Timber
Cruising

hardwood grading
timber cruising
log scaling
training in timber grading and timber cruising
lumber grading
GPS Services
pre-purchase recons
carbon offsets
Ken Lucas bio, forestry technician
professional references - Ken Lucas
e-mail Ken Lucas
timber stand information


Timber Stand Information, Ken Lucas

Timber Cruising

Timber cruises are samples of a timber stand, done in a methodical manner, from which the net volume and value of the timber stand can be accurately calculated. The more field sampling done, the more accurate the cruise results. I discuss the needs of the client to determine how much sampling is required to achieve the level of accuracy the client desires. I can cruise individual trees by grade and export sort for each individual log segment, which allows the timber owner to maximize his wood resource value by selling his logs to specialized markets. I am also set-up to collect and calculate the growth information required for California NTMPs or the CFIP program.

I can provide a range of cruising intensities, from simple ocular estimates to 100% inventories of all timber resources. I utilize some statistically backed alternative methods that allow me to achieve a significant savings over conventional cruising methods:

P-3-P technical procedure paper
P-3-P check cruise procedure paper
Area Free Test paper

I can offer specialized cruise designs for check cruising, timber trespass, or remote jungle area inventory projects. I strive to incorporate old cruise data provided by clients, whenever possible, to reduce new cruise efforts.

I'm set-up with a full range of equipment and software to provide clients with the maximum efficiency of electronic data handling. I also offer clients supporting services including:
1) a traverse capability that allows me to quickly & accurately determine the acreage of an area.
2) a data processing capability for clients wanting their cruise field data compiled by the SuperAce cruise compiler.

To better service large cruise efforts, I'm prepared to function in the following roles:
1) As the project designer and supervisor to insure timely project completion and data integrity.
2) As a subcontract timber cruiser for other contractors.
3) I can call on the help of my affiliates in the Forest Inventory Group.

I strive to furnish accurate inventory data to the client in a timely manner.

My charge for timber cruising is $70 per hour, plus reasonable travel expenses.