bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hardwood Tree Quality Development in the White Mountains of New Hampshire
Authors: Sendak Paul E. , Leak William B. , Rice Wanda B.
Published: August 2019

Few studies in New England have related timber cutting in northern hardwood stands to improvements in timber quality. The objective of this study was to assess tree-quality improvement for lumber production from initial cutting in a northern hardwood forest on the Bartlett Experimental Forest in New Hampshire that occurred about 40 yr ago. This study used nine compartments on the Forest that were initially cut in the 1950s. Cutting methods included three diameter-limit cuts and six individual tree selection cuts followed by timber stand improvement by chemical girdling.The nine compartments remained undisturbed by cutting for approximately 40 yr. By 1996, average tree grade had improved in all compartments, from 3.8 to 3.1 for the diameter limits combined and from 3.2 to 2.7 for the selection compartments combined. Returns per acre of standing inventory were influenced by tree quality but also were confounded with compartment volume and species mix. In general, return of standing inventory in 1996, whether per acre or per mbf, was greater in the selection compartments, but one of the diameter limits had a significant volume of high value red oak timber that skewed its total value upward. North. J. Appl. For. 17(1):9-15.
Growth of Three Pine Species after Eleven Years on Reclaimed Minesoils In Virginia
Authors: Torbert J.L. , Burger J.A. , Schoenholtz S.H. , Kreh R.E.
Published: August 2019

A reforestation experiment was established to test the growth of three pine species on two different surface-mined sites in the Appalachian coalfields of southwest Virginia. One site was mined just prior to enactment of the 1977 Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA), and one site was mined and reclaimed to its approximate original contour in accordance with post-SMCRA regulations. Three pine species (Pinus taeda, P. virginiana, and P. strobus) were planted on each site in 1981. A fertilization and an herbaceous weed control treatment were tested. Half the plots were fertilized with a 21 g fertilizer tablet at time of planting and a broadcast application of 50 kg/ha N as ammonium nitrate prior to the fourth growing season. Each plot was split to accommodate an herbaceous weed control treatment during the first 3 yr. After 11 yr, all three tree species grew very well on the prelaw bench site, but were less productive on the postlaw AOC site. The fastest growing species was loblolly pine, which averaged 22 ft tall. Aggressive herbaceous ground covers commonly established on surface-mined land to reduce erosion were successfully controlled by herbicides, resulting in a significant improvement in survival and growth for all tree species. Fertilization as used in this study had little effect on growth and was not as beneficial for tree establishment as the herbicide treatment. The performance of these commercial tree species in this study demonstrates that good forest management opportunities exist for the owners of surface-mined land. North. J. Appl. For. 17(3):95–99.
Computer Corner: A GIS-Based Technique for Randomly Selecting Sample Units on the Landscape
Authors: DeSanty Jacqueline A. , Flock Brian E. , Applegate Roger D.
Published: August 2019

We describe a simple rapid method for randomly selecting sample units using digital orthophotos in a GIS. A table of coordinates is generated to allow the use of a portable GPS unit to locate sample units in the field. This technique greatly improves use of random numbers tables, grids, and other manual methods of field sample selection and location. North. J. Appl. For. 18(2):42–43.
Six-Year Development of Regenerating Natural Hardwood Stands with HerbaceousWeed Control
Authors: McGill David W. , Brenneman Bruce B.
Published: August 2019

A study was established to examine the effects of herbaceous weed control (HWC) on the development of natural hardwood stands in southeastern West Virginia. In two Appalachian mixed hardwood stands, HWC treatments, consisting of Oust (4 oz/ac) or Oust (4 oz/ac) + Escort (1 oz/ac), were applied prior to budbreak during the first or second growing season after clearcutting. Fern and Rubus species dominated the herbaceous plant cover in the first 3 yr following treatment. Oust + Escort plots had significantly less total herbaceous plant cover than the check plots in the first 2 yr. Mean plot-level treatment effects were significant only in one of the two stands. Sixth-year average tree heights on HWC plots at one site were greater than those on the check plots, and ranged from 11.4 ft (Oust + Escort) to 9.2 ft (check). Six-year heights of tagged stems were greater for Fraser magnolia (Magnolia fraseri Walt.) on HWC plots. Although black cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrh.) had the greatest extent of crown damage from the herbicide treatments initially, average heights of tagged black cherry stems in both stands ranked higher on the HWC plots than on the check plots.
Reforestation of Orchard Stands and Savannahs on Pennsylvania's Allegheny Plateau
Authors: Horsley Stephen B.
Published: August 2019

Orchard stands and savannahs are forest openings that failed to regenerate after turn-of-the-century logging and have been dominated by dense herbaceous plant growth for 50 or more years. The effectiveness of herbicide application, mechanical site preparation, and fertilization on survival and growth of five species of seedlings was tested over a 6-year period. Neither site preparation nor fertilization significantly increased survival of any species above the control during the first 2 years after planting. Residues of picloram, one of the herbicides used during site preparation, reduced survival of all species, except white ash, below that of the control. Fertilization reduced survival of all species. Black cherry was the only species that grew better as a result of the treatments. Weed removal significantly increased black cherry seedling growth, but much of this increased growth was in branches, rather than the terminal shoot. Mechanical site preparation plus herbicide did not increase growth of black cherry seedlings above that of herbicide alone during the first 2 years and had the disadvantage of stimulating reinvasion by grass. Deer which penetrated the protective fence interfered with evaluation of growth after the second year. North J. Appl. For. 2:22-26, Mar. 1985.
Container Production of Yellow-poplar Seedlings
Authors: Houston Daniel B. , Heiligmann Randall B.
Published: August 2019

The effects of two container sizes, six potting media, and three fertilizer levels on growth of yellow-poplar were studied in the greenhouse. Maximum growth in this study was produced in 593 cc containers, a peat-perlite-soil (1:1:1, by volume) potting mix, fertilized twice-weekly with a modified Ingestad's solution. North J. Appl. For. 2:79-81, Sept 1985.
The Influence of Price Expectations on Forestry Decisions
Authors: Dennis Donald F. , Remington Susan B.
Published: August 2019

Real price trends in New Hampshire for 1964 to 1983 indicate much variation among species and products. Average annual changes in real stumpage price ranged from -3.0% for spruce/fir pulpwood to +5.6% for high-quality red oak sawtimber from 1964 to 1983. Optimum rotation ages and soil rent values vary significantly with different expectations of stumpage prices. For eastern white pine, a 2% upward trend in real stumpage price lengthens the rotation age by 13 years and almost quadruples soil rent over the amount with constant real prices. Failure to consider the dynamic nature of stumpage prices will lead to suboptimal forestry decisions. North J. Appl. For. 2:81-83, Sept. 1985.
Response of Yellow Birch and Sugar Maple to Release and Fertilizer
Authors: Hannah Peter R.
Published: August 2019

Small yellow birch and sugar maple pole-size trees 4 to 7 in dbh growing on four forest sites in Vermont did not respond significantly to fertilizers during a study period of up to 14 years. Trees were released by thinning, and various combinations of N, P, K, and lime were applied at up to three rates. Improved growth was best related to crown size. Selecting and releasing large-crowned crop trees of good form on the best sites may be the best investment of time and money.

North. J. Appl. For. 2:108-110, Dec. 1985.
Growth Response of Pitch × Loblolly Pine Hybrids Following Crown Touching Release
Authors: Fox T.R. , Kreh R.E.
Published: August 2019

The 13 yr growth response of pitch × loblolly pine hybrids following a crown touching release conducted at age 7 in the Virginia Piedmont was evaluated. Growth of crop trees was related to the degree of crown release as measured by the free-to-grow (FTG) rating that ranged from 0 (no release) to 4 (complete release on all sides). Diameter growth of the released crop trees (FTG ≥ 3) was 63% greater than diameter growth in nonreleased trees (FTG < 3), while height growth was 9% greater. At age 20, the average dbh of the crop trees was 10.3 in., while the average dbh of the nonreleased trees was 7.8 in. The live crown ratio in the crop trees was significantly greater than in the nonreleased trees (47% vs. 38%), which contributed to the growth response. However, stem quality of the crop trees was poorer than in the nonreleased trees, due to the persistence of branches on the lower bole. These results suggest that sawtimber size pitch × loblolly hybrid pines can be grown in a short rotation if adequate growing space is provided.
Preharvest Manual Herbicide Treatments for Controlling American Beech in Central West Virginia
Authors: Kochenderfer Jeffrey D. , Kochenderfer James N. , Warner David A. , Miller Gary W.
Published: August 2019

Application costs and efficacy were determined for manual preharvest herbicide treatments applied to control American beech (Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.) that was interfering with the establishment and development of black cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrh.) in central West Virginia. The treatments consisted of four levels of basal area reduction using combinations of two application methods: hack-and-squirt injection with Accord (41.5%) and basal spraying with Garlon 4 (61.6% butoxyethyl ester). The treatments were applied in late Aug. 2000 and evaluated 12 months after treatment. A numerical rating system ranging from 1 to 7 (0–100% crown affected), based on a visual estimation of top kill, was used to evaluate the efficacy of each treatment. Trees receiving a rating of 5 (75% crown control) or greater were considered controlled. After 12 months, almost complete control (99%) was achieved with both application methods. Injection of ≥6.0-in. dbh beech stems also controlled 52% and 21.6% of small untreated beech understory stems in the 2-ft tall to 0.9-in. dbh and 1.0- to 5.9-in. dbh classes, respectively. Average application costs (chemical and labor) ranged from $39.28/ac for injection of 159 stems/ac ≥6 in. dbh to $80.32/ac for basal spraying 396 stems/ac in the 1.0- to 5.9-in. dbh class and $230.09/ac for basal spraying 3,743 stems/ac in the 2-ft tall to 0.9-in. dbh class. Basal spraying the numerous small 2-ft tall to 0.9-in. dbh stems dramatically increased treatment costs. Black cherry occupied 30% of total stand basal area and accounted for 91% of total stand value ($6,288.10/ac). Application costs expressed as a percentage of total stand value ranged from <1% for the injection-only treatment up to 6.5% for combination basal spray and injection treatments. The individual stem herbicide application methods described here are applicable to the steep topography and small nonindustrial ownerships found in Appalachia.
Height Development of Upper-Canopy Trees Within Even-Aged Adirondack Northern Hardwood Stands
Authors: Nyland Ralph D. , Ray David G. , Yanai Ruth D.
Published: August 2019

Knowledge of the relative rates of height growth among species is necessary for predicting developmental patterns in even-aged northern hardwood stands. To quantify these relationships, we used stem analysis to reconstruct early height growth patterns of dominant and codominant sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.), yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis Britton), white ash (Fraxinus americana L.), and America beech (Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.) trees. We used three stands (aged 19, 24, and 29 years) established by shelterwood method cutting preceded by an understory herbicide treatment. We analyzed 10 trees of each species per stand. Height growth was similar across stands, allowing us to develop a single equation for each species. Our data show that yellow birch had the most rapid height growth up to approximately age 10. Both sugar maple and white ash grew more rapidly than yellow birch beyond that point. Beech consistently grew the slowest. White ash had a linear rate of height growth over the 29-year period, while the other species declined in their growth rates. By age 29, the heights of main canopy trees ranged from 38 ft for beech to 51 ft for white ash. Both yellow birch and sugar maple averaged 46 ft tall at that time. By age 29, the base of the live crown had reached 17, 20, 21, and 26 ft for beech, sugar maple, yellow birch, and white ash, respectively. Live–crown ratios of upper-canopy trees did not differ appreciably among species and remained at approximately 40% for the ages evaluated. These results suggest that eliminating advance regeneration changes the outcome of competition to favor species other than beech. North. J. Appl. For. 21(3):117–122.
Biological Efficacy of Gypchek Against a Low-Density Leading-Edge Gypsy Moth Population
Authors: Webb R. E. , White G. B. , Sukontarak T. , Podgwaite J. D. , Schumacher D. , Diss A. , Reardon R. C.
Published: August 2019

The USDA's Slow-the-Spread (STS) program seeks to retard the continued spread of the gypsy moth using ecologically desirable treatments such as Gypchek. At “trace” population levels, evaluation of treatment success by defoliation reduction, egg mass reduction, burlap counts, or larval collection is not feasible. We adapted the “bugs-in-bags” technique to evaluate an operational application of Gypchek against trace populations of gypsy moths in Wisconsin, an STS area. Late first- or early second-instar gypsy moth larvae were placed, 1 per bag or 10 per bag, in sleeve cages placed over treated foliage one hour posttreatment. Mortality observed for larvae placed 10 per bag was equivalent to that recorded for larvae placed 1 per bag, and both should approximate the mortality occurring to the larvae scattered in nature. A single application of Gypchek applied in 9.5 liters of Carrier 038 at 1012 polyhedral inclusion bodies per hectacre was found to induce a higher rate of infection in blocks treated in the early morning than in blocks treated later in the morning, correlating significantly with a lowering of relative humidity and an increase in temperature and wind speed. Recorded levels of efficacy (24–67%) did not meet quarantine objectives; however, Gypchek, which kills only the gypsy moth, remains a product of choice by many land managers for use in certain environmentally sensitive areas. These results provide such land managers with a realistic assessment of the level of efficacy that can be expected from this formulation of Gypchek used at the currently recommended dose. North. J. Appl. For. 21(3):144–149.
Diameter Growth in Even- and Uneven-Aged Northern Hardwoods in New Hampshire Under Partial Cutting
Authors: Leak William B.
Published: August 2019

One important concern in the conversion of even-aged stands to an uneven-aged condition through individual-tree or small-group cutting is the growth response throughout the diameter-class distribution, especially of the understory trees. Increment-core sampling of an older, uneven-aged northern hardwood stand in New Hampshire under management for about 50 years established the baseline diameter-growth responses of the sapling, pole, and sawtimber strata. Growth responses of the poletimber and sawtimber in a 70-year-old even-aged stand were comparable to the uneven-aged stand after an initial partial cutting treatment; growth of the understory began approaching comparable rates after the second entry about 25 years after the first cut. North. J. Appl. For. 21(3):160–163.
Wet Heartwood Distribution in the Stem, Stump, and Root Wood of Black Spruce in the Quebec Boreal Forest, Canada
Authors: Krause Cornelia , Gagnon Réjean
Published: August 2019

Wet heartwood has been studied since the beginning of the 20th century. The present work focused on wet heartwood of 44 black spruces (Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.) from boreal forest swampy sites Quebec, Canada. Trees were studied to characterize their tree crown shape, quickly identify them in the field, measure their moisture content, establish their moisture content distribution pattern, evaluate the wet heartwood volume inside their stem, and find the possibility of water entrance in this species. Black spruces with wet heartwood were characterized by a typical tree shape with a small number of living branches, short branches, and a clump of green needles at the top of the tree. The wet heartwood was characterized by high moisture content at the stem base and decreased with stem height. Wet heartwood was observed as high as 5 m above stem base for trees around 10.5 m in height. Moisture content of sapwood along the stem varied from 81 to 161%, whereas in dry heartwood, it was around 43% but reached more than 100% in the wet heartwood. Wet heartwood volume in the first 3.25 m of black spruce stems averaged 13% with variations between 2 and 35% per study site. Twelve stumps had wet heartwood moisture contents reaching 143% or higher. Moisture content of wet heartwood in root sections closest to the stump varied along a gradient: lower or absent at ground level and increasing with depth up to a maximum value before decreasing again. North. J. Appl. For. 22(1):12–18.
The Response of Conifer and Broad-Leaved Trees and Shrubs to Wildfire and Clearcut Logging in the Boreal Forests of Central Labrador
Authors: Simon Neal P.P. , Schwab Francis E.
Published: August 2019

To assess the differences between forest management and natural disturbance, we retrospectively compared crown cover of woody plant species between burned and clearcut sites after 5, 14, and 27 years of succession. All 16 sites had been dominated by black spruce (Picea mariana) before disturbance. We found no difference in species richness between disturbance types, but richness was lowest on 5-year-old sites for both disturbances. Burned and clearcut sites differed in the cover of woody plant species, differences increasing slightly with time since disturbance. Both balsam fir (Abies balsamea) and black spruce were more abundant on 14- and 27-year-old clearcut plots than burned plots. Black spruce cover was always greater than fir, but the spruce:fir ratio on clearcut plots was lower than on burned plots. Our data suggest that fire and clearcut logging affect postdisturbance succession differently. Contrary to other studies, logging resulted in more commercially valuable black spruce than fire, and broad-leaved woody plants were not in greater abundance on logged sites. However, the persistence of fir through logging suggests that the resulting forest would be of lower commercial value than a pure black spruce forest. North. J. Appl. For. 22(1):35–41.
A Model-Based Approach to Developing Density Management Diagrams Illustrated with Lake States Red Pine
Authors: Mack Timothy J. , Burk Thomas E.
Published: August 2019

Density management diagrams (DMDs) are widely used within the North American forestry community. DMDs, as traditionally implemented, have some limitations, including lack of automation, poor age and mortality accounting, and inflexible product yield reporting. We propose a model-based approach to circumvent these limitations. Resinosa, an interactive DMD for Lake States red pine, takes this approach. We describe the stand-level, self-thinning-constrained growth model that is the basis for Resinosa to illustrate our arguments. Resinosa allows foresters to make quick and easy comparisons among management regimes.North. J. Appl. For. 22(2):117–123.
Afforestation Motivations of Private Landowners: An Examination of Hardwood Tree Plantings in Indiana
Authors: Ross-Davis Amy L. , Broussard Shorna R. , Jacobs Douglass F. , Davis Anthony S.
Published: August 2019

While a number of studies have investigated the objectives and characteristics of nonindus-trial private forestland (NIPF) owners as they relate to afforestation and reforestation decisions, very few studies have addressed these among NIPF owners in the Central Hardwood Forest Region of the United States, and even fewer have linked these to plantation establishment success. This article reports on such an examination in Indiana. Landowners were found to value their land for the privacy it provides, as a place of residence, and as a legacy for future generations. They afforested primarily to provide for future generations, to supply food and habitat for wildlife, and to conserve the natural environment. Seedling survival was lowest on sites owned by individuals who did not value their land as a legacy for future generations. Many NIPF owners are engaging in requisite behaviors to ensure plantation establishment success. The results of this study are discussed in terms of their importance as indicators of the influence of cost-share programs and the insight they provide into potential target areas for future programs.North. J. Appl. For. 22(3):149 –153.
The Impact of Minnesota's Forest Management Guidelines on the Time Required to Set Up Public Agency Timber Sales
Authors: Blinn Charles R. , Kilgore Michael A.
Published: August 2019

Twenty-six public agency tracts of timber were offered for sale in northern Minnesota through a sealed bidding process during Fall 2002. Each tract was set up and offered for sale both with and without the requirement to apply a specific set of timber-harvesting guidelines. Foresters who set up each tract recorded their time spent on a variety of timber sale preparation activities. On average, it took 57% longer to set up the timber sales when timber harvesting guidelines were incorporated into the sale design—an additional 20 min/ac over the time required to set up a timber sale when guidelines were not used. With an assumed opportunity cost of $20/h, the value of that additional timber sale set-up time averaged $6.80/ac. Several ideas are presented to reduce the additional time associated with incorporating guidelines into timber sales. They include both strategies applicable across all timber sales, as well as those that are site dependent.North. J. Appl. For. 22(3):175–180.
FoliageߝSapwood Area Relationships for Balsam Fir in North-Central Minnesota
Authors: Gilmore Daniel W. , Zenner Eric K.
Published: August 2019

Leaf area is an important determinant of plant productivity. Because foliage is difficult to measure directly, allometric relationships often are used to predict branch-level and tree-level attributes such as total mass, needle mass, crown biomass, and projected leaf area. Two modeling approaches (i.e., the “crown weighing” and the “branch summation” approach) and two model forms (i.e., a nonlinear model form and a linear logarithmic model form) have generally been used to develop allometric relationships. It is unclear, however, whether these approaches result in similar predictions, which of these model forms provides us with the better predictions, and whether allometric equations developed for the same tree species in one region can be safely applied in another region. To investigate these questions, allometric equations to predict branch-level attributes (mass and leaf area) were constructed for balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.) in Minnesota. The “branch summation” approach was used to construct equations to predict crown biomass and projected leaf area from sapwood area, dbh, and crown length. These predictions were compared to those from the crown weighing approach. No statistically significant differences were detected. Results also indicated that the logarithmic form of the allometric model was the model of choice over the nonlinear form. Furthermore, branch-level and tree-level equations developed for balsam fir from north-central Minnesota differed from those of other regions within the range of data for the trees sampled. This reinforces the need for developing localized allometric equations.North. J. Appl. For. 22(3):203–210.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Forest Stewardship Program in West Virginia: Ten-Year Assessment
Authors: Jennings Brian M. , McGill David W.
Published: August 2019

Sixty-three percent of the 2,656 West Virginia Forest Stewardship Program (FSP) participants sampled in this study responded to a survey aimed at assessing the implementation rates of the forest management practices recommended in their forest stewardship plans. Logistic regression models were used to determine factors related to the implementation of 10 different forestry practices. Thirty-nine factors were evaluated for these 10 different binary (implemented, not implemented) response variables including landowner demographics, participation in other private landowner assistance programs, motivation behind enrollment in the FSP, and whether a specific practice was recommended in a plan. Implementation of these 10 practices statistically was associated to 23 of the 39 factors. Participation in other private landowner assistance programs and practice recommendation were two commonly occurring factors related to implementation of forestry practices.North. J. Appl. For. 22(4):236–242.
Influence of Stand Thinning on Ice Storm Injury in Maine Hardwood Stands
Authors: Morris Julie L. , Ostrofsky William D.
Published: August 2019

In January 1998, a severe ice storm struck the northeastern United States, causing widespread injury and, in some areas, substantial damage to forest stands. In Maine, hardwood species were most severely damaged. Landowners have been concerned that thinned stands are more susceptible to ice injury than their unthinned counterparts. The objectives of this study were to investigate injury and recovery from the ice storm in recently thinned (within 5 years) and unthinned hardwood stands. Four field sites were chosen, and individuals in both thinned and unthinned areas were measured to determine damage and recovery values. Species examined included white ash (Fraxinus americana L.), American beech (Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.), red oak Quercus rubra L.), paper birch (Betula papyrifera Marsh.), and red maple (Acer rubrum L.). Damage variables measured included pre- and poststorm crown class, percent crown loss, and number and size of broken branches. Recovery variables included transparency rating, number and location of sprouts, and cambial electrical resistance readings for each individual. Results indicate that thinned stands did not suffer the effects of the 1998 ice storm greater than the unthinned stands, for all stands combined. However, some differences at individual sites were detected. We suggest that landowners should not be overly concerned with continuing to thin their hardwood stands. A thinned stand is not necessarily at greater risk for ice injury. In addition, the thinning may actually accelerate the recovery process by creating individuals that are more vigorous than their unthinned counterparts. Heavily thinned stands, however, may be at a greater risk to ice injury.North. J. Appl. For. 22(4):262–267.
Abiotic Factors Influencing Deer Browsing in West Virginia
Authors: Campbell Tyler A. , Laseter Benjamin R. , Ford W. Mark , Odom Richard H. , Miller Karl V.
Published: August 2019

We present a comparison of woody browse availability and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) use among clearcut interiors, skidder trail edges, and mature forest and an evaluation of the relative importance of aboitic factors in predicting browsing pressure within regenerating clearcuts in the central Appalachians of West Virginia. We sampled 810 1-m2 plots in or adjacent to nine regenerating clearcuts (8–19 ha) during the summer of 2001. Availability and use of woody browse did not differ between clearcut interior and skidder trail plots for any species observed. Plots in the adjacent mature forest had less woody browse availability and higher utilization. Overall use of available woody browse in clearcuts was >15%. Combining all woody species, elevation (wI = 0.618) and distance to mature forest (wI = 0.379) were more important than landform index, plot surface shape, aspect, and slope in predicting deer browsing pressure in regenerating clearcuts. We believe that without management activities aimed at reducing deer browsing, in many parts of this region the ability of forest managers to regenerate stands will be jeopardized and the forested ecosystem will be compromised.
Growth Intercept Methods for Predicting Site Index in White Pine Plantations in the Glaciated Areas of Ohio
Authors: Brown James H.
Published: August 2019

Growth intercept (GI) techniques were evaluated for estimating site quality in white pine stands planted on old-field sites in the Wisconsin-aged glaciated areas of northern and western Ohio. Correlations between growth of trees below the breast high (bh) annual growth increment andheight growth from bh and above were not statistically significant. Site index estimates were made using age at bh and height from the bh annual growth increment to the growing tip. Three-year and 5-year growth beginning 3 years above the bh annual increment and 10-year growth beginning oneinternode above bh were significantly more correlated with height than were intercepts beginning at bh. In multiple regression equations developed for predicting site index, 3-, 5- and 10-year intercepts, along with age at bh, accounted for 76, 77, and 80%, respectively, of the variationin tree heights and 35-year site indices varied from 60 to 83 ft. Combining clay content of the B2 soil horizon with GI and age increased the variation accounted for by 3-, 5-, and 10-year GI equations to 79, 78, and 81%, respectively, and the improvement in site index estimatesover those using GIs alone was not more than ±2 ft within any given GI measurement.
Release of Naturally Established White Pine Seedlings from Competition: An Objective Field Index
Authors: Nolet Philippe , Bouffard Daniel , Lorenzetti François
Published: August 2019

Gap cutting has been recently prescribed in Quebec to favor the regeneration of midtolerant species such as white pine. However, this new practice may lead to increased competition, jeopardizing the survival of established seedlings. One important question, therefore, is how much care will be required to ensure that the seedlings will reach the sapling stage. More importantly, a practical field tool is needed to determine under which conditions a seedling must be released from competition. For the present study, three sets of 42 white pine (Pinus strobus L.) seedlings were selected from 4-year-old gaps in a mixed tolerant hardwood–white pine stand so as to cover the widest range of competition intensity, and so the main competitor species would be individuals of one of the following: pin cherry (Prunus pensylvanica L.f.), trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.), or wild raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.). A seedling vigor index was developed, and counts of and measurements on stems of competitor species were conducted. Several competition indices were computed, and regression analyses were performed to determine which indices explained the most of the observed variation in seedling vigor. A composite competition index to be used as a decision rule to release a white pine seedling was developed by combining selected competition indices, balancing precision of the models with ease-of-use in the field. Finally, the integration and the economic assessment of the field index into the planning of regeneration efforts are presented.
A Merchantable and Total Height Model for Tree Species in Maine
Authors: Westfall James A. , Laustsen Kenneth M.
Published: August 2019

A model for predicting merchantable and total tree height for 18 species groups in Maine is presented. Only tree-level predictor variables are used, so stand-level attributes, such as age and site quality, are not required. A mixed-effects modeling approach accounts for the correlated within-tree measurements. Data-collection protocols encompass situations in which merchantability to a specified top diameter is not attained due to tree characteristics. The advantage of using the height prediction model over taper-derived estimates of merchantable height is demonstrated.
Vole Damage Control in Forest Plantations
Authors: Sharew Hailu , Kays Jonathan S.
Published: August 2019

The effects of five treatments (mowing with broadcast baiting, mowing with hand baiting, hand baiting with no mowing, herbicide, and untreated control) on vole population and damage to forest plantations were evaluated. All treatments caused reductions in vole feeding, as well as reduced seedling damage and potential seedling mortality. This study shows the practical importance of monitoring planting sites for vole populations in the fall prior to and after planting and suggests an immediate control of high and severe vole population ratings with rodenticide with or without mowing to minimize potential seedling mortality. North. J. Appl. For. 23(4):297–300.
Predicting Crown Radius in Eastern White Pine (Pinusstrobus L.) Stands in New Hampshire
Authors: Jordan Gregory J. , Ducey Mark J.
Published: August 2019

Using data from 449 trees on 69 growth-and-yield plots located in southern and central New Hampshire, we developed models of crown radius for stand-grown eastern white pine (Pinus strobus L.) in New Hampshire. In addition to dbh, we tested single-tree measurements sometimes collected in forest inventories (such as live crown length and live crown ratio [LCR]), as well as simple variables to compensate for stand density and competitive position of the tree. A model using dbh, stand basal area (BA), and LCR provided the best predictions, but a model using dbh, stand BA, and the ratio of dbh to stand quadratic mean diameter proved nearly as accurate. We compare these equations to previously published equations for white pine.
Growing Your Mulch On-Site: Using Site Produced Sorghum/Sudan as a Mulch for Hybrid Poplar
Authors: Demchik Mike , Krause Norman
Published: August 2019

Killed cover crops are being used increasingly for weed control in horticultural systems. We propose the use of killed cover crops as a method of erosion and weed control in afforestation and conservation plantings. We grew sorghum-Sudan in two plots during 2001. We cut the crop and planted hybrid poplar cuttings in spring 2002. We did no other weed control during the season. As controls, we planted two adjacent plots with hybrid poplar cuttings and used conventional tillage and hand weeding to maintain a weed-free bed. The survival was greater in the plots with sorghum-Sudan mulch than in the conventionally managed plots; however, the growth was not significantly different. Based on this initial test, killed cover crops appear to have potential for erosion and weed control in afforestation and conservation plantings.
Christmas Tree Response to N Fertilization and the Development of Critical Foliar N Levels in New York
Authors: Slesak Robert A. , Briggs Russell D.
Published: August 2019

The effectiveness of fertilization as a tool to increase growth rate and quality of Christmas trees depends on the ability to identify trees that are limited by nutrition. Foliar analysis is one approach to identify nutrition-limited trees, but it requires pre-established diagnostic criteria for application. The objective of this study was to assess growth response of Christmas trees to N fertilizer, and to develop critical foliar N levels for species commonly grown in New York. We evaluated diameter growth and foliar N concentration response of balsam fir (Abies balsamea [L.] Mill.), Canaan fir (Abies balsamea var. phanerolepis [Fern.]), Fraser fir (Abies fraseri [Pursh] Poir.), concolor fir (Abies concolor [Gord. and Glend.] Lindl.), and Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco) midrotation Christmas trees to N fertilization on 11 sites distributed across central New York. Two fertilizer treatments were applied: 1 oz N tree−1 as ammonium nitrate (AN) and chicken manure compost (CMC) applied at 0.6 oz N tree−1. Current annual diameter increment (CAI) for Canaan fir, Fraser fir, and Douglas-fir increased in response to AN. Two-year CAI for AN-treated trees was greater than control trees for all species with the exception of Canaan fir. Application of CMC had no effect on CAI the first year after application but did increase 2-year CAI for concolor and Fraser fir. Vector analysis, which simultaneously displays foliar mass, N concentration, and N content, indicated that all species responded positively to AN in more than 50% of the cases (with the exception of Canaan fir). Foliar response to CMC was weak, exhibiting a positive response in only 38% of the cases. Based on the foliar response of trees to AN, the following critical foliar N concentrations are proposed for Christmas trees in New York: balsam fir, 1.65%; concolor fir, 1.75%; Canaan fir, 1.60%; Douglas-fir, 1.45%; and Fraser fir, 1.60%.
Predicted and Observed Sugar Maple Mortality in Relation to Site Quality Indicators
Authors: Nolet Philippe , Hartmann Henrik , Bouffard Daniel , Doyon Frédérik
Published: August 2019

In response to high mortality rates after selection cutting, the Quebec Ministry of Natural Resources developed a new tree classification system, named MSCR, to better identify trees with high mortality probabilities. The main objective of this article was to verify whether sugar maple mortality is more abundant on poor quality sites than on rich quality sites using (1) sample plots, measured only once, in which mortality is predicted using MSCR, and (2) remeasured sample plots that provide a real cumulative 10-year mortality assessment. The results presented show that sugar maple predicted mortality (based on MSCR) is greater on good sites than on bad sites. This result is in contradiction with our 10-year mortality results and the literature. Combining strong components of MSCR with those of other systems described in the literature, we put forward the conceptual basis for a new classification system for the northern hardwoods.
Nontarget Tree Mortality after Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) Injection with Imazapyr
Authors: Lewis Kevin , McCarthy Brian
Published: August 2019

Tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima Miller [Swingle]) can be managed easily with herbicide injection. However, the potential herbicide translocation to neighboring trees must be evaluated before widespread recommendations for herbicide injections. We assessed the nontargettranslocation of imazapyr (Arsenal), an herbicide commonly used to manage woody vegetation in forests, from injected tree-of-heaven to neighboring noninjected stems. Targeted imazapyr injections not only killed all injected tree-of-heaven, but also killed 17.5% of neighboring (within 3 m) noninjected tree-of-heaven and eight other tree species 62 weeks after treatment. Nontarget mortality from herbicide translocation decreased as the distance from injected tree-of-heaven increased (up to 3 m) and as stem diameter of noninjected plants increased. The plausible modes ofinter- and intraspecific herbicide translocation include root grafts, mutually shared mycorrhizal fungi, root exudation and absorption, and/or leaf senescence. Because tree-of-heaven is clonal, patch size and vegetation heterogeneity will be an important determinant of herbicide injectionprotocols. In forest environments with many small patches (i.e., high edge to interior ratio) or mixed species stands, nontarget hardwoods are at an increased risk of mortality. In isolated large patches (with lower edge to interior ratio) or dense monospecific clones, injection risk to nontarget species will be relatively low.
Comparing Double-Sampling Efficiency Using Various Estimators with Fixed-Area and Point Sampling
Authors: Dahl Christopher A. , Harding Brent A. , Wiant Harry V.
Published: August 2019

In this study, we compare the efficiency of double sampling using point sampling and fixed-area plots for sawtimber volume estimates in a mixed-hardwood, oak-dominated stand. Multiple sample sizes and combinations were evaluated to determine optimum double-sample ratios. Results indicatedthat double, point-sampling schemes are more efficient in terms of field time and sampling errors than double-sampling schemes incorporating fixed-area plots. Data suggested that the most efficient ratio of measured and nonmeasured points with double sampling varies on the basis of the nonmeasuredvariable used and desired SE percentage levels for the inventory.
Differences in Computed Individual-Tree Volumes Caused by Differences in Field Measurements
Authors: Westfall James A.
Published: August 2019

Individual-tree volumes are primarily predicted using volume equations that rely on measured tree attributes. In the northeastern United States, the Forest Inventory and Analysis program determines tree volume using dbh, bole height, proportion of cull, and species information. These measurements are subject to variability due to a host of factors. The sensitivity of the volume equations were assessed in relation to changes in each of the input variables. Additionally, data from 3,345 trees that were independently remeasured were used to assess differences in gross and net volumes between operational and audit measurements. Evaluations were conducted for dbh, bole height, and proportion of cull classes, across 18 different species groups. Differences in bole height and proportion cull measurements were found to contribute the most to volume differences. Surprisingly, trees with relatively short bole heights were affected more than trees having taller bole heights. Differences in dbh and species identification contributed little to the volume differences. An analysis of the full data set across all realized volume differences showed no statistical bias in either gross or net volume. These results show the influence that specific field measurements have on accurate estimation of volume, which may be useful for targeting specific attributes where additional training or refined measurement protocols could improve consistency.
Recent Changes to the Northeast Variant of the Forest Vegetation Simulator and Some Basic Strategies for Improving Model Outputs
Authors: Ray David G. , Saunders Mike R. , Seymour Robert S.
Published: August 2019

The northeast variant of the Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS-NE) produces output that is of considerable use to forest managers in the northeastern United States. Designed to be relatively easy to use and requiring modest data inputs, FVS-NE is readily available at no cost and is well documented. However, as with all models, users need to appreciate model limitations and have realistic expectations. The purpose of this field note is to present some strategies for improving the reliability of predictions from FVS-NE.
Comparison of Prediction Equations for Estimating Inside Bark Diameters for Yellow-Poplar, Red Maple, and Red Pine in West Virginia
Authors: Brooks John R. , Jiang Lichun
Published: August 2019

The ability to predict inside bark diameters was investigated using taper data for red maple, red pine and yellow-poplar from several stands in West Virginia. Inside bark estimates were based on Grosenbaugh's STX prediction equations, a segmented polynomial taper function fitted to inside bark diameter data, an existing polynomial prediction equation published for several hardwood species in this region and a nonlinear prediction equation fitted to the taper data. Grosenbaugh's STX is a computer program for processing tree measurements and includes three equations to allow flexibility and greater accuracy in predicting inside bark upper stem diameters. The nonlinear equation had the smallest overall prediction error in almost all cases investigated. The taper function had the largest error but does not require knowledge of the specific upper stem outside bark diameter. No single STX bark option was found to be optimal for all species or for a single species from two different geographic regions.
A Forest Manager's Guide to Butternut
Authors: Woeste Keith , Farlee Lenny , Ostry Michael , McKenna James , Weeks Sally
Published: August 2019

Exotic insect pests and pathogens have dramatically reduced the quantity and quality of several trees species in North America. Butternut (Juglans cinerea L.) is one such species. This review discusses the identification of butternut, the current status of butternut, and thenature of the threats that influence its survival, all in the context of what forest managers need to know to make difficult choices they face when managing butternut. Options for encouraging regeneration are presented, as well the current status of recovery efforts.
Viability of Northern Pin and White Oak Reserve Trees in Wisconsin Scrub Oak Sites
Authors: Mujuri Elijah , Demchik Michael C.
Published: August 2019

Retention of reserve trees can serve multiple objectives when harvests are conducted on scrub oak sites. The objective of the study was to determine the growth and vigor response of northern pin and white oak held as reserve trees from harvests occurring over a 15-year time period onscrub oak sites in Central Wisconsin. Reserve trees were evaluated for volume growth, epicormic branching, live crown ratio, and tree vigor. White oak maintained or improved in vigor and exhibited increased rates of volume growth with no measured mortality. Northern pin oak, although exhibitingincreased volume growth, tended to decline in vigor and experienced an overall annual mortality rate of 5.5%. For managers that are considering multiple objectives, white oak can provide a long-lived vigorous reserve tree while northern pin oak may survive but will experience decline and higherrates of mortality, which may contribute to a long-term goal of snag retention as an element of wildlife habitat.
Expected Rates of Value Growth for Individual Sugar Maple Crop Trees in the Great Lakes Region: A Comment
Authors: Wagner John E.
Published: August 2019

Webster et al. (Webster et al. 2009. Expected rates of value growth for individual sugar maple crop trees in the Great Lakes region. North. J. Appl. For. 26:133‐140) discuss updated recommendations for marking individualsugar maple trees in the Great Lakes region within a selection silvicultural system based in part on current market information. They calculate the annual rate of value growth (RVG) of individual trees for a single 10-year period using an internal rate of return (IRR) formula. It is the authors'misinterpretation of the IRR and RVG as an interest or discount rate similar to that used in a net present value calculation that is the focus of this comment. The interest rate includes information not contained in the IRR and is used to estimate whether an investment (e.g., marking decisionsfor sugar maple trees) will increase (or decrease) an individual's wealth. The distinction between what the IRR or RVG describes and the interest or discount rate is critical for determining the economic and financial implications of management decisions.