70Regional functions

70 Regional functions

(1) A project proponent must undertake the processes specified in this section when developing and updating a regional function.

(2) The project proponent may develop a regional function from trees that are inside or outside the project area.

Allometric domain

(3) Subject to subsection (4), the allometric domain that relates to the regional function must be defined in accordance with section 61.

(4) If a stratum specific function is reclassified as a regional function, the process specified in section 71 must be undertaken.

(5) Biomass sample sites that are within the geographic limits of the allometric domain for the assessment of biomass sample trees for the tree type that will be referenced by the regional function must be mapped using a geographic information system.

(6) A minimum of 10 locations must be selected from within the biomass sample sites mapped in accordance with subsection (5) for the establishment of biomass sample plots by applying the process of sections 32 and 33 to each biomass sample site and selecting, as biomass sample plots, a suitable number of potential plot locations.

(7) The intended location coordinates of each plot must be uploaded into a global positioning system.

(8) Biomass sample plots must be established in accordance with Subdivision 6 in each biomass sample site.

(9) The combination of target plot size and the number of biomass sample plots must ensure that at least 100 trees of the tree type to be referenced by the regional function are included within the biomass sample plots.

(10) All occurrences of a tree type to be referenced by a regional function in a biomass sample plot (function trees) must be identified and candidate predictor measures must be collected from each tree.

(11) At least 20 biomass sample trees must be selected in accordance with the process described at subsections 68(4) to (8).

(12) Subject to subsection (13), all biomass sample trees selected in accordance with subsection (11) must be assessed using the process specified in Subdivision 14.

(13) 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 68(8) and must document this reselection and the rationale for the reselection within a sampling plan in accordance with Subdivision 3.

(14) A regression function must be fit and ex post analyses performed in accordance with Subdivision 12.

(15) A regional function may be updated in accordance with section 69, with necessary modifications.