Obtaining accurate estimates of standing timber volume, species composition and future growth in irregular, mixed-species woodlands is challenging, and relatively unsupported by established protocols in the UK. This field study by Winton estate in collaboration with Crossbill Forestry aims to start filling this gap, by evaluating two forest inventory methods which have great potential to support continuous cover forestry (CCF) management in Scotland. The study will establish a circa 1 hectare research stand within the estate woodlands and create a high-quality reference dataset through a complete census: recording DBH and height of every tree, along with numerous upper stem diameters to select and validate an appropriate stem taper model. This reference dataset will be used to evaluate two inventory techniques that are widely recognized internationally but have seen little or no application in UK forestry: Critical Height Sampling (CHS) and Big Basal Area Factor Sampling (BBS).

The performance of these two methods will be compared with an abbreviated tariff approach in terms of efficiency, and accuracy (based on the full height-diameter sample). The primary aim is to provide woodland managers with practical, evidence-based approaches for monitoring growing stock more efficiently. Better inventory information will provide a stronger basis for future assessments of growth and promote sustainable harvesting.

The objectives include:

1. Develop and evaluate improved forest inventory approaches for continuous cover forestry
2. Establish a benchmark dataset from a structurally diverse Scottish woodland through detailed forest mensuration, which can be used for subsequent research into growth and yield modelling in a CCF context
3. Promote knowledge exchange between researchers and practitioners by sharing findings with forestry professionals.

Findings will be shared through a technical report, including recommendations for further research, to encourage wider adoption of effective inventory methods. The project will also establish a benchmark dataset that can support future work on growth, yield and long-term monitoring of continuous cover forestry systems.Opportunities for field demonstration events will be explored through established networks.