Le système de renseignements C.F.C.

Abstract

Forest surveys based on permanent plots possess peculiarities unusual in other computer applications. The enormous amount of information (30,000 plots, 1,000,000 trees), must be checked, corrected. Relevant information must be selected from the data bank for statistical computations. Because information for decision-making changes, the computer programs must be flexible.This article explains how this was done. In a temporary phase, all card data were "converted" to standard codes and format and written on magnetic tapes. In the file maintenance phase, the data bank is checked and corrected. Volumes are computed, plots checked by accumulating tree data, etc. The file creation phase builds a unit record from plot and tree information. Stratification data can also be merged on the new file. The reporting phase consists of modified versions of programs of the Northeastern Forest Experiment Station in the U.S. (Wilson and Peters, 1967). TABLE computes statistics by strata and condenses them in matrices, OUTPUT prints them in desired form.This computer system is a harmonious combination of special and general purpose programs. CIP experiences in developing these programs may help other foresters hence more exchange of information about data processing is desired.