bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Landscape Level Validation of a Douglas-Fir Beetle Stand Hazard-Rating System Using Geographical Information Systems
Authors: Dodds Kevin J. , Ross Darrell W. , Randall Carol , Daterman Gary E.
Published: August 2019

A geographical information system (GIS) and historical infestation data were used to validate a Douglas-fir beetle hazard-rating system currently in use by the USDA Forest Service in parts of the West. This hazard-rating system is based on stand characteristics including percent Douglas-fir basal area (BA), stand BA, average Douglas-fir dbh, and stand age. To validate the hazard-rating system, stand information and aerial detection survey maps from 1996–1999 were combined in a GIS. Analyses determined that the highest amount of acreage infested and highest tree mortality occurred in moderate- and high-hazard stands, although the total area of these stands was less than that in other hazard classes. Furthermore, as beetle populations shifted from endemic to epidemic population levels, more acres were infested and tree mortality was greater in high-hazard areas. The use of spatial technologies and aerial detection survey maps provided a novel alternative for validating a forest insect hazard-rating system. West. J. Appl. For. 19(2):77–81.
Slash Compression Treatment Reduced Tree Mortality from Prescribed Fire in Southwestern Ponderosa Pine
Authors: Fulé Peter Z. , Jerman Jason L. , Gould Peter J.
Published: August 2019

Intensive thinning prescriptions intended to restore historic forest structure have produced heavy broadcast slash fuel loads in northwestern Arizona, sometimes leading to high tree mortality following prescribed burning. Mechanical slash compression with a D-6 bulldozer to reduce the severity of fire effects on residual trees was evaluated. Ten of 42 measured trees (24%) died within 2 years after burning of broadcast slash, and crown scorch of trees without slash compression treatment averaged 26%. In contrast, no trees died after burning of compressed slash and crown scorch averaged <3%, even though the total fuel loading was indistinguishable from the broadcast slash treatment. The practice of raking fuels away from the boles of old-growth trees also contributed to reduced scorch as compared to younger, unraked trees. Slash compression is a viable method of reducing mortality, offering ecological and economical tradeoffs. Benefits include the ability to reduce large quantities of slash, safeguarding old-growth tree survival while rapidly achieving open forest structure. Costs include paying for equipment operation as well as the possibility of damage to soils or plants. West. J. Appl. For. 19(3):149–153.
Comparing the Value of Leave-Tree Buffers with a Forest Excise Tax Credit in Washington State
Authors: Reeves Laurence H.
Published: August 2019

In 1999, the Washington State legislature was preparing to pass the “Forest and Fish” Bill that would implement more restrictive forest practice rules. To help offset the compliance costs of this bill, stakeholders wanted a credit on the forest excise tax for harvests impacted by the new requirements. However, there was no agreed-on estimate of just how much value was being left under current forest practice rules, much less for the proposed rules, making it difficult to determine an adequate tax credit amount. Although the legislature ultimately passed the bill along with a 16% forest excise tax credit, concerns over the credit amount led the legislature to mandate a study examining the value of leave-tree buffers compared with tax credit amounts on harvest units impacted by the new rules. As a result of this directive, the Department of Revenue implemented a 2-year study identifying 1,325 logging permits that received the tax credit and had completed harvests. Of those permits, 115 had their leave-tree buffers cruised to determine buffer value relative to tax credit amount. The results were stratified by harvest units on either side of the Cascade Crest and those belonging to small harvesters. Although there were individual cases where the tax credit exceeded the leave-tree value, overall leave-tree values for the different strata were between 5 and 23 times greater than total tax credit amounts. West. J. Appl. For. 19(3):165–170.
Causal Reasoning Processes of People Affected by Wildfire: Implications for Agency-Community Interactions and Communication Strategies
Authors: Carroll Matthew S. , Kumagai Yoshitaka , Daniels Steven E. , Bliss John C. , Edwards John A.
Published: August 2019

Fire officials are dismayed when victims of wildfire blame fire fighters and others responsible for fire management for damage resulting from uncontrolled fires. This is in spite of the fact that wildfire damage is a consequence of dynamic interactions among natural factors (wind, temperature, location of wildfire, topography, etc.) and human factors (past land management, promptness of firefighting activities, extent of homeowners' defensible space, etc.). Fire and land managers do not typically understand why and how the victims arrive at such oversimplified, and in some cases inaccurate, conclusions about wildfire causation. Attribution theory in social psychology provides a framework for understanding the mechanisms of these blaming processes. In this study, both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used to explore how people who live in wildfire hazard zones and experienced wildfire, perceive the causes of wildfire damage. In the spring of 1999, a prefire survey was conducted in the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, an area where numerous wildfires are recorded nearly every year. This was followed by a postfire survey in two communities that actually experienced a fire that season. In addition, qualitative interviews were carried out in these two affected communities. Results suggest that people who experienced wildfire tended to attribute the cause of wildfire damage to factors associated with fire officials and nature and did not attribute fire damage to their own actions (or inactions). The implications of these attributions are discussed as are recommendations for future fire education and communication. West. J. Appl. For. 19(3):184–194.
Control of Black Oak and Tanoak in the Sierra Cascade Range
Authors: DiTomaso Joseph M. , Kyser Guy B. , Fredrickson Edward A.
Published: August 2019

Broadcast, directed, and stem injection herbicide techniques were applied to 3- to 8-year-old black oak (Quercus kelloggii) and 3-year-old tanoak (Lithocarpus densiflorus) clumps (directed applications only). Broadcast applications of imazapyr at all rates to black oak and directed applications of imazapyr to tanoak performed better with the addition of an adjuvant compared to treatments without the adjuvant. However, even with an adjuvant, broadcast treatments of imazapyr at or below 560 g acid equivalent (ae/ha) only suppressed black oak growth and did not provide long-term control. Directed applications of imazapyr gave excellent control of both black oak (0.43–2.17% ae plus Sylgard) and tanoak (0.14–1.13% ae plus Hasten) clumps. Imazapyr was more effective than basal bark treatments with triclopyr (8.9% ae), and tank-mixing imazapyr with glyphosate did not improve the level of control. Stem injection treatment of black oak trees or clumps with imazapyr was very effective with nearly all rates and hack intervals, but late summer or fall applications gave greater suppression of basal re-sprouts compared to spring and early summer treatments. These results demonstrate that imazapyr is a very effective and versatile tool for the control of black oak and tanoak clumps and black oak trees. West. J. Appl. For. 19(4):268–276.
Manual Cutting of Sitka Alder-Dominated Plant Communities: Effects on Conifer Growth and Plant Community Structure
Authors: Simard Suzanne W. , Heineman Jean L. , Hagerman Shannon M. , Mather W. Jean , Sachs Donald L.
Published: August 2019

Five-year growth and survival responses of lodgepole pine and hybrid spruce to manual cutting of Sitka alder were studied in two montane vegetation complexes in interior British Columbia. The effects of brushing on plant community diversity and structure also were examined. Alder cover and height were reduced throughout the 5-year posttreatment measurement period, but this had no effect on growth or survival of either 5- to 7-year-old lodgepole pine growing in the Dry Alder complex or 4- to 7-year-old hybrid spruce in the Wet Alder complex. Moderate alder cover, which was characteristic at these sites, did not appear to inhibit diameter growth of lodgepole pine or spruce. This was supported by competition thresholds for conifer diameter of 30 and 37% alder cover in the Dry Alder and Wet Alder complexes, respectively. In neither complex did manual cutting result in any changes in species richness, species diversity, or structural diversity of the vascular plant community. The results of this study suggest that brushing of Sitka alder is unnecessary for release of healthy lodgepole pine growing on mesic sites in the Dry Alder complex and is ineffective at alleviating growth limiting factors to spruce on Wet Alder sites. West. J. Appl. For. 19(4):277–287.
Estimating Singleleaf Pinyon and Utah Juniper Volumes for Several Utilization Standards1
Authors: Chojnacky David C.
Published: August 2019

Ratio equations were developed to estimate singleleaf pinyon (Pinus monophylla) and Utah juniper (Juniperus osteosperma) volume for several utilization standards. The equations constructed will estimate outside-bark volume between 1.5 and 6 in. minimum branch diameter and inside-bark volume between 1 and 5 in. Data for the equations were collected from 61 locations throughout the Great Basin. West. J. Appl. For. 2(2):51-55, April, 1987.
The Effect of Stream Cleaning on Salmonid Habitat and Populations in a Coastal Oregon Drainage
Authors: House Robert A. , Boehne Paul L.
Published: August 2019

Habitat conditions and use by anadromous salmonids were evaluated in five reaches of Upper Lobster Creek, a major stream system in the central Oregon Coast Range, to determine the effect of different levels of stream cleaning. Stream clearance associated with post-World War II logging practices and a 100-year flood event that occured in 1964 severely altered channel configurations and loading patterns of large woody debris. This caused the subsequent removal of log jams. An uncleaned reach had large amounts of woody debris and the highest density of pools, greatest percentage of off-channel habitat, and highest salmonid use. In contrast, a totally cleaned reach had the lowest density of pools and lowest salmonid use. Rehabilitated sections of a reach that had been partially cleaned showed increases in density of pools and salmonid use compared to the remainder of the partially cleaned reach. Retention of standing timber in the riparian zone and maintenance in instream accumulations of large woody debris is recommended to allow streams to reach their productive potential for anadromous salmonids. West. J. Appl. For. 2(3):84-87, July 1987.
Fuelwood Potential in Large-Tree Quercus gambelii Stands
Authors: Clary Warren P. , Tiedemann Arthur R.
Published: August 2019

Five high volume stands of large-tree Quercus gambelii Nutt. were sampled to assess fuelwood potential. Sampled stands of this clonal species had stem densities equivalent to 2400-4100 per hectare. Mean stem diameters varied from 15.1-24.6 cm. The average live stem had an oven-dry biomass of 82.5 kg and marketable fuelwood of 67.5 kg. Equivalent values for standing dead stems were 22.5 and 20.2 kg. Total tree biomass (live and dead standing stems) was 292.1 t (metric)/ha. Marketable fuelwood biomass was 245.1 t/ha. Retail fuelwood market values for these large-tree stands ranged from $11,144-$44,740/ha cut, split, and delivered to the customer. Stumpage price that could be charged by the landowner for standing trees varied from $1,175-$4,716 per hectare of stand. West. J. Appl. For. 2(3):87-90, July 1987.
An Economic Feasibility Analysis for Concessionaire Management of Campgrounds on the Siuslaw National Forest
Authors: Scott Rick , Gartner William C.
Published: August 2019

The USDA Forest Service has recently begun to encourage concessionaire operation of public campgrounds that it administers. This is a relatively new type of special use permit arrangement for the Forest Service. This paper analyzes 19 fee campgrounds on the Siuslaw National Forest for potential concessionaire operation, Analysis against developed criteria identified only one campground suitable for successful concessionaire operation. The analysis also revealed that if that campground was operated under a special use permit, total dollar returns to the U.S. Treasury would be substantially reduced. However, this loss could be offset by savings in campground operation costs, and developed recreation would benefit if those dollars were reinvested in other programs on the forest. West. J. Appl. For. 2:91-94, July 1987.
Harvesting Factors Affecting Financial Feasibility of Thinning in Southwestern Idaho
Authors: Giles Robert S. , Sessions John
Published: August 2019

The financial feasibility of thinning in southwestern Idaho is not well established. A logging cost model, LOG-COST, was developed to estimate harvesting costs for seven major tree species. The financial feasibility of thinning depends heavily on species, tree size, skidding or yarding method, topography, and truck transport distance. In order to provide financially feasible thinnings, biologically similar stands may have to be managed quite differently if truck transport distance or terrain vary significantly. West. J. Appl. For. 2(4):105-110, October 1987.
Road Location and Construction Practices: Effects on Landslide Frequency and Size in the Oregon Coast Range
Authors: Sessions John , Balcom John C. , Boston Kevin
Published: August 2019

The effects of road location and construction practices on landslide frequency and size were studied in a 300,000-ac area of the Oregon Coast Range. Roads were divided into two groups. Roads in Group I had been built using a combination of steep road grades and full-bench, endhaul construction to minimize slide risk. Group II roads were built using location and construction practices typical of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Using steep road grades to maintain ridgetop locations and full-bench end-haul construction did reduce landslide frequency and size on Group I, as compared to Group II, roads. The marginal cost of reducing slide volumes/road-mile from the volumes found on Group II roads to the volumes found on Group I roads was six times greater in more plastic than in less plastic soils when roads crossed slopes of equal steepness. When roads crossed slopes with a sideslope steeper than 50%, the estimated cost of reducing the volume/road-mile of slide from Group II to Group I levels ranged from $81/yd³ ($154/ac) to over $12,000/yd³ ($3675/ac), depending on landtype, sideslope, and endhaul distance. West. J. Appl. For. 2(4):119-124, October 1987.
Sowing Sized Seed of Western White Pine in a Containerized Nursery
Authors: Dumroese R. Kasten , Wenny David L.
Published: August 2019

Sorting seed by size has been reported as a potential method to improve seedling uniformity and increase crop yields. Seeds of rust-resistant western white pine (Pinus monticola Dougl. ex D. Don), harvested in 1983 at the Moscow, Idaho, White Pine Breeding Arboretum, were separated by screens into diameter classes. Seedlings from each size class were grown in containers in greenhouses. Differences in seed diameter were associated with differences in germination capacity and germination energy (P < 0. 01). Seed diameter was unrelated to final height and stem diameter of seedlings (p < 0.05). Separate sowing of sized seed could not be justified for production containerized nurseries as similar numbers of quality seedlings were produced by sowing bulk seed. West. J. Appl. For. 2(4):128-130, October 1987.
Distribution of Bark Beetle Attacks After Whitebark Pine Restoration Treatments: A Case Study
Authors: Waring Kristen M. , Six Diana L.
Published: August 2019

Whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis Engelm.), an important component of high elevation ecosystems in the western United States and Canada, is declining due to fire exclusion, white pine blister rust (Cronartium ribicola J.C. Fisch.), and mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins). This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of whitebark pine restoration treatments on the distribution of bark beetle attacks. At a site in Idaho, silvicultural treatments were implemented in summer 1998 and 1999, with prescribed burning implemented in Oct. 1999. Permanent plots (400m2) were established during summer 1999 within each treatment and monitored for 4 years. Within plots, tree characteristics were measured and a bark beetle survey was conducted. Bark beetle attacks remained low throughout the study; however, there was an increase in bark beetle attacks in 2000 after the prescribed burning. By years 3 and 4, there were virtually no successful attacks. Although bark beetles were not a serious concern at the site assessed in this study, our results indicate that managers should consider and monitor the bark beetle component of these ecosystems when implementing restoration treatments. If baseline bark beetle populations are high at the time of implementation, our results indicate that increases in beetle activity would be expected in some treatments, perhaps requiring mitigation. West. J. Appl. For. 20(2):110–116.
Predicting Potential Natural Vegetation in an Interior Northwest Landscape Using Classification Tree Modeling and a GIS
Authors: Kelly Alison , Powell David C. , Riggs Robert A.
Published: August 2019

Integration of a GIS with statistical predictive models facilitates mapping the likely spatial distribution of plant associations and modification of maps as new data or vegetation-environment relationships are discovered. In this study, data for classified plant communities were used to develop a georeferenced database representing 39 plant associations and environmental variables at 1,249 plot locations. This database was used to develop models predicting the occurrence of plant associations. These predictive models were implemented in a GIS to render maps of predictable plant associations, plant association groups, and overstory series. Overall model accuracy ranged from 30% for the model predicting plant association to 63% for the model predicting series. However, several associations, groups, and even series could not be predicted, and model performance for those that were predictable often differed from overall model accuracy. Association-level accuracy of model predictions ranged from 18 to 84% while series-level accuracy ranged from 41 to 85%. Model selection for management applications should be based on specific management objectives. Expansion of the regional sample of reference plots and database augmentations, including documentation of disturbance histories, should provide useful enhancements for future modeling efforts. West. J. Appl. For. 20(2):117–127.
A Comparison of Herbicide and Mulch Mat Treatments for Reducing Grass, Herb, and Shrub Competition in the BC Interior Douglas-Fir Zone—Ten-Year Results
Authors: Harper G. J. , Comeau P. G. , Biring B. S.
Published: August 2019

We present results from a study established in 1993 in the Interior Douglas-fir biogeoclimatic zone of southwestern British Columbia to test the effectiveness of several herbicide and mulch mat treatments for reducing grass, herbaceous, and shrub competition. The effectiveness of the preplant herbicide applications of hexazinone (Velpar L) at 2.1 kg ai/ha, glyphosate (Vision) at 2.1 and 1.0 kg ai/ha, and the installation of plastic mulch mats (Tredegar 90 × 90-cm mats) for controlling competing vegetation, improving seedling growth and survival of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) seedlings and improving soil moisture availability was evaluated. Ten-year results indicate that application of hexazinone and glyphosate enhanced the survival, diameter, and height growth of planted Douglas-fir seedlings. These herbicide treatments provided effective control of grass and herbaceous vegetation for three to four growing seasons. Plastic mulch mats did result in improvements in growth and survival, but these were not statistically different from untreated seedlings. The results of soil moisture monitoring from within the various treatments indicated delay in the onset of soil drought as a key determinant of the seedling growth improvement noted. West. J. Appl. For. 20(3):167–176.
Evaluating the Salvage Value of Fire-Killed Timber by Helicopter—Effects of Yarding Distance and Time Since Fire
Authors: Akay Abdullah E. , Sessions John , Bettinger Pete , Toupin Rick , Eklund Aaron
Published: August 2019

Recently, large areas of federal lands in the western United States have been subject to wildfire. Concerns about hastening restoration, soil disturbance, and road building have prompted consideration of helicopter logging. Normal planning procedures on federal lands are not sensitive to the rapid decline in the recoverable economic value of fire-killed timber. The economic value of fire-killed timber is dependent on logging costs and time since tree death. A model is developed to calculate value of fire-killed timber as a function of time since death and yarding distance using helicopters as the preferred logging method. Applications of the method to tactical planning are discussed.
Volume Growth Trends in a Douglas-Fir Levels-of-Growing-Stock Study
Authors: Curtis Robert O.
Published: August 2019

Mean curves of increment and yield in gross total cubic volume and net merchantable cubic volume were derived from seven installations of the regional cooperative Levels-of-Growing-Stock Study (LOGS) in Douglas-fir. The technique used reduces the seven curves for each treatment for each variable of interest to a single set of readily interpretable mean curves. To a top height of 100 ft and corresponding average age of 45 years, volume growth and yield are strongly related to stocking level, being highest at the highest stocking levels. At that point, current annual increment is still far greater than mean annual increment. Thinning has accelerated diameter growth of the largest 40 trees per acre as well as of the stand average. Maximum volume production would be obtained at stand relative densities approaching the zone of competition-related mortality, although in practice considerations of feasibility of frequent entries and wildlife and amenity considerations would make somewhat lower average levels necessary.
A Case Study of Digital Elevation Model-Based Slope Stability Assessment on Managed Forestland in the Oregon Coast Range
Authors: Pyles Marvin R. , Kramer Mari
Published: August 2019

An aerial photo-based inventory of landslides on recently harvested and reforested land after a significant landslide-producing storm in February 1996, was compared with a digital elevation model-based assessment of slope stability (shallow landsliding stability model [SHALSTAB]) for Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians (CTSI) and surrounding forestland. The SHALSTAB predictions of landslide locations did not correlate well with the locations of observed landslides. Eighty-nine percent of the landslides on the more stable landform in the southern portion of the CTSI ownership occurred on land that SHALSTAB indicated to be at a low risk of landsliding. Seventy-two percent of the landslides on the less stable landform to the north occurred on land that SHALSTAB indicated to be at a low risk of landsliding. Conversely, only 11 and 28%, respectively, of the observed landslides occurred on lands predicted to be “chronically unstable” or at “high risk” by SHALSTAB. This level of correct prediction of landsliding was judged to be unacceptable for SHALSTAB to be used for slope stability assessment as a part of forest management planning. West. J. Appl. For. 21(4):195–202.
Optimal Policies for Managing Aggregate Resources on Temporary Forest Roads
Authors: Sessions John , Boston Kevin , Thoreson Rick , Mills Keith
Published: August 2019

High-quality, durable rock aggregate suitable for road surfacing, with low sediment–producing characteristics, is a scarce resource in many forested areas of the United States and elsewhere. Rock aggregate is a heavy product that generally must be transported less than 50 miles to be economically useful. In the Coast Ranges of western Oregon and Washington, aggregate for road surfacing can amount to more than 60% of the cost of road construction. Durable aggregate is becoming scarcer, with few known quarry sources. So, over the last two decades, some aggregate surfacing on temporary roads has been recycled by both the USDA Forest Service and the Oregon Department of Forestry. We discuss the process of recycling road aggregate, drawing from the experience on the Astoria District of the Oregon Department of Forestry, and then propose a mathematical formulation to determine optimal policies for managing aggregate resources on temporary forest roads. West. J. Appl. For. 21(4):207–216.
Projections of Forestland and Developed Land Areas in Western Washington
Authors: Alig Ralph , White Eric
Published: August 2019

Between 1990 and 2000, nonfederal timberland areas in western Washington declined by 5%, in contrast to a 3% reduction for the 1980–90 period. Most of this reduction is attributed to the conversion of timberland to other land uses, especially urban and other developed uses. In areas such as the Puget Sound region, population densities have more than doubled over the last 40 years. Further expansion in urban and developed areas is expected, with timberland a major source for development. We project an 8% reduction over 30 years in forestland area in western Washington. At the same time, urban and other developed areas are projected to roughly double, driven by increases in population and personal income levels. Increased demand for land for residential and other developed uses puts upward pressure on land values, increasing opportunity cost of retaining land in forests and raising the question of what will become of some forests and associated forest resources, such as water and wildlife, if forest owners find it too costly to manage the forest.
Economic Costs of Different Riparian Management Regulations in the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Zobrist Kevin W. , Lippke Bruce R.
Published: August 2019

Riparian management is an important consideration for sustainable wood production in the Pacific Northwest. Western Washington and Oregon have similar riparian management issues but different regulatory prescriptions. Application of these prescriptions to a sample of 10 small private ownerships illustrate some of the economic differences of each state's approach. Economic costs tend to be higher in Washington but can be significant in both states. Lower cost strategies through alternate plans may be important for protecting riparian habitat while ensuring the long-term economic viability of forestry in the region.
Comparing Tree and Stand Volume Growth Response to Low and Crown Thinning in Young Natural Douglas-fir Stands
Authors: Emmingham Wm , Fletcher Rick , Fitzgerald Stephen , Bennett Max
Published: August 2019

We consider tree and stand response to low, crown, and no thinningof well-differentiated, naturally regenerated even-aged Douglas-firstands over 15 years on a moderately productive Cascade Mountains siteand over 10 years on a highly productive Oregon Coast Range site.Regardless of treatment, trees in dominant and codominant crown classescontinued growing at preinitiation rates and contributed 92–100% ofstand growth 5–15 years later. Most leave trees in suppressed crownclasses died during the first 10 years and suppressed and intermediatecrown classes contributed little to stand growth because survivorscontinued to grow slowly. Low thinning remains the most reliablethinning method for increasing stand volume in high-quality trees.Crown or selection thinning may be used to achieve certain objectivesif managers carefully use information about response of trees invarious crown classes. Growth rates of residual stands will depend onthe amount of residual growing stock and the degree to which it iscomprised of vigorously growing dominant and codominant trees.Residual subordinate trees may provide snags but few living trees insmall-diameter classes. Implications for management of the Douglas-firare discussed.
Simulating the Effects of Forest Management on Large Woody Debris in Streams in Northern Idaho
Authors: Teply Mark , McGreer Dale , Schult Dennis , Seymour Patrick
Published: August 2019

Existing models for simulating large woody debris (LWD) loads of forest streams were adapted for forest conditions in northern Idaho. Effects of riparian management prescriptions implemented for streams within a habitat conservation planning area for bull trout and other sensitive species were evaluated based on riparian and instream LWD conditions observed along 58 randomly selected stream segments. A wood budgeting system presented by Welty et al. (2002. Riparian aquatic interaction simulator (RAIS): A model of riparian forest dynamics for the generation of large woody debris and shade. For. Ecol. Manage. 162:299–318) was employed through use of observed starting instream LWD loads and generalized depletion rates. LWD recruitment estimates were based on locally relevant growth and yield simulators, taper equations, and adjustments for tree fall directional bias. LWD loading, expressed as the number of qualifying pieces per 1,000 ft of stream, was examined under two scenarios: a no-harvest scenario and a harvest scenario. Results indicated no significant difference in the frequency distribution of simulated LWD loading between the no-harvest and harvest scenarios over a 100-year prediction period. Examination of our assumptions indicated that LWD loading was likely underestimated and less variable than would be expected. However, these assumptions had equal effects on each scenario, enabling us to confidently interpret the effects of timber harvest. The nature and extent of riparian forest harvesting evaluated in this simulation is similar to levels being considered elsewhere in the region. Therefore, simulation techniques demonstrated here could be applied elsewhere in the region for evaluating the potential effects of riparian management on fisheries resources.
Regional Height–Diameter Equations for Major Tree Species of Southwest Oregon
Authors: Temesgen Hailemariam , Hann David W. , Monleon Vincente J.
Published: August 2019

Selected tree height and diameter functions were evaluated for their predictive abilities for major tree species of southwest Oregon. Two sets of equations were evaluated. The first set included four base equations for estimating height as a function of individual tree diameter, and the remaining 16 equations enhanced the four base equations with alternative measures of stand density and relative position. The inclusion of the crown competition factor in larger trees (CCFL) and basal area (BA), which simultaneously indicates the relative position of a tree and stand density, into the base height–diameter equations increased the accuracy of prediction for all species. On the average, root mean square error values were reduced by 45 cm (15% improvement). On the basis of the residual plots and fit statistics, two equations are recommended for estimating tree heights for major tree species in southwest Oregon. The equation coefficients are documented for future use.
Technical Note: Development of a Landsat Time Series for Application in Forest Status Assessment in the Inland Northwest United States
Authors: Beck Russell N. , Gessler Paul E.
Published: August 2019

The Inland Northwest United States contains extensive areas of complex, inaccessible terrain requiring significant resource expenditure for forest inventory, assessment, and monitoring. Cost-effective methods are necessary for annual broad-scale assessment of forest condition over complex terrain. Proficiency in the use of timely satellite image products along with spatial analysis tools such as geographic information systems can assist natural resource managers to understand regional dynamics and change within these landscapes. Satellite-derived vegetation indices such as the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) can effectively assess and monitor vegetation dynamics of large remote areas. This article presents a newly developed archive and example methods for monitoring forest dynamics through the creation of NDVI departure maps. The NDVI products were generated from a time series of Landsat imagery (1989–2004) to derive both density distributions and a long-term departure from average map for any year or series of years within the time series archive. A preliminary application of the data is demonstrated showing temporal trends of vegetation dynamics relating to harvesting and management within two small pilot study areas in north Idaho.
Developing Fire Behavior Fuel Models for the Wildland–Urban Interface in Anchorage, Alaska
Authors: Cheyette Daniel , Rupp T. Scott , Rodman Sue
Published: August 2019

Fire behavior modeling systems are playing an increasingly important role in identifying areas of the wildland–urban interface (WUI) that could support intense and fast-moving wildfires. The modeling systems also can be used to prioritize areas for fuels reduction treatments. We used forest inventory data to create custom fire behavior fuel models for the Anchorage, Alaska, WUI—an area strongly impacted by a recent spruce bark beetle (Dendroctonus rufipennis) infestation. Eight custom fuel models were developed including a custom fuel model for a spruce bark beetle impacted forest type. NEXUS simulations indicate that the custom fuel models better describe forest structure and predict fire behavior than do parameterized standard fuel models previously used by local fire managers. Rate of spread and fireline ranged from 1–321 chains/hour and 1–2,549 Btu/ft per second, respectively, for the custom fuel models compared with 1–70 chains/hour and 1–7,929 Btu/ft per second, respectively, for the parameterized standard fuel models. Our study shows that it is both possible and feasible to create custom fuel models directly from fuels inventory data. This achievement has broad implications for land managers, particularly managers of the boreal forest, a region that is susceptible to wildfires but also home to a growing human population and increasing amounts of development.
Effects of Growing Space on Growth for 20-Year-Old Giant Sequoia, Ponderosa Pine, and Douglas-Fir in the Sierra Nevada
Authors: Peracca Galen G. , O'Hara Kevin L.
Published: August 2019

Relationships between growing space per tree and tree growth components (dbh, height, percentage of live crown, height-diameter ratio, tree volume, and tree biomass) were studied in three single-species, 20-year-old Nelder plots in the Sierra Nevada. Study species included ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa [P.&C. Lawson]), coast Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii [Mirb.] Franco) and giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum [Lindl.] Buchh.). Spacing distance between trees varied from 1.77 to 17.78 ft, and growing space per tree varied from 4.1 to 411.0 ft2 (computed using Thiessen polygons). Relationships between growing space and tree height, tree diameter, and percentage of live crown were all significant and showed increasing trends as growing space per tree increased. Height:diameter ratios were high at close spacing and decreased with increasing growing space. Volume growth and biomass per tree increased, whereas stand volume and stand biomass decreased with increased growing space. Ponderosa pine produced the most stand volume and biomass of the three species.
The Effects of Initial Spacing and Rectangularity on the Early Growth of Hybrid Poplar
Authors: Johnstone Wayne D.
Published: August 2019

Hybrid poplar (Populus trichocarpa Torr. and Gray × Populus deltoides Marsh.) plantations, at two locations in southern British Columbia, were examined 9 years after planting, to determine the effects of plantation spacing on individual-tree and per-hectare growth and development. At both locations, spacing had a direct, significant effect on virtually all of the individual-tree characteristics examined. For a given amount of growing space per tree, rectangularity (within-row/between-row spacing ratios) had no significant effect on individual-tree diameter, height, or total bole volume. Virtually all of the per-hectare characteristics examined were not significantly affected by spacing at either location.
Distribution of Fine Roots of Ponderosa Pine and Douglas-Fir in a Central Idaho Forest
Authors: Dumm Gabriel , Fins Lauren , Graham Russell T. , Jain Theresa B.
Published: August 2019

This study describes soil horizon depth and fine root distribution in cores collected at two distances from the boles of Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine trees at a study site in a central Idaho forest. Concentration and content of fine roots extracted from soil cores were compared among species, soil horizons, tree size, and distance from bole. Approximately 80% of litter and humus samples contained no fine roots. The highest fine root content and concentrations of fine roots occurred in deep mineral soil for both species (1.24 g and 2.82 g/l for Douglas-fir and 0.98g and 2.24 g/l for ponderosa pine, respectively). No statistically significant differences were found in fine root content or concentration between species in any of the four soil horizons. Tree size was not a significant factor in fine root distribution in this study. Significant variables were horizon, distance from bole, and interactions among tree size, location of sample, and soil horizon. This study, which was part of a larger US Forest Service study to develop a predictive model of postfire tree mortality, provides baseline information that may be useful in predicting postfire damage to fine roots.
Increasing Value and Reducing Costs through Hauling Longer Logs: Opportunities and Issues
Authors: Sessions John , Wimer Jeff , Boston Kevin
Published: August 2019

The majority of log volume in the western United States is transported as long logs on stinger-steered pole trailers. Opportunities exist to increase value and reduce costs through hauling longer logs. Hauling longer logs often permits increasing gross vehicle weight, reducing the cost of transport and using less fuel per unit of log volume transported. Longer logs also increase the potential to recover value by retaining more bucking options at the mill. On higher-speed routes, hauling longer logs will decrease fuel consumption if vehicle air resistance is reduced. A number of issues associated with hauling longer logs must be considered, including truck performance on horizontal and vertical curves, gradeability, loading and unloading trucks, mill yard layout, method of log measurement, and bridge limits.
Biomass and Stand Characteristics of a Highly Productive Mixed Douglas-Fir and Western Hemlock Plantation in Coastal Washington
Authors: Harrison Robert B. , Terry Thomas A. , Licata Christopher W. , Flaming Barry L. , Meade Rod , Guerrini Irae A. , Strahm Brian D. , Xue Dongsen , Lolley M. Reese , Sidell Amy R. , Wagoner Gage L. , Briggs David , Turnblom Eric C.
Published: August 2019

Aboveground biomass predictive equations were developed for a highly productive 47-year-old mixed Douglas-fir and western hemlock stand in southwest Washington State to characterize the preharvest stand attributes for the Fall River Long-Term Site Productivity Study. The equations were developed using detailed biomass data taken from 31 Douglas-fir and 11 western hemlock trees within the original stand. The stand had an average of 615 live trees per hectare, with an average dbh of 35.6 cm (39.1 cm for Douglas-fir and 33.3 cm for western hemlock) and an average total tree height of 31.6 m (32.8 m for Douglas-fir and 30.2 m for western hemlock). Equations developed were of the form ln Y = b1 + b2 ln dbh, where Y = biomass in kg, dbh = diameter in cm at 1.3 m height, b1 = intercept, and b2 = slope of equation. Each tree part was estimated separately and also combined into total aboveground biomass. The total aboveground biomass estimation equations were ln Y = −0.9950 + 2.0765 ln dbh for Douglas-fir, and ln Y = −1.6612 + 2.2321 ln dbh for western hemlock. The estimate of the aboveground live-tree biomass was of 395 Mg ha−1 (235 Mg ha−1 for Douglas-fir and 160 Mg ha−1 for western hemlock), with 9.5, 29.3, 12.9, 308, and 32.7 Mg ha−1 in the foliage, live branches, dead branches, stem wood, and stem bark, respectively. When compared with biomass estimates from six other studies, ranging in age from 22 to 110 years and from 96.3 to 636 Mg ha−1, the biomass of the Fall River site was relatively high for its age, indicating very high productivity.
Wood Changes in Four Size Classes of Fire-Killed Western Larch
Authors: Jackson Marcus B. , Bulaon Beverly M. , Marsden Michael A.
Published: August 2019

Four size classes (8–12, 12.1–16, 16.1–20, and 20.1+ in. dbh) of fire-killed western larch (Larix occidentalis) were monitored and dissected over a 5-year period to assess causes and rates ofpostfire wood changes. Defect and merchantable volume were assessed by a certified scaler during the first 3 years. A greater proportion of wood volume in small trees was affected by decay, wood borers, and checks than in the large trees. Half of the 8‐12 in. dbh size class wood volumewas lost to postfire defects, whereas less than 15% of the 20.1+ in. dbh size class wood volume was lost to postfire defects after 3 years.
Relating Forest Attributes with Area- and Tree-Based Light Detection and Ranging Metrics for Western Oregon
Authors: Goerndt Michael E. , Monleon Vincente J. , Temesgen Hailemariam
Published: August 2019

Three sets of linear models were developed to predict several forest attributes, using stand-level and single-tree remote sensing (STRS) light detection and ranging (LiDAR) metrics as predictor variables. The first used only area-level metrics (ALM) associated with first-return height distribution, percentage of cover, and canopy transparency. The second alternative included metrics of first-return LiDAR intensity. The third alternative used area-level variables derived from STRS LiDAR metrics. The ALM model for Lorey's height did not change with inclusion of intensity and yielded the best results in terms of both model fit (adjusted R2 = 0.93) and cross-validated relative root mean squared error (RRMSE = 8.1%). The ALM model for density (stems per hectare) had the poorest precision initially (RRMSE = 39.3%), but it improved dramatically (RRMSE = 27.2%) when intensity metrics were included. The resulting RRMSE values of the ALM models excluding intensity for basal area, quadratic mean diameter, cubic stem volume, and average crown width were 20.7, 19.9, 30.7, and 17.1%, respectively. The STRS model for Lorey's height showed a 3% improvement in RRMSE over the ALM models. The STRS basal area and density models significantly underperformed compared with the ALM models, with RRMSE values of 31.6 and 47.2%, respectively. The performance of STRS models for crown width, volume, and quadratic mean diameter was comparable to that of the ALM models.
Allometric Equation Development, Biomass, and Aboveground Productivity in Ponderosa Pine Forests, Black Hills, Wyoming
Authors: Tinker Daniel , Stakes Gail K. , Arcano Richard M.
Published: August 2019

Temperate forest ecosystems continue to play an important role in the global carbon cycle, and the ability to accurately quantify carbon storage and allocation remains a critical tool for managers and researchers. This study was aimed at developing new allometric equations for predicting above- and belowground biomass of both mature trees and saplings of ponderosa pine trees in the Black Hills region of the western United States and at evaluating thinning effects on biomass pools and aboveground productivity. Study sites included three stands that had been commercially thinned and one unmanaged stand. Nine allometric equations were developed for mature trees, and six equations were developed for saplings; all models exhibited strong predictive power. The unmanaged stand contained more than twice as much total aboveground biomass as any of the thinned stands. Aboveground biomass allocation among tree compartments was similar among the three older stands but quite different from the young, even-aged stand. Stand-level aboveground net primary production was higher in the unmanaged and intensively managed stands, yet tree-level annual productivity was much lower in the unmanaged stands than in any of the managed forests, suggesting that thinning of some forest stands may increase their ability to sequester and store carbon. Our data also suggest that different management approaches did not have the same effect on carbon allocation as they did on total carbon storage capacity, but rather, stand age was the most important factor in predicting carbon allocation within individual trees and stands. Identification of the relationships between stand structure and forest management practices may help identify various management strategies that maximize rates of carbon storage in ponderosa pine forests.
Armillaria Root Disease-Caused Tree Mortality following Silvicultural Treatments (Shelterwood or Group Selection) in an Oregon Mixed-Conifer Forest: Insights from a 10-Year Case Study
Authors: Filip Gregory M. , Maffei Helen M. , Chadwick Kristen L. , Max Timothy A.
Published: August 2019

In 2005, the 10-year effects of two silvicultural treatments (group-selection and shelterwood) on tree-growth loss and mortality caused by Armillaria ostoyae were compared with no treatment in a mixed-conifer forest in south-central Oregon. Ten years after treatment, Armillaria-caused mortality varied by species and was greatest in Shasta red fir (38% of trees per acre) and white fir (31%) and much less in Douglas-fir (3%) and ponderosa pine (0%). Ten years after harvesting, leave-tree mortality caused by Armillaria root disease was not significantly different in treated than in the unharvested units, nor was there significant diameter-growth response to the harvesting even in large ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir. The silvicultural treatments did have some benefits: (1) leave-tree mortality appeared, at least, not to be exacerbated by harvesting; (2) more disease-resistant pine, cedar, and larch seedlings and saplings survived in the shelterwood-harvest stands and group-selection openings than in comparable areas that were not harvested; and (3) living wood fiber was recovered from the treated stands, as well as dying and dead fuels that could exacerbate wildfire losses. Insights into host-pathogen interactions and recommendations for silvicultural options are presented. This is a case study from a single site and should be interpreted as such.