Basal Area
Benchmark Value
Scoring Curve
This curve shows how a field measurement for this indicator would score across all available benchmark forms in this context. The scoring engine uses 5 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 4 guard(s) constrain the result.
Contributing Benchmarks
Evidence & Context
Basal area below approx. 2−3 m²/ha of functional native savanna trees is considered critically low.
Tree basal area measured as the cross-sectional area of tree stems at breast height per unit of land area.
Lower critical threshold of tree basal area below which ecosystem function is impaired in grazed tropical monsoonal savannas.
Inferred from land condition descriptions and ecological impacts associated with low basal area in grazed savannas.
Sources (1)
Scenario analysis of alternative vegetation management options on the greenhouse gas budget of two grazing businesses in north-eastern Australia (citing Bray, S.G., Golden, M., and Scanlan, J.C. (2006) Carbon stocks and sequestration potential in woodlands. Final Report for the Australian Greenhouse Office, Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Brisbane)
View SourceSupporting Sources (1)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
Investigating Intensive Grazing Systems in Northern Australia
View Source