Carbon stock assessment in taiga forests of Northwest Russia using the Leningrad Region as an example

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to assess potential carbon stocks of taiga forests using a single region in Northwest Russia as an example. Using experimental data, we determined carbon stocks on the territory of the Leningrad Region. Using 53 model trees of different ages we determined the phytomass structure. The bulk of the phytomass (about 72%) is deposited in tree trunks. The green part of the crown contains about 8% of the phytomass. Branches account for 20%. The final results were obtained by forest type, taking into account the structure of forests by dominant species. The conversion of absolutely dry phytomass to carbon was carried out using a coefficient of 0.50 for woody plants and 0.45 for herbaceous plants. As of 01.01.2018, the share of conifers in the forest fund of the Leningrad Region was 58.8%. Potential carbon stocks amount to more than 408 million tons. Forest stands account for about 98% of the total carbon stocks. On average, one hectare of pine forest contains 41.76 tons of carbon, while in spruce forests this value is much higher and amounts to 112.60 tons.