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The aim of this research is to determine the optimal rotation age of Populus deltoides plantations regarding to the timber and carbon sequestration values in the north of Iran. Two plantation types with a tree density of 3 by 3 m and of 3 by 4 m were considered in Choobar forest, northern Iran. Net present value (NPV) of timber and carbon were used for determining the optimal rotation age. Data on volume increment, carbon content, revenue, timber and carbon prices were collected to estimate NPV. In this study, we considered the effects of different plantation cost, land value and discount rates on the optimal rotation ages. Our results indicated, if economic value of timber is considered, optimal rotation ages were 10 and 8 years for 3 by 3 m and 3 by 4 m density, respectively. Optimal rotation ages considering carbon sequestration, in addition to timber value, increased to 14 and 11 years for the same two densities, respectively. Thus, integrating carbon sequestration value with timber economic value increased the optimal rotation ages and in turn change the optimal forest management. Sensitivity analysis indicate that optimal rotation ages increased with increasing plantation cost and decreased with increasing interest rate, while our results suggested that the optimal rotation age is not sensitive to the land value. Our results are important for land managers and carbon projects to optimize the used forest management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]