Evaluating five forest models using multi-decadal inventory data from mountain forests

摘要: Abstract Forest ecosystem models, being widespread science tools and used for forest management decision support are usually evaluated individually against field data sets, while model intercomparison joint evaluation studies rare. We tested five models according to a harmonized protocol from nine compartments in the Snĕžnik region, Slovenia. The suite of included stand- landscape-scale, empirical- process-based across Europe. test dataset originated inventory covering 50 years (tree measurements 1963, 1983 2013) annual harvesting records at tree level. Uncertainties conditions were considered by defining 12 scenarios varying initial regeneration, browsing pressure harvest modalities. models` ability initialize accurately, whether interventions could be implemented based on records, how well basal area diameter structure predicted. Simulation results development showed good satisfactory performance all which SAMSARA2, SIBYLA PICUS best agreement. Comparison simulated observed distributions ForClim, PICUS, SAMSARA2 SIBYLA. Model output variability was between 6% 24%, indicating relevance consider uncertainties that can attributed specific sources. There no clear hierarchy more empirical or regarding accuracy stand projections. cohort-based landscape LandClim lowest stand-level scenario sensitivity, but nevertheless qualified it complementary application scale. Within individual-based spatially explicit seemed suitable heterogeneous mixed mountain forests. findings demonstrated usefulness datasets testing intercomparison.