estimation of biomass and carbon stocks ill plants . soil and 10rcSI floor in different tropical forests.
Forest Ecology and Management. 260( 10), 1906-1 C)13. Elsevier B. V.
doi: I 0.1 OI6~i.lOrcco.201 O.O~.040
II. Carpenter, F. L.. Nichols. J. D .. & Sandi, E. (2004). a. Early growth of native and exotic trees
planted on degraded tropical pasture, Forest Ecol. Mannge .. 196,367-378.
12. Craven. D. Dent, D .. Braden. D .. Ashton, M. S .. Bcrlyn, 0, fl., & Hall . .I. S. (2011). Seasonal
variability of'phorosynrheuc characteristics influences growth of eight tropical tree species III IWO
sires with contrasting precipitation in Panama. Forest Ecology and Management, 261 (10), 1643A, qr,y,ol.n.
~GWM grOWl"
9'.9."n.",
P'o' 28

29. 1653. Elsevier B. V. doi: 10.10 16/j.forcco.20 10.09.017
13. Cusack, D., & Montagnini. F. (2004), The role ofnutivc species ptanrations in recovery
understory woody divcrslty in degraded pasturclands or COsta Rica. Forest RcolClgy nnd
Management, 188, 1·15.
Or
14. I.T.C.R. (Instituto Tccnologico de Costa Rica). (2007). Catalogacien en 111 uente. Kuru: Rcvista
F
Forestal, 4(4( II Y 12 especial). 2007).
15. Jerome K Vanclay and PetcrJ Sands. (2009), Calibrating the self-thinning frontier. Forest
Geology and Management, 259( I), R 1·~5.
16.l,.,cite, E. J. (2001). Spatial distribution patterns ofriverine
ForeSI Ecology lind Management. 140.
forest taxa in Alill. Brazil 8r(lsO.
17. Leite, G. J. (2002). Srate-of-knowlcdgc on Astronium fruxinifolium Schou (Anacardiaccae ) for
generic conservation in Brazil. Perspectives in Plant J2coloSY Evolution and Systematics. 5. 63-77.
I H. Luis. D.. Vieira. M .. & Scarier, A. (2006). Elrcels of logging . liana tangles and pasture on seed
fate of dry forest tree species in Central Brazil. Forest Ecology lind Manugcrncnt. 230.197-205.
dol: 10.10 16/j.lorcco.2006.05.002
19. Medina. G.. Pokorny, B., & Campbell, 13.M. (2009). Community forest management 101'timber
extmcrion ill the A mazon front ier, Internutiona I Forest ry Review, II (3), 408-420.
20. Montagnini. 8. B. F., F.. U.. L.. N.. & C. (2003). Growth characrcristics of some native I1'CC
species used in silvopasrorul systems in the humid lowlands of Costa Rica. 1I;roI'01'.SySI., 59. 163·
170.
21. Montagnini, P. (2000). b. Accumulation in above-ground biomass and soil storage of mineral
nutrients in pure and mixed plantations in a humid tropical lowland. Forest Ecol. Manage., 134( 1-3).
257-270.
22. Montagnini, Florcncla. Kannincn, M.• Piotto. D.. & II. B. (2004). Pure and mixed 1'0l'eSI
ptunrarlons with native species oCthe dry tropics of Costa Rica: a compurison of growth and
productivity, Forest Ecology lind Management, 190. 359-372. doi: 10.10 16/j. fOl'oco.2003.11.005
23. Petit, B., & Monragnini, F. (2004). Growth equations and rotation uges often native tree species
in mixed and pure plantations in the humid ncotropics. Forest Ecol, Manage .. 199.243·257.
doi: 10. I OI6/j.I'oreco.2004.05.039
24. Petit. B.. & Monmgnini, F. (2006). Growth in purl! and mixed plantlltions or tree species used in
reforesting 1'1111.1 ofthe humid region or COSh!Rica. Ccnl1'01America. Forest Ecol. Manage ..
areas
233.338-343. doi: 10.10 16/j,rorcco.2006.05.030
25. Piotto, D, Monragnini. F.• Ugalde, L., & Kannincn, M. (2003). u. Growth and effects of thinning
or mixed and pure plantations with native trees in humid tropical Costa Rica, Forest Ecol. Manage ..
177.427-439.
26. Arboles de Ccrnroarncrica (ABC). Centro Agronomico de lnvestigncion
Costa Rica
y Escenanza. Cartage,
27. Astronium graveolcns Jacq. (Jovillo, ron rcn ) lnsiruto Nacional Purn Biodiversidad, Especies
Disponibles. b)' Q
uirico Jimenez (Link: http://dul1Iis.inbio.ac.cr/FMf'ro·!-DB-UBljJub.l'p3&luy=WebAII&-l'ormul=/ubi/det!l il.html&·Op"bw&id=21 35&- Find)
A, qtAyIO!'"'
. GWM grow'h
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P,o. 31

32. 497-507
57. Guias silviculturalcs de 23 espccics forestatcs del bosque humedo de Honduras . Proyccio PD
022/99 Rcv.2 (1') Estudio de Comportamicnto de Espccies Madcrablcs Nativas con lrnponancia
Comercial del Bosque Humcdo Tropical en Honduras (PROECEN) Escuela Nncional de Cicncius
rorcsutes (ESNACIFOR) Organizacion lntcrnacional de las Maderas Tropicalcs (OIMT)
58. NonlinXL: a 1001fOI' lilling non-linear Excel-bused models 10 observed data. Version 1.0.
September 2010. I'CICI' ands. 39 Oaklcigh Av. Taroona , Auslraliu 7053. cmail:
S
p.jsNumcri cs@nclspace.ncl.au
51).Soils 1 Natuml Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). United States Department or
Agriculture (USDA) hllll:llsoils,usdll.govl
60. Dr. f'Clcr Sands , 39 Oak leigh Av. Taroona .Australia 7053 • email:
pjsN umcrics@nclspocc.nel.au
Acknowledgments
ACknowledgments are owned to seientiric work of certain authors. work which was valuable for the
completion of this study. More specifically:
Dr. Peter Sands. 39 Oukleigh Av. T<1rIlOnU
.Australi» 7053. email: pjsNu111crics@nclspacc.nc!.ulI
for the total of his work as mentioned in the "Bibliography and References" lind also in "Software
Resources" paragraphs Ill'this report.
A specific acknowledgment
is owned to authors (or their scientific work below:
Vanclay. .I. K. (20 I0). Robust relationships for simple plantation growth models based on
sparse dahl. Forest Ecology and Managcmcm. 259(5), 1050-1054. doi: I0.1 ()16~j.tbrceo.2009,12.()26
Guias silviculturalcs de 23 especies torestalcs del bosque hU111Cdo l londurns . Proyecto
de
PO 022/99 Rcv.2 (F) Estudio de Comportamiento de Especics Maderahlcs Nativas con lmportancia
Cornercial del Bosque I I<tmedo Tropical en l londuras (PROECEN) Escuela Nncional de Ciencias
Forestules (ESNACIFOR) Organizacion lnternacional de las Maderas Tropicales (OIMT)
Cesar Augusto Guimaracs Finger. Jackson RobcI10 Elcolcrio Rule Berger, Paulo Rcnato
Schneider. CRESCIMENTO DIAMETRICO DO I'AU·FERRO (Astronium balnnsae) EM
REFLORt:iSTAMENTO NO MUNIciPIO
108. ISSN ()I03-9954
DE SAO SE RS. Cii!ncia FloreSlul. v.6. n.l. p.IOI.
PE.
Cesar Augusto Guimariles Finger, Paulo Renate Schneider, Rute Berger, Jackson Roberto
Bleoterio. INVESTIGAc;:AO IU.lTROS('ECTlVA 1)0 CRESCIMIiNTO VOLUMETRICO DE PAU·
FERRO (Astronium balunsae), Cii!ncin Florcstal, Santa Maria, v. 13, n. I, p. 131-136. ISSN )1039954
Finally, gratitude is expressed to certain organizations for Ihelr publication ot data sets, scientific
research and bibliographic resources:
AegrAyeo!,",
. GWM gCOWlh 9."'.'D.OI
Pog. 32

33. CATIE. Centro Agronornico de Invesrigacion
y csc,~n"nZH,Cartage. Costa Ricu
GCL).'. Globnl Land Cover Facility, University of'Marylund. Maryland, U.S.A.
European Soil Portal, Land Management & Natural Hazards Unit, Institute lor E
nvironment
and Sustainubility, Joint RCSCHrch Centre. European Commission
1'10. Food and Agriculture Orgnnizntion
Caracalla
00153 Rome, ltuly www.fao.org
Library 01; National Documcmation
of the United Nations, Viole delle Tcrmc di
Centre, 48 Vassilcos Constantinou
Av. GR-11635.
Athens
Software resources
Several software resources/packaqes were used for the realization of this assessment:
Microsoft Windows XP Professional
Microsoft Excel
Openofflce.org 3.2.0
Deblan GNU/LInux . codenamed "squeeze". amd64
Deblan GNU/LInux , codenamed "squeeze", 1386
Grass GIS 6.4.0RC6 (2010)· GRASS Development Team, 2010, Geographic Resources
Analysis Support System (GRASS) Software, Version 6,4.0, Open Source Geospatlal
Foundation, http://grass.osgeo,org
Ouantum GIS (OGIS) version 1.4,0 Enceladus
Scribus, Open Source Desktop Publishing
Grett, Gnu Regression and Econometrics Library
NonllnXL : a tool for fitting non-linear Excel·based models to observed data, Version 1.0,
September 2010 , Peter Sands, 39 Oaklelgh Av, Taroona ,Australia 7053 , email:
pjsNumerics@netspace,net.au
About this document
This technical report for potential plantation growth estimation for this particular GWM site In Golfito.
Puntarenas, Costa Rica was developed by Dimos p, Anastaslou <dpa@bi04met.com>, Papaflessa
, 5, Lamia, Greece based on agreement with Greenwood Management. Author welcomes any
comments, questions or suggestions at rrom anyone Interested,
The document is a description or tha total of work carried out for this assessment and includes
spatial and non-spatial databases, software, spreadsheets, vector and raster data, bibliographic
material. scientific manuscripts and reports. It was developed using PC workstations running on
Deblan GNU Llnux and Windows XP operating systems, with spreadsheet and other specialized
software, More details of the resources used are provided In the references and bibliography
sections of this document.
A, qray.o',n,
. GWM groWlh 9"9 ••
,D.'"
P'o. 33