Stand structure and tree population dynamic attribute dataset of long abandoned strict forest reserves

We provide an integrated dataset of two consecutive forest inventories, both containing plot-level, and individual tree-level data. The first provides the descriptions and measuring units (or categories) of plot-level variables (Table 1). The plot level table contains 233 records (rows), one for each selected permanent plot of six strict forest reserves located in Hungary. This dataset is georeferenced and contains information on inventories and basic stand structure attributes (Table_1_Plots ESRI shape format). 

The individual tree-level datasets were acquired by the sampling procedure, detailed in section 2.2. Species, dendrometric attributes, relative crown position, health, and decay status were documented for each tree belonging to the samples. Table 2 provides the descriptions and measuring units (or categories) of tree-level datasets in detail. Furthermore, it provides a tree history classification based on the interpretation of tree status changes. According to a simple scheme of the life and dead history of a tree, it could be classified into four main phases: establishment/regeneration phase; developmental phase; death and gradual decay of the tree trunk; terminated in decomposed/disintegrated state. The main events along these phases are ingrowth regeneration; death of the tree (mortality); disaggregation and decomposition of deadwood. We classify each sampled tree individuals into tree history categories (events and phases, Table 3) that can provide population dynamic aspects at stand level by appropriate tree aggregation functions.

Relational link can be set between the plot-level and tree-level datasets based on the unique identification code of the site and sampling plots.