Comparación de variables dasométricas obtenidas en el método tradicional y drones en plantaciones de Pinus radiata D. Don en la parroquia Palmira, provincia de Chimborazo

Abstract

This research aimed to compare the dasometric variables obtained through traditional methods and the use of drones in Pinus radiata D. Don plantations in Palmira town, province of Chimborazo. The methodology used was quantitative-comparative. It included collecting dasometric data in the field using traditional techniques and drones. It carried out a photogrammetric survey with Mavic 3 Multispectral drones, complemented with manual measurements in 15 plots of 500 m² each, systematically distributed over 35 hectares. The results showed significant differences in variables such as diameter at chest height, with averages of 12.93 cm for the traditional method and 12.65 cm for the use of drones; crown height, with averages of 5.97 m and 5.15 m respectively; the total height, with averages of 7.96 m and 6.15 m; the basal area, with averages of 0.015 m² and 0.014 m²; the volume of wood per tree, with averages of 0.064 m³ and 0.044 m³; and the total volume, with averages of 0.069 m³ and 0.051 m³. Although the traditional method proved to be very expensive, the use of drones provided more accurate results. It was cheaper, underscoring the importance of considering data accuracy and quality in choosing the forest inventory method. In this context, it was concluded that, despite the measurement discrepancies, drones offer a viable and efficient alternative for forest inventories, demonstrating benefits in terms of time and operational costs for the sustainable management of forest resources.