Abstract: Significant results have been achieved since the “Three Total Volumes”inspection was started in the northeast and Inner MongolianRey state-owned forest areas 19 years ago. In this paper, the “Three Total Volumes” inspection process and role were systematically reviewed and its important significance was stated. It was pointed out that the “Three Total Volumes”inspection was to meet the needs of excercising administration by law and implementing the scientific development concept, and to meet the needs of protection and sustainable management of forest resources under the current management system. Besides, this paper also presents an analysis on the current situation and existing problems, and puts forward relevant guiding principles and ideas and measuresfor improvement as well.

Key words: Three Total Volumes, state-owned forest area, commercial timber