16 Canopy Closure

Canopy closure is reported as the estimated percentage coverage of tree layer > 5 m in 5% steps.

The maximum value is 100% as multiple coverage is not considered separately.

In single layered stands the sum of the coverage of all tree layers = canopy closure.

As layers may overlap, the sum of the coverage of the layers may be higher than the canopy closure (see EI 15).

Canopy closure estimate refers to the plot area.

Canopy closure is estimated as a projection of branches and foliage to the plot surface.