Comparing leaf area index at different distances from constructed forest roads edge in Hyrcanian forest (Case study: a hornbeam-beech forest in Kheyrud, Mazandaran)

The aim of this study was to investigate LAI in main forest roads edge and comparing it at different distances in hornbeam-beech type. Study site was chosen in Namkhane district of Kheyrud Forest, in addition, LAI values were estimated along with16 transects having 100 meters length from the both edges of roadside into the forest (at each transect 9 points at the distances of zero (roadside), 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 45, 60, and 100 meters from the main road) by using hemispherical photography method. The results of ANOVA analysis showed the effect of distance from road were significant on LAI value (p