Where can I find the climate index map of relative decay hazard?
The climate index map of relative decay hazard can be found in the Wood Handbook, Chapter 13, Biodeterioration of Wood. The map estimates the decay hazard of wood exposed to weather above ground. The FPL climate map is for wood exposed to weather above ground. Another map for major regional differences in potential for deterioration of wood used in contact with the ground can be found in several AWPA standards, such as C-3 on Piles, and other publications http://www.southernpine.com/whatisptwood.htm. As noted in the AWPA standards, in certain modified environments, such as banks along irrigation canals or irrigated residential or agricultural lands, a higher degree of protection might be needed than would be required in the local natural environment. It must also be recognized that within a specific regions, certain natural environments, such as river valleys or coastlines, may present greater potential for wood deterioration than the region as a whole.
