Forest Inventory & Analysis

Forest Inventory & Analysis

The Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) Program is a partnership between Oklahoma Forestry Services and the U.S. Forest Service. This project reports on the overall extent and condition of Oklahoma’s forests using a continuous forest inventory process. Forest inventories have been conducted in eastern Oklahoma approximately every 7 to 10 years since 1936.

Inventory data is collected on a grid of permanent plots established about three miles apart. Crews use exacting procedures to take measurements on each plot that include species, size and condition of trees, evidence of harvesting, insects and diseases, fire or other forest impacts. The data is compiled and analyzed by the U.S. Forest Service. 

This process determines the status and trends of Oklahoma’s (and the nation’s) forested areas including forest land ownership patterns, forest location and extent, species composition, the size and health of trees; as well as removals by harvest, and losses to forest pests and other causes. This information is invaluable for planning and rural economic development purposes. It also enables us to evaluate whether current forest management practices are sustainable in the long run and to assess whether state policies will allow the next generation to enjoy Oklahoma’s forests as we do today.

Oklahoma’s FIA program expanded statewide in 2008, and now involves measuring 20% of the plot grid annually. Information about FIA and specific data for Oklahoma and other states is available at the Forest Service’s FIA website.

Download Oklahoma’s Forests 2014 

Check out this video for a short overview of the FIA program.

Click here to download the 2016 Inventory Fact Sheet

Contact our FIA coordinator for more specific information.