bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Southeast Timber Supply: How will it be Affected by Changing Forestry in South America, Canada, and the Northeast?
Authors: Zobel Bruce J.
Published: August 2019

Those responsible for forest investments in the southeastern U.S. are interested in how much and how soon timber produced in other regions—particularly the fast-growth forests in tropical and subtropical areas—will be competitive. The author presents his views on both present and potential effects on the Southeast's timber supply of evolving forestry in South America, Canada, and the northeastern U.S. He concludes that the southern pine region will remain a major supplier of timber and even increase its share of the world market in the immediate future.
Detecting and Aerially Evaluating Southern Pine Beetle Outbreaks—Operational Guides
Authors: Billings Ronald F.
Published: August 2019

When southern pine beetle (SPB) populations reach high levels in the Gulf Coast region, aerial detection crews often report more infestations than ground personnel can promptly handle. Based on information from detection and control records, in combination with knowledge of beetle habits, operational guidelines are presented for setting realistic ground-check priorities during detection flights and for periodically reevaluating uncontrolled infestations from the air.
Increasing Latex in Pine Seed Coating Impairs Repellency and Germination
Authors: Campbell T. E.
Published: August 2019

The repellent currently recommended for protecting pine seeds sown directly contains 2 gallons Arasan 42-S, I pound Endrin 50-W, and 10 ounces latex per 100 pounds of seed. Weathering prior to germination causes some repellent loss but seed protection from rodents is not significantly decreased. Greater amounts of latex allow more depredations by several rodent species and decrease germination.
A Practical Seed Trap for Pine Stands of Coastal South Carolina
Authors: Scholtens John R.
Published: August 2019

Specifications and design criteria are given for a wooden frame and wire mesh trap to be used in sampling pine seedfall. Notable features of this trap are ease of construction, durability, security of collected seed, precise sampling area, minimal maintenance, and low cost.
The Increment Contract
Authors: Greene John L.
Published: August 2019

Long-term timber management contracts give forest industry firms most of the advantages of fee-simple land ownership and avoid most of the disadvantages. The increment contract, a type of management contract already used by several pulp and paper firms in the South, employs a unique method for determining and making payments to woodland owners based on the average annual increment of wood fiber their land is capable of producing. Particularly attractive to woodland owners, it gives firms that use it a competitive advantage in seeking raw materials.
The Effect of Carbon Revenues on the Rotation and Profitability of Loblolly Pine Plantations in East Texas
Authors: Huang Ching-Hsun , Kronrad Gary D.
Published: August 2019

This study determined the profitability and financially optimal thinning and final harvest rotation of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) managed exclusively for timber production or for dual products of timber production and carbon sequestration. The results suggest that 1) depending on landowner’s alternative rate of return, the inclusion of carbon revenues in forest management may shorten or prolong the optimal timber-carbon rotation length, compared to the optimal rotation that maximizes timber value only; 2) the effect of carbon revenues on the optimal rotation length and the percentage gain in soil expectation value is larger on low-productivity sites than on high-productivity sites, and is larger for high interest rates than for low interest rates; and 3) low-productivity, unprofitable sites may become profitable when carbon revenue is included and optimized together with the timber revenue.South. J. Appl. For.30(1):21–29.
Lifetimes of US Paper and Allied Products Mills: Insights from a Duration Analysis
Authors: Sun Changyou
Published: August 2019

This study examined the life duration of US paper mills during the past 30 years. The US paper industry has been expanding, but its profit margin has been volatile and decreasing. The hazard rate curve revealed that there was increasing risk of closure during the first 7 years for new mills and for established mills, after the age of 18 years. Parametric duration analysis concluded that large mills had longer life duration. Merger and acquisition (M&A) activities and changes of ownership increased the life duration of mills. Mills located in the South had longer life duration while entry time of mills had limited impact. South. J. Appl. For. 30(1):5–12.
Economic Analyses of Wood Chip Mill Expansion in North Carolina: Implications for Nonindustrial Private Forest (NIPF) Management
Authors: Snider Anthony G. , Cubbage Frederick W.
Published: August 2019

Potential economic benefits of wood chip mills in North Carolina and likely forest management changes for nonindustrial private forest (NIPF) landowners were analyzed. The net effects of wood chip mills provided a small net stumpage price increase (1.9%) benefit to forest landowners, had very small economic welfare effects on total economic returns to timber producers and consumers (>0.1%), and had a moderate impact on reducing aggregate site preparation costs (11.6%). Discounted cash-flow analyses indicated that wood chip markets would increase returns somewhat more for pine management than for hardwood management, but the much greater sawtimber prices, especially for pines, still would favor long rotations and pine management. These analyses indicate that markets provided by wood chip mills would tend to create more harvest of pulpwood as part of existing harvests or in new timber harvests of small stands, but would not be likely to encourage clearcutting of much more valuable sawtimber stands or large-scale changes in forest management practices.
Intensive Forest Management Affects Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda L.) Growth and Survival on Poorly Drained Sites in Southern Arkansas
Authors: Rahman M.S. , Messina M.G. , Fisher R.F.
Published: August 2019

We investigated if intensive forest management could enhance loblolly pine seedling growth and survival on West Gulf flatwoods where winter and spring waterlogging and frequent summer drought limit loblolly pine performance. Fertilization, chemical vegetation control, and mechanical site preparation (combined bedding and ripping) were tested in different combinations on six sites established in southern Arkansas in early 1999. Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) seedling performance was monitored in the first two growing seasons (1999 and 2000) and fifth growing season (2003) after planting. Fertilization increased growth in all years. Mechanical site preparation affected only height and only until year 2. There was no effect of chemical vegetation control in any measurement year, although chemical vegetation control resulted in greater growth in combination with fertilization than did either treatment applied separately. Tree survival averaged 92% a few months after planting and then decreased significantly at year 1 (77%), and remained comparable until year 5, the last year data were collected. Tree survival was not affected by mechanical site preparation, fertilization, or chemical vegetation control. Intensive forest management can increase loblolly pine seedling growth and survival on poorly drained sites in the West Gulf.
Estimation of Forest Area Affected by Local Ordinances: A Virginia Case Study
Authors: Prisley Stephen P. , Daversa David R. , Mortimer Michael J.
Published: August 2019

Local governments may enact ordinances that have a substantial impact on forestry operations. Direct estimation of the economic impact of ordinances requires site-specific forest inventory data and management assumptions. In this study, we attempt to quantify, for four counties in Virginia,the forest area that would be subjected to timber harvesting restrictions under local ordinances. Ordinances that restrict timber harvesting within buffer zones of roads, streams, and property boundaries were simulated for four study counties. Using GIS overlay analysis with forest cover data,estimates of forest area within these buffers were obtained. In addition to this direct effect, we considered indirect effects of ordinances as they fragment potential forest management parcels to small sizes (<20 ac) deemed less conducive to operational forest management. Direct effectsranged from 9 to 33% of operable forest area and averaged 21% of operable forest area. Indirect effects averaged 7% of operable forest area, or ⅓ of the direct effect. Ordinances focused on protecting visual quality affected twice as much forest area as ordinancesdirected toward preserving water quality. Of the total forest area in these four counties, 13.6% lies in protected areas, 27.7% is in inoperable small parcels (prior to ordinances), and 16.7% is affected directly or indirectly by ordinances, leaving only 42% offorest area potentially available for management. South. J. Appl. For. 30(4):182–187.
Forest-Related Ordinances in Virginia: A Case Study in Regulatory De-evolution
Authors: Mortimer Michael J. , Stull Lauren , Prisley Stephen , Slack David
Published: August 2019

An inventory of Virginia's counties and incorporated cities was conducted in 2005 to detect the presence of forest-related ordinances. Comparative inventory results suggest that the number of ordinances appears to have increased from 44 in 1992 to 377 in 2005. Local governments in Virginiahave enacted forest-related ordinances addressing erosion and sediment control, the use of prescribed fire, forestry in floodplains and wetlands, scenic limitations, timber harvesting, and the use of pesticides. Nearly all (97%) local governments have been involved in the regulationof forestry to some extent. Study observations include inconsistent regulatory standards among municipalities, potential conflicts with state mandates, and concern for the uncertain effects on the management of private forestland. Policy implications might include state action to provide greateruniformity in local standards, clarification of the relationship between state-level requirements and local implementation, refining the definition of terms such as “silviculture,” and state reaction by amending Virginia's Right to Practice Forestry statute. South. J. Appl. For. 30(4):182–187.
Improving Timber Trucking Performance by Reducing Variability of Log Truck Weights
Authors: Hamsley Amanda K. , Greene W. Dale , Siry Jacek P. , Mendell Brooks C.
Published: August 2019

We evaluated weight data from 79,760 truckloads delivered to 24 southern forest products mills to assess opportunities for improving trucking efficiency by reducing the variability of gross, tare, and net weights. We compared the mean gross vehicle weight (GVW) at each mill to the federal weight limit of 40 tons and to any mill overweight policy. A benchmark group of suppliers was identified at each mill as the five with the lowest coefficient of variation (CV) on their GVWs to compare with the other suppliers at each mill. All mills had mean GVWs significantly different from the federal limit at the 90% confidence level or stronger. A majority of loads delivered to each mill (77–100%) complied with mill GVW policies. At most mills, the benchmark group had higher mean GVWs and net weights, as well as lower GVW variability. Decreased GVW variability was associated with higher payloads. Mean tare weight and mean net weight exhibited an approximately 1:1 relationship at 15 mills. Benchmark groups at 14 mills had significantly larger payloads, and we project that they had 4–14% lower per-ton hauling costs than other suppliers at the mills. These results suggest that operating at the reduced variability level of the benchmark groups across the 221 million tons of roundwood annually consumed in the US South could result in a savings of $100 million annually.
Influence of Mine Soil Properties on White Oak Seedling Growth: A Proposed Mine Soil Classification Model
Authors: Showalter Julia M. , Burger James A. , Zipper Carl E. , Galbraith John M. , Donovan Patricia F.
Published: August 2019

Appalachian landowners are becoming increasingly interested in restoring native hardwood forest on reclaimed mined land. Trees are usually planted in topsoil substitutes consisting of blasted rock strata, and reforestation attempts using native hardwoods are often unsuccessful due to adverse soil properties. The purpose of this study was to determine which mine soil properties most influence white oak (Quercus alba L.) seedling growth, and to test whether these properties are reflected adequately in a proposed mine soil classification model developed for application in field assessments of mine soil suitability for reforestation. Seventy-two 3-year-old white oaks were randomly selected across a reclaimed site in southwestern Virginia that varied greatly in spoil/site properties. Tree height was measured and soil samples adjacent to each tree were analyzed for physical, chemical, and biological properties. Our proposed mined land classification model used rock type, compaction, and slope aspect as mapping criteria. Tree height, ranging from 15.2 to 125.0 cm, was regressed against mine soil and site properties. Mapping units were not well correlated with differences in tree height. Microbial biomass, pH, exchangeable potassium, extractable inorganic nitrogen, texture, aspect, and extractable phosphorous accounted for 52% of the variability in tree growth. The regression model shows that white oaks were most successful on northeast-facing aspects, in slightly acidic, sandy loam, fertile mine soils that are conducive to microbial activity. Nutrient availability, although found to be highly influential on tree growth, was not adequately represented in the classification model. We recommend that pH be included as a classification criterion, because it was correlated with all nutrient variables in the regression model.
Assessing the Safety Training Needs of Spanish-Speaking Workers in the Southeastern Logging Industry
Authors: O'Neal Brandon , Shaffer Robert , Rummer Robert
Published: August 2019

Safety in logging operations in the southeastern United States has long been an important issue. Recently, a growing number of Spanish-speaking workers (SSW) have gained employment on logging operations in the region. There is concern that injury and fatality rates could increase due to inexperience, possible lack of proper safety training, and language-barrier problems attributed to SSW. The objectives of this study are to, (1) determine the current percentage of the logging workforce in the southeastern United States comprised of SSW, (2) document the current state of logging safety training as it relates to SSW, and (3) recommend strategies to address the short- and long-term logging safety training needs of SSW. Data regarding the current population of SSW were collected in 2005 through field surveys of 1,890 logging crews operating in the southeastern United States. Additional data were acquired through field interview questionnaires completed in the fall of 2005 with 41 sample logging contractors who employ SSW. As of 2005, SSW represented 3.37% of the logging industry workforce in the southeastern United States. Ten percent of the operations surveyed employed one or more SSW. Of the questionnaire respondents, 90% employed at least one SSW who understood English well enough to effectively interpret instructions to the other SSW. Seventy-three percent of the loggers interviewed believed that “hands-on” demonstration training was the most effective way to present safety training to SSW. A majority of the respondent loggers believed that simply distributing safety training manuals and brochures printed in Spanish was unlikely to be effective, because only about one-half of the SSW they employed were literate. Recommendations were developed, based on the relevant literature and data collected through the questionnaire, to address the safety concerns associated with SSW in the logging industry.
Extent of Recreational Incidents and Determinants of Liability Insurance Coverage for Hunters and Anglers in Mississippi
Authors: Sun Changyou , Pokharel Sangita , Daryl Jones W. , Grado Stephen C. , Grebner Donald L.
Published: August 2019

Private landowners refrain from opening their lands for recreational use in fear of potential liability. This study examined the extent of actual bodily injuries and property damages sustained by hunters and anglers in Mississippi during the hunting and fishing seasons from 2002/03 to 2004/05. The percentage of liability insurance coverage on hunters and anglers and determinants of the pattern were also analyzed. Data were acquired from a telephone survey on a random sample of adults who purchased Mississippi hunting and fishing licenses for the 2004/05 season. The survey revealed that 1% of respondents had incidents related to their recreational activities from 2002/03 to 2004/05. About 17% of respondents had liability insurance coverage in the 2004/05 season. Age, years of hunting, and income were positively related to the purchase of liability insurance. In addition, Caucasians or nonresidents of Mississippi had a higher likelihood of having insurance coverage. The results revealed that special liability insurance has been helpful in reducing monetary losses from recreational use, and furthermore, liability insurance may be more effectively promoted in several ways.
Utilizing Forest Biomass by Adding a Small Chipper to a Tree-Length Southern Pine Harvesting Operation
Authors: Westbrook Michael D. , Dale Greene W. , Izlar Robert L.
Published: August 2019

We investigated the addition of a small chipper (Conehead 565) to a mechanized, tree-length system to harvest tops, limbs, and understory (1–4 in. dbh) biomass. Three replicates of three treatments (A, tree-length only; B, tree-length with limbs and tops chipped; and C, tree-length with limbs, tops, and understory chipped) were evaluated in a 33-year-old slash pine plantation on a flatwoods site in the lower coastal plain of Echols County, Georgia. The site contained an estimated 7.7 green tons/ac of understory biomass with an average dbh of 2 in. Water oak, swamp bay, and red maple accounted for 73% of the stems. Roundwood production averaged 65.8 tons/ac and did not differ significantly across the three clearcut treatments. A vanload of chips was produced for every 18 and 5 truckloads of roundwood in Treatments B and C, respectively. There were significant differences in the weight per acre of chips produced between Treatment B (3.8 green tons/ac) and Treatment C (10.8 green tons/ac) at the α = 0.1 significance level but not at the 0.05 significance level. Total production averaged 28.6 tons per scheduled machine-hour and did not differ significantly across the three treatments. Green chips averaged 45% moisture content when produced, and laboratory results showed heat content values of 19.1 MJ/kg, which is comparable to other woody biomass. Nutrient removals from the site were relatively low, with losses associated with Treatment B comparable to annual atmospheric deposition. Raking costs associated with site preparation were significantly reduced (by $23/ac) on Treatment C, where the understory was also chipped. Both Treatment B and Treatment C had significantly less area lost to debris piles (1.0%) after site preparation than tree-length harvesting without chipping residuals (1.7%). Chipping logging residues along with understory stems in a clearcut harvest produced quality energy chips at a competitive cost, reduced site preparation cost, and increased plantable area.
A Spatial Panel Data Analysis of Tree Planting in the US South
Authors: Li Yanshu , Zhang Daowei
Published: August 2019

This study used panel data models with spatial error correlation to analyze private tree planting in the US South from 1955 to 2003. Controlling for statewide, fixed effects allows us to disentangle the effect of spatial interaction from that of state heterogeneity and omitted variables. The results show that there is significant spatial interdependence among the southern states in private tree planting. Harvest rates, softwood sawtimber price, income levels, cost of capital, and federal and state cost-share programs are important factors affecting nonindustrial private (nonindustrial private forestland [NIPF]) tree planting. Harvest rates, softwood sawtimber and pulpwood prices, and planting cost are important factors affecting forest industry (FI) tree planting. Finally, the Soil Bank Program has had substitution effects on southern FI tree planting and nonsubsidized NIPF tree planting.
Comparison of Systematic Line-Point and Double Sampling Designs for Pine and Hardwood Forests in the Western Gulf
Authors: Coble Dean W. , Grogan Jason
Published: August 2019

This study compared systematic line-point sampling (SS) and double sampling (DS) methodologies on an operational basis for four typical forest cover types found in the Western Gulf Coastal Plain. The purpose was to determine whether DS saves time while not sacrificing precision in an operational cruise. DS cruises were more efficient than SS controls (standard of comparison) 50%–80% of the time, depending on the forest cover type. For these cruises, gains in efficiency ranged from 33 to 106%. Gains were associated with increased precision rather than total time savings, which is ideal for sale cruises. An additional DS cruise design, which would be ideal for management cruises, was evaluated and resulted in time savings with slight loss of precision.
A Standardized, Cost-Effective, and Repeatable Remote Sensing Methodology to Quantify Forested Resources in Texas
Authors: Unger Dan , Kroll James , Hung I-Kuai , Williams Jeffrey , Coble Dean , Grogan Jason
Published: August 2019

A standardized remote sensing methodology was evaluated for its use in quantifying the forested resources of the state of Texas in a timely and cost-effective manner. Landsat data from 2002 were used to create a land cover base map encompassing a four-county study area in East Texas. Site-specific and non-site-specific accuracy assessments of the classified map indicate that overall the 2002 base map accuracy of 72.78% was within acceptable remote sensing standards for Landsat data and that forest cover types derived from 2002, 1987, and 1980 Landsat data were within 4.4, 0.5, and 7.4% agreement with Forest Inventory and Analysis Program data collected in 1988, 1988, and 1980 respectively. A classified image representing five age class distributions for all forest cover types, derived through a Boolean manipulation of forest cover type maps from 2002, 1997, 1992, 1987, 1984, 1980, and 1974, indicates that overall map accuracy for age class distributions based on 30-m Landsat data from 1974 through 2002 was 58.69%. Overall, results indicate that remote sensing in conjunction with ground truthing can accurately quantify forest composition and age distributions using standardized and readily available data.
Dual-Cropping Loblolly Pine for Biomass Energy and Conventional Wood Products
Authors: Scott D. Andrew , Tiarks Allan
Published: August 2019

Southern pine stands have the potential to provide significant feedstocks for the growing biomass energy and biofuel markets. Although initial feedstocks likely will come from low-value small-diameter trees, understory vegetation, and slash, a sustainable and continuous supply of biomass is necessary to support and grow a wood bioenergy market. As long as solidwood products are more valuable, bioenergy production will not be the primary market for southern pine. A study exploring a dual-cropping system for southern pine bioenergy and solidwood products was begun in 1982 in Louisiana to determine the phosphorus (P) nutritional requirements of the system. Fertilization of 60 kg ha−1 of P was required to produce 90% of the maximum volume at the age of 22 years. Direct-seeding pine in the interrows of a traditional pine plantation produced about 10.2 Mg ha−1 of biomass for energy at the age of 5 years but had no lasting effect on the planted pine height, diameter, or standing volume. The system is a viable method to produce both bioenergy and solidwood products. Herbaceous competition control and nitrogen (N) fertilization likely would make the system even more productive and profitable.
Survival of Longleaf and Loblolly Pines Planted at Two Spacings in an East Texas Bahiagrass Silvopasture
Authors: Oswald Brian P. , Farrish Kenneth W. , Beierle Micah-John
Published: August 2019

The practice of combining intensive timber and forage production on the same site, a silvopasture system, offers landowners the potential for diversification of income. The establishment of such a system in a pasture setting offers unique challenges compared with traditional timber or forage systems. In 2003, a silvopasture demonstration was established south of Carthage, Texas, in a pasture dominated by bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum). Four replications of treatments composed of open pasture, longleaf (Pinus palustris) and loblolly (Pinus taeda) pine planted at a traditional spacing, and longleaf and loblolly pine planted at a silvopasture spacing were established. Due to high mortality rates, replanting of trees occurred in 2004 and 2005. Third-year seedling survival was highest for loblolly pine in both planting systems, and forage production levels did not significantly differ among treatments. Wild hog damage contributed to the low longleaf pine seedling survival rates.
Effects of Urban Sprawl on Hunting Participation in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Poudyal Neelam C. , Cho Seong-Hoon , Hodges Donald G.
Published: August 2019

Hunting is an important but declining activity in the Southeastern United States. Although our understanding of what causes this decline is incomplete, the period of decline coincided with rapid urbanization in the region. Urban sprawl, which is changing sociocultural traditions and leisure patterns, may be a driver in declines in hunting. Therefore, using county-level data for the Southeastern United States, we developed a log-linear demand model of hunting to estimate effects of urban sprawl on hunting. Results suggest that an increase in urban population and dispersal of low-density residential development in the wildland reduced hunting participation in the region. This implies that feasibility and effectiveness of hunting as a wildlife management tool may decrease if the current urbanization trend persists in the region. Results also suggest a need to promote hunting within urban populations and for maintaining hunting opportunities by promoting tighter management of urban sprawl to conserve huntable areas, increasing public hunting land, and possibly increasing public access to private lands.
Native American Nonindustrial Private Forest Landowners in Southeastern Oklahoma
Authors: Holley A. Gordon , Taylor Eric L. , Ross William G.
Published: August 2019

This study attempts to characterize the Native American forest landowners in a three-county area of southeastern Oklahoma through a mail-out landowner survey. The total forestland owned by the survey respondents totaled to 12,211 ac with a mean of 140 ac. However, 56% of the respondents own less than 80 ac. More than one-half of the Native American respondents live on or adjacent to their forestland and only 17% are absentee landowners. Almost 60% of the landowners indicated personal reasons as their primary reason for owning their forestland followed by 19% for economic uses and 17% for recreational uses. Over one-half of these landowners indicated they have harvested their forest sometime in the past. Of the 45% that have not harvested their forest in the past, 31% indicated that either stumpage prices were too low or that their trees were not mature yet. Although most Native American forest landowners are involved in managing their forestland, lack of knowledge on forest management and harvesting strategies is an impediment to more effective, active management.
Stock Type, Subsoiling, and Density Impact Productivity and Land Value of a Droughty Site
Authors: Blazier Michael A. , Dunn Michael
Published: August 2019

Management practices that overcome low seedling survival and poor tree growth of well-drained, droughty sites can improve their productivity and profitability. This study was established to explore tree and stand growth trends, potential forest product yields, and land expectation values of loblolly pine on a droughty site in response to (1) seedling stock type, (2) subsoiling, and (3) stand density regime. In winter 1993, container (CONT) and bareroot (BARE) seedlings were planted with or without subsoiling at 746 trees per hectare (TPH). BARE seedlings were planted without subsoiling at 1,493 TPH to provide a comparison between low-density treatment combinations and a conventional (CONV) management regime for this site type. Tree growth was monitored periodically through age 13 years. Yield trajectories were estimated by predicting forest product yields with FASTLOB using age 13 years stand characteristics, and land expectation value was determined from revenue predictions and costs associated with each treatment. Low-density regimes that included CONT seedlings or subsoiling before BARE seedling planting improved tree growth through midrotation and had yield estimates comparable with that of a CONV regime. However, land expectation values associated with subsoiling were lower than those of low-density CONT and CONV regimes because of its cost and negligible benefits for seedling survival.
Influence and Effectiveness of Financial Incentive Programs in Promoting Sustainable Forestry in the South
Authors: Jacobson Michael G. , Greene John L. , Straka Thomas J. , Daniels Steven E. , Kilgore Michael A.
Published: August 2019

State forestry officials responsible for forestry incentive programs in each of the 13 southern states were surveyed concerning their opinions on financial incentive programs available to nonindustrial private forest owners. The forestry officials were asked to name and describe the public and private programs available in their state, to assess forest owners' awareness of each program, its appeal among the owners aware of it, its effectiveness in encouraging sustainable forestry and enabling owners to meet their objectives, and the percent of program practices that remain in place and enrolled acres that remain in forest over time. They also were asked to suggest ways to improve the programs. The Forest Stewardship, Forest Land Enhancement, and Forest Legacy Programs were among the top rated federal programs. Programs sponsored by states and private organizations tended to be more narrowly targeted than federal programs and scored well for specific attributes. The forestry officials' suggestions for program improvement centered largely on improving program visibility and availability, increasing and ensuring long-term consistency in program funding, and simplifying the application and approval process.
Does Row Orientation Affect the Growth of Loblolly Pine Plantations?
Authors: Amateis Ralph L. , Burkhart Harold E. , Carlson Colleen A.
Published: August 2019

Analysis of covariance methods applied to long-term loblolly pine spacing trial growth data showed that the orientation of rows with regard to a particular azimuth direction had no significant impact on either basal area or dominant height growth through the age of 20 years. Results were consistent for a range of planting densities and spacings and across a range of ages that included very young ages before crown closure. These results suggest that for loblolly pine growing in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain areas of Virginia and North Carolina, the selection of row orientation at plantation establishment can be made based on criteria other than growth.
Opportunities for Fertilization of Loblolly Pine in the Sandhills of the Southeastern United States
Authors: Albaugh Timothy , Allen H. Lee , Fox Thomas R. , Carlson Colleen A. , Rubilar Rafael A.
Published: August 2019

We examined growth responses to fertilization applied one or two times at three Sandhill sites versus annually at the Southeast Tree Research and Education Site (SETRES; and also in the Sandhills) and compared observed responses to the Southwide average response for midrotation fertilization (55 ft3 ac−1 year−1). At sites 1 and 2, average annual volume growth response (AVG) was significantly less (39 and 43%, respectively) than at SETRES, whereas site 3 AVG was similar to that of SETRES. At sites 2, 3, and SETRES, the AVGs of 82, 90, and 128 ft3 ac−1 year−1, respectively, significantly exceeded the Southwide average response of 55 ft3 ac−1 year−1. The diameter class with the most stems per acre at sites 2 and 3 increased 2 in. with fertilization. Resulting diameters were less than chip-n-saw size. Sandhill site fertilization may be appropriate where the superpulp premium is sufficient or wet-condition wood supply is limited. However, given the large Sandhill site fertilizer response, decisions regarding spacing, thinning, product goals, and fertilization become interdependent and require adequate planning to maximize economic return from fertilization. Foliar nutrient concentration assessments were recommended to identify nutrients other than nitrogen and phosphorus that may limit growth when fertilizing Sandhill sites.
Effect of Thinning on Aboveground Biomass Accumulation and Distribution in Naturally Regenerated Shortleaf Pine
Authors: Sabatia Charles O. , Will Rodney E. , Lynch Thomas B.
Published: August 2019

The accumulation and relative distribution of standing biomass to different aboveground tree components was investigated in 46–53-year-old naturally regenerated shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata Mill.) stands growing in the Ouachita Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma that were thinned to different levels 16 years previously. The thinning levels were 50% full stocking, 70% full stocking, and a 140% full stocking unthinned control. After 16 years, the unthinned controls had more total aboveground biomass, bole wood, bark, and foliage standing biomass per hectare but had less branch standing biomass than the more heavily thinned stands. Foliage biomass as a proportion of total stand biomass was similar among the three treatment levels. Bark biomass proportion was significantly less in thinned to 50% treatment compared with the other treatments. Bole wood biomass proportion in thinned to 50% treatment was significantly less than in the control. The proportion in branches was significantly greater in the thinned treatments compared with the proportion in the unthinned control. These results suggest that thinning increases biomass distribution to branches at the expense of stems, after 16 years of postthinning stand growth.
Enhancing Forest Technology: Research Priorities of the Southern Forest Sector
Authors: Vance Eric D. , Cazell Ben H. , Chappell H. Nick , Duzan Howard W. , Jacobson Marshall A. , Johnson John R. , Rakestraw James L.
Published: August 2019

The southern forest sector has undergone dramatic changes over the past decade, including shifts in land ownership (from integrated forest product companies to organizations with different objectives and time horizons) and losses of forestland to development. The ability to support sustainable biomass production for traditional and emerging markets is at risk because of a decline in industry research infrastructure and because of dilution of government agency and university forest productivity research with other priorities. To assess forest productivity research priorities, a survey was distributed to integrated forest products companies, real estate investment trusts, timber investment management organizations, and consulting organizations based in the South. Environmental services were a top priority for all organization types, cited as a high or very high priority by 74% of respondents, followed by forest management (64%), improving wood quality delivered to mills (57%), and biotechnology and tree improvement (39%). The highest priority individual research needs were to quantify the potential of managed forests to sequester carbon and sustain water quality and biodiversity and to update growth and yield models to account for changing stand, genetic, management, and environmental factors. Respondents rely mostly on university cooperatives and industrial research organizations for both basic and applied/technology transfer research.
State of Pine Decline in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Eckhardt Lori , Sayer Mary Anne Sword , Imm Don
Published: August 2019

Pine decline is an emerging forest health issue in the southeastern United States. Observations suggest pine decline is caused by environmental stress arising from competition, weather, insects and fungi, anthropogenic disturbances, and previous management. The problem is most severe for loblolly pine on sites that historically supported longleaf pine, are highly eroded, or are not managed. The purposes of this technical note are (1) to describe the symptomology and extent of pine decline in the southeastern United States; (2) to describe its connection with root disease, resource stress, and silviculture; and (3) to summarize the consensus opinion of scientists and land managers during a workshop sponsored by the US Army Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program regarding the scope of this syndrome and the best research avenues to counter its potential effect on the sustainability of southern pine forests.
Relationships among Diameter at Breast Height and Loblolly Pine Attributes from Local and Nonlocal Seed Sources near the Western Edge of the Natural Range of Loblolly Pine
Authors: Lynch Thomas B. , Will Rodney E. , Hennessey Thomas C. , Heinemann Robert A. , Holeman Randal T.
Published: August 2019

Individual loblolly pine sample trees planted in 1983 as part of a seed source and density study on Carter Mountain near Broken Bow, Oklahoma, were used to investigate the effects of seed source and density on the relationships between dbh, height, crown length, and individual tree volume. The study site is a rocky, mountain soil near but outside the western boundary of the loblolly pine natural range in Oklahoma. North Carolina coastal and Oklahoma–Arkansas seed sources were planted at 4 × 4-, 6 × 6-, 8 × 8-, and 10 ×10-ft spacings. Individual tree measurements were available at plantation ages 17, 18, 19, 22, and 25 years. The dbh of sample trees ranged from 4 to 13 in., and heights ranged from approximately 30 to 70 ft. Regression relationships between individual tree dbh and height indicated a significant difference due to seed source, with the North Carolina source being approximately 7% taller across the dbh range in these data. This indicates that the North Carolina seed source is taller for a given dbh even at the extreme western edge of the loblolly natural range. The average dbh-height relationship also was significantly affected by density, but the North Carolina seed source was taller on average per given dbh for all densities. In addition to being taller for a given dbh, the North Carolina had a longer live crown and more cubic stem content than the Oklahoma–Arkansas seed source.
Comparison of the Arithmetic and Geometric Means in Estimating Crown Diameter and Crown Cross-Sectional Area
Authors: Randolph KaDonna C.
Published: August 2019

The use of the geometric and arithmetic means for estimating tree crown diameter and crown cross-sectional area were examined for trees with crown width measurements taken at the widest point of the crown and perpendicular to the widest point of the crown. The average difference between the geometric and arithmetic mean crown diameters was less than 0.2 ft in absolute value. The mean difference between crown cross-sectional areas based on the geometric and arithmetic mean crown diameters was less than 6.0 ft2 in absolute value. At the plot level, the average difference between cumulative crown cross-sectional areas based on the geometric and arithmetic mean crown diameters amounted to less than 2.5% of the total plot area. The practical significance of these differences will depend on the final application in which the mean crown diameters are used.
Impact of Imidacloprid for Control of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid on Nearby Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Assemblages
Authors: Churchel Melissa A. , Hanula James L. , Berisford C. Wayne , Vose James M. , Dalusky Mark J.
Published: August 2019

Imidacloprid, a systemic insecticide that acts on the nervous system, is currently being used to control hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae Annand), which is damaging hemlock trees. The objective of this study was to determine whether soil injection with imidacloprid for hemlock woolly adelgid control near streams adversely affects aquatic invertebrates. Eastern hemlocks (Tsuga canadensis) in the watersheds surrounding four streams in the southern Appalachian region of Georgia and North Carolina were treated with imidacloprid. Addie Branch was the only stream that exhibited a possible effect from imidacloprid treatment. However, the data followed the same pattern as the other treatment streams, but with a more pronounced decrease in taxa due to adult emergence. Only a trace amount of imidacloprid was detected in one water sample from Holcomb Tributary over a period of 2 years, and no effect was observed on the aquatic macroinvertebrates in that stream. However, caution should be used when applying these results to other areas with different soil types (e.g., low organic matter content) that may not bind imidacloprid as tightly. Our results indicate that soil injections of imidacloprid can safely be used in the southern Appalachian area to control hemlock woolly adelgid.
Virginia's Woody Biomass Market: Opportunities and Implications
Authors: Conrad Joseph L. , Bolding M. Chad
Published: August 2019

Recent interest in producing energy from woody biomass has raised questions about the coexistence of wood-to-energy markets and the traditional forest products industry in Virginia. This study examined recent trends in the forest products industry and the wood-to-energy market, as well as the potential for competition between the two industries. Results indicate that the forest products industry has struggled recently, whereas wood-to-energy markets have expanded. Current opinion varies as to whether or not the wood-to-energy market will negatively affect the forest products industry. At present, 75% of Virginia's pulpmills are located within 50 miles of a wood-to-energy facility, and all pulpmills are within 75 miles. Recent trends in pulpwood prices, fuel chip prices, and Virginia law indicate that competition for raw material is unlikely in the short term. However, this research indicates that in the longer term, depending on government policies and technological progress in conversion technologies, competition between forest industry and wood-to-energy companies is possible.
Operational Forest Stream Crossings Effects on Water Quality in the Virginia Piedmont
Authors: Aust Wallace M. , Carroll Mathew B. , Bolding M. Chad , Dolloff C. Andrew
Published: August 2019

Water quality indices were examined for paired upstream and downstream samples for 23 operational stream crossings and approaches during four periods. Stream crossings were (1) portable bridges (BRIDGE), (2) culverts backfilled with poles (POLE), (3) culverts with earth backfill (CULVERT), and (4) reinforced fords (FORD). The four operational periods were (1) prior to crossing installation (INITIAL), (2) after installation (INSTALL), (3) during harvest (HARVEST), and (4) after road closure (CLOSURE). Differences (Δ) in water samples collected above and below stream crossings were analyzed for Δtotal dissolved solids (ΔTDS), ΔpH, Δconductivity, Δtemperature, and Δsediment concentration. Data were analyzed as a completely randomized design with unequal replication (four to seven replications). Significant differences were observed (α < 0.10) among crossing types for Δtemperature, ΔTDS, ΔpH, and Δconductivity. Overall, the least disruptive crossing type for water quality was BRIDGE, but road standards and approach characteristics were also important. Modeled estimates of erosion demonstrated that CULVERT approaches had higher potential erosion than other crossings. Water quality parameters were most negatively affected during INSTALL and HARVEST and were apparently improving during CLOSURE. Permanent crossings were associated with significantly greater temperatures than temporary crossings, likely because of increased width of streamside management zone removal. Water quality effects could be minimized by installing appropriate best management practices during all harvest periods rather than waiting until CLOSURE. Findings should be used cautiously because individual site factors such as climate, site, soil, and operational variability will alter effects.
Effect of Fertilization on Growth and Wood Properties of Thinned and Unthinned Midrotation Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda L.) Stands
Authors: Antony Finto , Schimleck Laurence R. , Daniels Richard F. , Clark Alexander
Published: August 2019

Growth and wood properties were measured on breast height cores collected from two stands, New Bern and Bertie, located in the lower Coastal Plain of North Carolina. The New Bern site was thinned before fertilizer application, and the Bertie site was not. The study was laid out in a randomized complete block design with each treatment replicated in four blocks at New Bern and two blocks at Bertie. The treatments were different levels of nitrogen fertilization: control (no nitrogen) and 112, 224, and 336 kg/ha. In addition, 28 kg/ha of phosphorus was included with each treatment. The objective of this study was to examine the response in growth and wood properties to midrotation fertilization in a thinned versus an unthinned stand. A significant decrease in latewood specific gravity was observed following nitrogen fertilization in the thinned stand but not in the unthinned stand. Whole ring width, latewood width, and earlywood width significantly increased following nitrogen fertilization at New Bern but not at Bertie. Whole ring specific gravity, earlywood specific gravity, latewood percentage, and earlywood:latewood ratio did not show any change due to fertilization in either stand. Responses in both growth and wood characteristics lasted for 2–3 years following fertilization and depended on the amount of fertilizer applied and whether or not the site was thinned. The response to nitrogen application was significant for the thinned stand only.
Snags and Cavity-Nesting Birds within Intensively Managed Pine Stands in Eastern North Carolina, USA
Authors: Homyack Jessica A. , Paxton Barton J. , Wilson Michael D. , Watts Bryan D. , Miller Darren A.
Published: August 2019

Although snags are often considered to be a limiting factor for cavity-nesting birds within intensively managed pine (Pinus spp.) stands, there is little information regarding occurrences of snags and cavity-nesting birds for such stands in the southeastern United States. Therefore, during 2002–2003, we measured characteristics of individual snags (n = 1,218) and quantified the relative abundance of cavity-nesting birds (n = 204 observations; nine species) in 35 forest stands representing seven thinning classes (prior to thinning, three age classes following a first commercial thinning, and three age classes following a second commercial thinning entry) in intensively managed pine stands in eastern North Carolina. Snag populations were dynamic, with 649 snags falling and 75 new snags recruited between years. Stands in later thinning classes tended to have snags with larger diameters, less bark, and fewer limbs, and they were taller and more decayed (P < 0.05). Our data suggest that neither density of snags (P = 0.31) nor relative abundance of cavity-nesting birds (P = 0.25) differed strongly among thinning classes. Without active management, low recruitment coupled with the high loss rates that we observed ould lead to low snag densities in older managed stands. Therefore, we suggest that forest managers consider retaining large-diameter dead or live trees as reserve trees through multiple rotations to increase or maintain snags in managed stands.