68Developing stratum specific functions

68 Developing stratum specific functions

(1) This section sets out the process for developing a stratum specific function for a particular tree type.

(2) TSPs must have been established for a full inventory of the stratum, in accordance with section 23.

(3) Values of candidate predictor measures must have been collected from all live project trees of the tree type within the TSPs (the function trees).

(4) The function trees must be ranked according to size based on the candidate predictor measures.

(5) The smallest and largest of the function trees must be selected for assessment as biomass sample trees.

(6) The remaining function trees must be divided into at least 5 size classes.

(7) At least 18 further function trees must be selected for assessment as biomass sample trees by randomly drawing an equal number from each size class.

(8) The following steps must be followed to achieve random selection from within each size class:

(a) the function trees in the size class must be:

(i) ranked from smallest to largest; and
(ii) numbered from 1 to i, where i is the number of function trees in the size class;

(b) a pseudo-random number generator must be used to generate a random integer from 1 to i;

(c) the project tree which corresponds to that integer must be selected as a biomass sample tree;

(d) the steps in paragraphs (b) and (c) must be repeated until the necessary number of biomass sample trees have been selected for the size class.

(9) Subject to subsection (11), all biomass sample trees selected in accordance with subsections (4) to (8) must be assessed in accordance with Subdivision 14.

(10) A regression function must be fitted and ex post analyses performed in accordance with the requirements specified in Subdivision 12.

(11) Where assessment of one or more biomass sample trees would constitute a serious risk to safety, cultural heritage, environmental values or property, the project proponent must select other biomass sample trees by applying the random selection process described at subsection (8) and must document this reselection and the rationale for the reselection within a sampling plan in accordance with Subdivision 3.