Decay Hazard (Scheffer) Index Values in Korea for Exterior Aboveground Wood

Abstract

This research was performed to evaluate the decay hazard for exterior aboveground wood in Korea. The decay hazard (Scheffer) index values were calculated for 56 locations in Korea using the 1972 to 2011 climate normal data available from the Korea Meteorological Administration, and the wood decay hazard maps were created on the basis of the determined values. Jeju Province, Korea's largest island lying in the Korea Strait, southwest of South Jeolla Province, has decay hazard ratings above 70, considered a severe decay hazard zone according to the generally accepted classifications. The index values of the other areas are in the range between 35 and 70, meaning that Korea could be considered a moderate decay zone. However, the annual Scheffer index values calculated from recent climate data tend to be higher than the average index values. The comparison of annual Scheffer index values showed that many moderate decay areas in Korea could be severe decay hazard areas due to directional or cyclical climate change. This suggests that proper wood protection is greatly needed and more critical in the future.