Multivariate inference for forest inventories using auxiliary airborne laser scanning data

The first primary result was that the optimized k-NN technique in combination with a model-assisted estimator produced compatible multivariate estimates of population means for six inventory parameters. Second, variances for the multivariate model-assisted estimators were smaller by 23%-35% than variances for a post-stratified estimator. These results warrant serious consideration of this approach for operational implementation by national forest inventories.