bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Forest Fire Probabilities in the South Central United States Using FIA Data
Authors: Munn Ian A. , Zhai Yushun , Evans David L.
Published: August 2019

Factors influencing the probability of fire occurrence in the south central United States were investigated using a geographic information system (GIS) and a multinomial logit model. Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) data at the plot level were merged with census data at the census-tract level to create a data set containing demographic, geographic, and timber-related characteristics. A multinomial logit model was employed to estimate the relationships between plot characteristics and the probability of wildfires, prescribed fires, and fires of unknown origins. Wildfires occurred more frequently on public forests than industrial and nonindustrial private forests (NIPFs). The probability of wildfire increased with proximity to urban areas and “built-up” areas of 4 ha or more in size. Wildfires occurred more frequently in younger stands and in pine and mixed pine-hardwood types than in hardwood types. Prescribed fires occurred more frequently on public and industrial forests than on NIPFs. The probability of prescribed fires increased with proximity to roads, urban areas, built-up areas of 4 ha or more, and on flatter terrain, but was inversely related to population density. Fire was prescribed less frequently for pole-sized stands than sawtimber size stands and more frequently for pine and mixed pine-hardwood types than for hardwood types. Education levels and median household incomes of the surrounding census tract had no significant effects on the probability of any type of fire. South. J. Appl. For. 27(1):11–17.
Role of the Tennessee Master Logger Program in Implementation of Best Management Practices on Non-Industrial Private Forests
Authors: Davis Chad T. , Clatterbuck Wayne K.
Published: August 2019

A field evaluation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) was used to determine the effectiveness of the Tennessee Master Logger Program (TMLP) in 1997–1998. The study was conducted on non-industrial private forestland (NIPF) and excluded harvests on land owned by forest industry or public forests. Completed logging jobs were evaluated in relation to four components of timber harvesting: (1) haul roads, (2) skid trails, (3) log decks, and (4) Streamside Management Zones (SMZs). The scores assigned during evaluation to each of the four components were added together to yield an overall score. An overall percentage score was calculated because some sites did not have all four components, for example, SMZs are not necessary on sites without streams. Of 191 randomly chosen logging sites across the state of Tennessee, 38, or 19.9%, were harvested by trained Master Loggers. A significant association (P < 0.05) was found between overall percentage score and logger training. The mean overall percentage score for Master Loggers was 75.1%, and the mean score for untrained loggers was 60.4%. Only 17 of the 627 possible scores or 2.6%, exhibited threats to water quality. Of these 17, Master Loggers were only responsible for 3. Point biserial correlations indicated that a substantial association (P < 0.05) existed between harvests completed by Master Loggers and the scores of haul roads, skid trails, log decks, and SMZ grades. This study indicates that loggers who received training from the TMLP were more likely to implement BMPs during harvesting operations on NIPF than loggers who did not participate in the Tennessee Master Logger Program. South. J. Appl. For. 27(1):36–40.
Salicylic Acid Increases the Biomass Accumulation of Pinus patula
Authors: San-Miguel Rubén , Gutiérrez Mario , Larqué-Saavedra Alfonso
Published: August 2019

Aqueous solutions of low concentrations of salicylic acid (SA), applied as a spray to the shoots of 3-month-oldPinus patula Schiede ex Schltdl. & Cham seedlings, significantly increased the biomass of the plants. The measurements were taken after nine monthly treatments. Stem diameter and height of the plants were increased by 10-10 and 10-8 M SA. Similarly, applications of 10-8 and 10-6 M SA increased fresh stem weight by 33 and 30%, respectively, and the dry stem weight by 65 and 44%. Increases of 28–30% in gross root length were detected in applications of 10-8 and 10-6 M SA, which were reinforced by increases of 33% in fresh root weight, and of 45 to 54% in dry root weight. South. J. Appl. For. 27(1):52–54.
Cost of Six Different Stream Crossing Options in the Appalachian Area
Authors: Visser Rien , Aust W. Michael , Gallagher Tom , Roberts Tal , Poirot Matt
Published: August 2019

Permanent and temporary forest bridges are an integral part of achieving environmental Best Management Practices (BMPs) for harvesting operations. Within Virginia Tech's Fishburn Forest, five stream crossings have been installed to improve access and to provide a demonstration area for continuing education purposes. Approximately 1 mile of abandoned road was re-opened and improved, and 850 tons of gravel used to form the new running surface. In addition to a number of existing fords, three new culvert crossings and five new bridges were installed. These include a 70 ft low-water concrete culvert crossing, a two-span 31 ft wooden stringer bridge, and three different types of stress-laminated bridges. This article provides basic information regarding permit acquisition and environmental considerations for stream crossings. Location, design, and installation procedures for a variety of permanent and temporary forest bridges are presented. Finally, an evaluation of bridge installation costs, including materials, labor, and machinery requirements, are shown for the various permanent and temporary crossing types. South. J. Appl. For. 27(1):66–70.
Summer Dissolved Oxygen Concentrations in Forested Streams of Northern Louisiana
Authors: Ice George , Sugden Brian
Published: August 2019

Dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations are critical to aquatic communities and are an important measure of water quality conditions in streams. Best Management Practices that maintain shade near streams and avoid introduction of slash should minimize forest management effects on DO concentrations. However, many streams in the South Central Plains Ecoregion of Louisiana have summer DO concentrations below the 5 mg/L criterion recommended by EPA. Based on a synoptic survey of 43 least-impaired and reference forest stream reaches, we found that over 80% of these reaches had DO concentrations below 5 mg/L, and almost 60% of monitored sites had DO concentrations below 3 mg/L. These low DO concentrations are associated with low streamflow velocities and organic channel bottoms. Unachievable DO standards in the region need to be addressed to realistically reflect local environmental conditions. South. J. Appl. For. 27(2):92–99.
Development of Hardwood Seed Zones for Tennessee Using a Geographic Information System
Authors: Schlarbaum S.E. , Post Lisa S. , van Manen Frank , Cecich R.A. , Saxton A.M. , Schneider J.F.
Published: August 2019

For species that have no or limited information on genetic variation and adaptability to nonnative sites, there is a need for seed collection guidelines based on biological, climatological, and/or geographical criteria. Twenty-eight hardwood species are currently grown for reforestation purposes at the East Tennessee State Nursery. The majority of these species have had no genetic testing to define guidelines for seed collection location and can be distributed to sites that have a very different environment than that of seed origin(s). Poor survival and/or growth may result if seedlings are not adapted to environmental conditions at the planting location. To address this problem, 30 yr of Tennessee county precipitation and minimum temperature data were analyzed and grouped using a centroid hierarchical cluster analysis. The weather data and elevational data were entered into a Geographic Information System (GIS) and separately layered over Bailey's Ecoregions to develop a seed zone system for Tennessee. The seed zones can be used as a practical guideline for collecting seeds to ensure that the resulting seedlings will be adapted to planting environments. South. J. Appl. For. 27(3):172–175.
Broadcast Applications of Glyphosate Control Nutsedge at a South Georgia Forest Tree Nursery
Authors: Fraedrich Stephen W. , Dwinell L. David , Cram Michelle M.
Published: August 2019

Nutsedge is a major weed problem in some southern forest tree nurseries. Although herbicides can control most weeds in nurseries, control of nutsedge is usually dependent on fumigation. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of broadcast applications of glyphosate for control of nutsedge. Single and multiple applications of glyphosate at 2.2 kg ai/ha greatly reduced the density of nutsedge shoots and viable tubers at a south Georgia forest tree nursery. The first application in June 1999 reduced nutsedge shoots by approximately 98%. Subsequent applications during September and October 1999 had no additional detectable effect. Although applications in August and September 2000 greatly reduced the amount of nutsedge in previously untreated areas, their effect did not appear to be as great as glyphosate applications during the first year. Rainfall before and after glyphosate applications, and plant age at the time of application may have influenced the level of nutsedge control in year two. Nutsedge shoots and viable tubers were reduced to near zero levels in plots treated over a 2 yr period. The use of broadcast applications of glyphosate may be of value in developing a more cost-effective management program for nutsedge control in southern forest tree nurseries. South. J. Appl. For. 27(3):176–179.
Economic Analysis of Pruning and Low-Density Management Compared to Traditional Management of Loblolly Pine Plantations in East Texas
Authors: Kronrad Gary D. , Huang Ching-Hsun
Published: August 2019

Economic analyses were conducted to compare traditional loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) timber management to low-density management combined with pruning in East Texas. Soil expectation values were used to determine the financially optimal thinning and final harvesting schedules (including rotation length, and the timing, frequency and intensity of thinning). Two stumpage price assumptions were made: market price and premium price for pruned, clear sawlogs. Five site indices (50 to 90) and six real alternative rates of return (ARR) (2.5 to 15.0%) were employed. Results indicate that if the market price of sawtimber is $450/mbf, traditional management is more profitable for most landowners. However, if a premium price of $550/mbf is paid for pruned logs, low-density management is more profitable for most landowners. For low-density management, a $100/mbf price increase for sawtimber does not affect the optimal thinning and harvesting schedules in any recognizable pattern. South. J. Appl. For. 28(1):12–20.
Willingness to Pay for Hunting Leases in Alabama
Authors: Zhang Daowei , Hussain Anwar , Armstrong James B.
Published: August 2019

This study used a censored probit approach to estimate willingness to pay (WTP) for hunting leases in Alabama. Data were generated through a dichotomous choice contingent valuation (DCCV) survey conducted in spring 2002. After correcting for sample selection bias, we found that hunting experience, hunter's household income, number of dependents, and lack of game quality had significant impact on WTP, with lack of game quality having the largest marginal effect. The estimated WTP was $1.29/ac per hunter or $23/ac per hunting club, more than double the actual average payment of $0.52/ac per hunter or $9.36/ac per hunting club. These results suggested that landowners in Alabama could increase access fees for hunting leases. South. J. Appl. For. 28(1):21–27.
Seedling Evaluation of Atlantic Coastal and Piedmont Sources of Loblolly Pine and Their Hybrids for Height Growth
Authors: McKeand Steven E. , Kegley Angelia J. , Li Bailian
Published: August 2019

Seedlings of 60 loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) polycross families representing four populations, Atlantic Coastal (CxC), Piedmont (PxP), Coastal × Piedmont (CxP), and Piedmont × Coastal (PxC) were evaluated for first-year seedling height growth in an outdoor site in Raleigh, North Carolina. The CxP hybrids grew as well as the pure Coastal loblolly source, and the PxC hybrids were not significantly taller than the pure Piedmont population. The hybrid populations were intermediate between the parental populations and did not exhibit heterosis for height. However, the hybrids were 4–10% taller than the PxP population, which is the population currently used for forestation in the Piedmont region. There was an advantage for early seedling height growth in having the female parent from the Coastal plain, which appeared to be related to length of the growing season as measured by bud set time. There were strong family differences for seedling height within populations, indicating the potential for selecting the best families within the best populations. The implication is that the hybrid populations of CxP and PxC with improved growth may be better planting stock for the Piedmont than the pure Piedmont populations on some sites. Before implementing such a plan, cold-hardiness and long-term growth and adaptability should be evaluated. South. J. Appl. For. 28(2):83–90.
Harvesting System Simulation Using a Systems Dynamic Model
Authors: Visser Rien J. M. , McDonagh Kieran D. , Meller Russell D. , McDonald Timothy P.
Published: August 2019

To compete in the current work environment in the southeastern United States, forestry companies and logging contractors must manage their harvest systems to ensure efficient production. Efficiency in this case can be defined in terms of tons of wood produced per unit of system cost. Site and system factors affect the output from a stand and affect the efficiency of different harvesting systems. A model was developed that can simulate harvesting system production efficiency with changing stand and terrain parameters. Four common southeastern US harvesting systems were included in the model. The model includes functions, adjustable by the user, that quantify the efficiency of each harvest system is measured with respect to terrain parameters (slope and average extraction distance), as well as stand parameters (average tree diameter, stocking intensity, and harvest intensity). By adjusting any of these parameters, it is possible to compare the four harvest systems and to perform various sensitivity analyses. Result examples presented in the article include change in productivity with increasing tree size, productivity changes of a cut-to-length system in varied silvicultural conditions, as well as the associated evaluation of the cost of inefficiency of each system. South. J. Appl. For. 28(2):91–99.
Wet-Weather Timber Harvesting and Site Preparation Effects on Coastal Plain Sites: A Review
Authors: Aust W. Michael , Miwa Masato , Burger James A. , Patterson Steve C. , Carter Emily A.
Published: August 2019

Increased interest in sustainable forestry has intensified the need for information on the interactions of forest soils, harvesting methods, site disturbances, and the efficacy of methods for ameliorating disturbances. On wet pine flats, such as those commonly found in the Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plains, conditions such as frequent rainfall, low relief, and poor internal soil drainage often predispose forest soils to harvest disturbances and potential damage. Typical forest operations use heavy logging equipment, such as rubber-tired feller-bunchers and skidders. During dry soil conditions, these machines cause little soil disturbance, but under moist to saturated conditions, such operations may compact soils and interfere with normal soil drainage. Many studies have been conducted to characterize soil disturbance and site preparation effects on tree seedling survival and growth and to evaluate the amelioration effect of site preparation on disturbed soils. However, results are sometimes contradictory due to site specificity, and results have not been summarized in the context of pine plantation management. This article summarizes previous research results of the wet-weather harvesting and bedding effects on soil properties as related to loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) productivity for a variety of Coastal Plain region sites types. South. J. Appl. For. 28(3):137–151.
Economic Returns Model for Silvicultural Investments in Young Hardwood Stands
Authors: Siry Jacek P. , Robison Daniel J. , Cubbage Frederick W.
Published: August 2019

Despite covering the majority of forestland in the southern United States, hardwoods continue to be grown primarily in natural, extensively managed stands. One reason has been that hardwood growth increases resulting from active management have been small in comparison with unmanaged stands. Recent studies indicate, however, that the productivity responses of very young (ages 1–15 years) natural even-aged hardwood stands to silvicultural treatments such as fertilization, herbicide release, or stocking control can yield large productivity increases, demonstrating the potential for faster timber growth of higher quality in shorter rotations. In determining the extent to which these productivity increases may justify investment in various silvicultural treatments, we have developed hardwood management scenarios representing productivity increases of up to 33%. Timber revenues have been estimated and rates of return compared across various management intensities. Results indicate that the assumed productivity increases would readily pay for treatments such as fertilization, herbaceous release, and stocking control while yielding rates of returns equal to or greater than those generated by untreated stands. South. J. Appl. For. 28(4):179–184.
Initial Effects of Prescribed Fire on Quality of Soil Solution and Streamwater in the Southern Appalachian Mountains
Authors: Elliott Katherine J. , Vose James M.
Published: August 2019

Prescribed burning is being used in the Conasauga River Watershed in southeastern Tennessee and northern Georgia by National Forest managers to restore degraded pine/oak communities. The purpose of these burns is to restore shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata Miller)/mixed-oak forestswith more diverse understories, which include native bluestem grasses (Andropogon gyrans Ashe and Schizachyrium scoparium (Michx.) Nash). Although burning might be an effective tool for restoring these stands to a shortleaf pine/mixed-oak/bluestem grass community type, it isnot known whether these restoration burns will have a negative impact on water quality. Six subwatersheds (similar in vegetation, soil type, stream size and location, and disturbance history) were located within the Conasauga River Watershed. Four of the sites were burned in Mar. 2001, andtwo sites were designated as controls. To evaluate initial effects of prescribed burning on water quality, we measured soil solution and streamwater nutrient concentrations and streamwater sediment concentration (TSS; total suspended solids) weekly over a 10-month period. Consistent with goalsof the land managers, all the prescribed fires resulted in low- to moderate-intensity and low-severity fires. Soil solution and streamwater NO−3-N and NH+4-N did not increase after burning on any of the sites. We found no differences inTSS between burn and control streams in any of the sample periods. In addition, we found no detectable differences between control and burned sites for concentrations of PO3−4, SO2−4, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+,or pH in soil solution or streamwater. Thus, these prescribed restoration fires did not have a significant effect on soil solution and stream chemistry or stream sediment (TSS) concentrations. Our results suggest that low-intensity, low-severity fires, such as those in this study, could beused as a tool to restore vegetation structure and composition in these mixed pine-hardwood ecosystems without negatively impacting water quality. South. J. Appl. For. 29(1):5–15.
What is Ahead for Intensive Pine Plantation Silviculture in the South?
Authors: Lee Allen H. , Fox Thomas R. , Campbell Robert G.
Published: August 2019

The southeastern United States produces more industrial timber than any other region of the world from a forest base that includes almost one-half of the world's industrial forest plantations. Although current growth rates are substantially lower than in many other forest plantation areas in the world, growth rates exceeding 10 tons/acre/year are biologically possible and financially attractive in the region. Dramatic gains in growth and value became possible as we recognized that intensive plantation silviculture is like agriculture: Both the plant and the soil need to be actively managed to optimize value. Optimizing value starts with planting high-quality seedlings or plantlets from the best families of the right species to a site where competing vegetation has been suppressed and where the soil may have been tilled and/or fertilized to improve early tree growth. In most cases, these treatments will need to be followed by competing vegetation suppression, repeated nutrient additions, thinning, and pruning – treatments that provide needed resources to the appropriate number of quality crop trees. Several challenges remain to implement the silvicultural systems needed to fully realize the potential value of our plantations in a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable manner; however, looking into the future, we see clonal plantations, whole rotation resource management regimes, use of spatially explicit spectral reflectance data as a major information source, active management to minimize insect and disease losses, and more attention to growing wood for specific products. South. J. Appl. For. 29(2):62–69.
Influence of Precommercial Thinning and Fertilization on Total Stem Volume and Lower Stem Form of Loblolly Pine
Authors: Haywood James D.
Published: August 2019

Two cultural treatments were applied in an overstocked loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.)plantation (2,900 trees/ha after eight growing seasons): precommercial thinning (Yes or No) to 747 trees/ha after the eighth growing season and broadcast fertilization (Yes or No) with diammonium phosphate (150 kg/ha of P and 135 kg/ha of N) early in the ninth growing season. Total height and diameter at breast height (dbh) measurements were taken periodically through the 14th growing season. Fertilization increased tree volume more than thinning in the 9th through 10th growing seasons, but thinning was most effective by the 13th growing season. Over the 6-year period, thinning was the most effective cultural practice: check, 110 dm3; fertilized only, 135 dm3; thinned only, 165 dm3; and thinned and fertilized, 220 dm3/loblolly pine tree. After the 14th growing season, the first 5 m of bole was divided into five sections beginning at a 15-cm stump height: 15–30, 30–60, 60–125, 125–250, and 250–500 cm, and the volume for each section was calculated. Outside-bark volume per section increased consistently with thinning and fertilization; therefore, cultural practices did not change stem form in the lower bole. South. J. Appl. For. 29(4):215–220.
Seed Handling Practices for Southern Pines Grown in Containers
Authors: Pawuk William H. , Barnett James P.
Published: August 2019

Costs of producing container-grown seedlings increase when containers are not fully stocked. Best use of containers requires high seed viability and low losses of newly germinated seedlings. Seed handling practices before and after sowing affect germination and seedling survival. This is a summary of seed preparation, sowing rates, disease control, and seed germination for container-grown southern pines.
Rootstock Affects Susceptibility of Slash Pine Scions To Fusiform Rust
Authors: Hollis C. A. , Smith J. E. , Kok H. R.
Published: August 2019

The use of susceptible slash pine families for root-stock causes a significant increase in fusiform rust incidence in resistant scion material of slash pine and could result in costly losses of superior genetic material from advanced generation seed orchards due to stem breakage and roguing of heavily infected trees.
Nitrogen Fertilization Decreases Yellow-Poplar Wood Density
Authors: Ross Donald , Buckner Edward , Core Harold , Woods Frank
Published: August 2019

The effects of nitrogen fertilization on the relative wood density and growth of yellow-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera L.) were studied over two growth periods. Transmitted gamma rays were used to measure relative wood density. A small but significant decrease in relative wood density was accompanied by diameter, height, basal area, and cubic volume increases of much greater magnitude. These results suggest a small wood quality loss relative to the volume gain from nitrogen fertilization of yellow-poplar on deficient sites.
Effect of Soil Type and Site-Preparation Method on Growth and Yield of Flatwoods Slash Pine Plantations
Authors: Shiver Barry D. , Fortson James C.
Published: August 2019

Analysis of measurements from slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) plantations in the flatwoods of Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina showed that plantations located on areas where debris had been moved (KG, bulldozed, rootraked, etc.) had significantly higher site indices than plantations located on comparable areas where debris had not been moved. Plantations located on spodic soils had significantly lower site indices than plantations located on nonspodic soils. While these differences were statistically significant, they were generally less than 2 feet at age 25. Neither volume nor percent survival was significantly affected by site-preparation classes or soils groups.
Stump Sprouts of Swamp and Water Tupelo Produce Viable Seeds
Authors: Priester David S.
Published: August 2019

Stump sprouts of both swamp (Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora (Walt.) Sarg.) and water (N. aquatica L.) tupelo can produce seeds two years after sprouting. For both species, seeds of tree origin are heavier and shoots of resulting seedlings are initially taller than those of sprout origin, but after one year seedlings of the two origins are not significantly different in shoot length and total weight. Thus, if seed crops are poor or fail to germinate after harvesting, stump sprouts can provide a suitable seed source within two years.
Containerized Shortleaf Pine Seedlings Show Superior Growth and Ectomycorrhizal Development with Mist Foliar Fertilization
Authors: Dixon R. K. , Garrett H. E. , Cox G. S.
Published: August 2019

Ectomycorrhizal and nonmycorrhizal shortleaf pine seedlings were grown in book planters in a greenhouse for 11 weeks. Fertilizer mixtures composed of nitrogen-zinc or nitrogen-magnesium were applied as a mist to the foliage of the seedlings or as a solution to their rooting media. Significant increases in ectomycorrhizal development and total seedling dry weight resulted from foliar fertilization. Fertilization with nitrogen-magnesium caused a significant increase in the number of ectomycorrhizal lateral roots as compared to fertilization with nitrogen-zinc.
Inoculation of Nursery Seedbeds with Pisolithus Tinctorius Spores Mixed with Hydromulch Increases Ectomycorrhizae and Growth of Loblolly Pines
Authors: Marx Donald H. , Mexal John G. , Morris William G.
Published: August 2019

Different methods of introducing basidiospores (4/5 oz. spores/100 linear ft. of nursery bed) of Pisolithus tinctorius into fumigated soil at Weyerhaeuser's nursery in Oklahoma were tested to determine their effectiveness in forming ectomycorrhizae on loblolly pine seedlings. Two of five methods proved significantly effective. Nearly three-fourths of seedlings treated with spores mixed in hydromulch and applied after sowing formed Pisolithus ectomycorrhizae. The result was 25 percent larger seedlings and 15 percent fewer culls. In plots where spores were dusted onto the soil at sowing, one-third of the seedlings formed Pisolithus ectomycorrhizae, resulting in 12 percent larger seedlings and 13 percent fewer culls.
Predicting Root Biomass of Burned and Unburned White Oak Advance Reproduction from Diameter and Height
Authors: Knapp Benjamin O. , Wang G. Geoff , Van Lear David H. , Walker Joan L.
Published: August 2019

The size, especially the root size, of advance oak (Quercus spp.) reproduction provides the best indication of the growth potential after release or top-kill. This study examined the relationship between the size of the root system and various diameter/height measurements for small (<60 cm) white oak (Q. alba L.) seedlings. Diameters measured at the top of the litter and humus layers and at the root collar were tested for their ability to predict root biomass on burned and unburned sites. Despite their close physical proximity, separate equations were required for burned and unburned sites when predicting root biomass from diameters measured at the humus and root collar locations, as well as height and diameter/height combinations. On burned sites, all diameter measures were good predictors, accounting for 75 to 86% of the total variance of root biomass. On the unburned site, the best predictor was the diameter measured at the root collar, accounting for 85% of the total variance of root biomass. Diameter at the litter level accounted for only 55% of the total variance of root biomass whereas diameter at the top of the humus layer accounted for 53%. When dealing with stands of unknown disturbance history, the diameter measured at the root collar should be used to predict root biomass for small seedlings.South. J. Appl. For. 30(1):40–45.
Changes in Forest Structure Associated with Oak Decline in Severely Impacted Areas of Northern Arkansas
Authors: Heitzman Eric , Grell Adrian , Spetich Martin , Starkey Dale
Published: August 2019

Four mature northern red oak (Quercus rubra L.)–white oak (Quercus alba L.) stands in the Boston Mountains of northern Arkansas were studied to describe the vegetation dynamics of forests heavily impacted by oak decline. Northern red oak was the species most susceptible to decline. Across the four stands, 51–75% of red oak density (trees/ha) was dead or dying, as was 40–70% of the red oak basal area. Red oak damage occurred across a range of tree sizes. Healthy red oak had low populations of red oak borer (Enaphalodes rufulus Haldeman), and dead/dying red oak supported large numbers of borers. Impacts on white oak were less severe and generally limited to smaller trees. Decline had changed what once were red oak-dominated stands to more mixed forests of white oak, hickory (Carya spp.), red oak, blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica Marsh.), and red maple (Acer rubrum L.). Understory trees and seedlings were predominantly blackgum, red maple, hickory, black cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrh), flowering dogwood (Cornus florida L.), and sassafras (Sassafras albidum [Nutt.] Nees). However, well-developed red and white oak advance regeneration was present in all stands. It is unclear if the death of overstory trees will favor the regeneration of nonoaks, or whether oak regeneration will successfully recruit within canopy gaps created by this disturbance.
Opportunity Costs of Managing for Wildlife Habitat in the North Central Hills Region of Mississippi
Authors: Barlow Rebecca , Grado Stephen , Miller Darren , Grebner Donald
Published: August 2019

Nonmarketed forest outputs need to be quantitatively measured and valued to project monetary gains and losses associated with varying these outputs relative to timber production. Of particular importance to many landowners is the quantity and value of timber production forgone relative to the creation or maintenance of wildlife habitat. We used scenario planning and a geographic information system to estimate potential monetary gains or losses for the North Central Hills region in Mississippi by manipulating timber growing stock to produce more or less habitat for northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris). As expected, timber management–only scenarios, which maximized net present value (NPV), produced higher equivalent annual income values per hectare and allocated fewer habitat hectares for all wildlife species versus managing for wildlife habitat quality. Inclusion of fee hunting reduced cost differences between NPV only and improved wildlife habitat management scenarios. Simulations comparing management regimes maximizing NPV and optimizing wildlife habitat resulted in quantitative measures, which will be useful for land managers evaluating tradeoffs inherent in multiple-use management.
Assessment of Compliance of Forestry Best Management Practices in West Virginia
Authors: Wang Jingxin , McNeel Joseph , Goff William , Milauskas Steve
Published: August 2019

The compliance of forestry best management practices (BMP) was assessed based on 116 randomly selected sites harvested between November 2003 and March 2004 in West Virginia. Landowners were contacted to gain permission for site visits according to the random list. The landowners also were interviewed to identify their knowledge and satisfaction about the harvest and BMP. Four checklists were used to assess 29 BMPs on haul roads, skid trails, landings, and in streamside management zones (SMZ). A general increasing trend in BMP compliance was noted in this statewide BMP assessment with an overall BMP compliance of 74%. Results also indicated that the BMP compliances averaged 81% on haul roads, 68% on skid trails, 80% on landings, and 55% in SMZs.
Chipping Whole Trees for Fuel Chips: A Production Study
Authors: Mitchell Dana , Gallagher Tom
Published: August 2019

A time and motion study was conducted to determine the productivity and cost of an in-woods chipping operation when processing whole small-diameter trees for biomass. The study removed biomass from two overstocked stands and compared the cost of this treatment to existing alternatives. The treatment stands consisted of a 30-year-old longleaf pine stand and a 37-year-old loblolly pine stand. In the longleaf pine stand, 71% of the trees removed were less than 5 in. dbh. In the loblolly pine stand, approximately 81% of the stems removed were less than 5 in. dbh. The harvesting system consisted of conventional ground-based harvesting equipment and a three-knife chipper that processed the biomass into fuel chips. The average production time to fill a chip van was 24.61 minutes. The chip moisture content averaged 94.11% (dry basis). Using machine rates and federal labor wage rates, the in-woods cost of producing fuel chips was $9.18/green ton (gt). The cost of the biomass chipping operation ($15.18/gt), including transportation, compared favorably to existing alternative treatments of cut-and-pile or mulching.
2001 Economic Impacts of the Forest Products Industry in the South
Authors: Tilley Bart , Munn Ian A.
Published: August 2019

The economic impacts of the forest products industry in the South on state and regional economies were estimated using the Impact Analysis for Planning (IMPLAN) System, an input–output model. Economic impacts were characterized by the (1) direct effects of these industries through their own output, employment, value added, and total and personal income and (2) associated economic multipliers that illustrate the magnitude of the ripple effect direct effects have on the rest of the economy. Direct effects and social accounting matrix multipliers for 2001 are presented by sector (i.e., lumber and wood products, paper and allied products, and wood furniture) for the 13 southern states individually and the region as a whole.
Changes in Georgia's Logging Workforce, 1987–2007
Authors: Baker Shawn A. , Greene W. Dale
Published: August 2019

We have conducted a survey of Georgia's logging contractors every 5 years for a period of 20 years (1987–2007). These data provide a useful measure to assess changes in the contractor workforce over this time period. The average weekly production of logging firms has increased 83% since 1987. A moderate increase (approximately 15%) in representation of fully mechanized logging crews has been followed by increased investments in crews of this type but declining marginal returns on investment. Average production per man-hour worked has increased over 50%. No distinct changes in landownership patterns or average harvest acreages were noted. Implementation of best management practices increased steadily through the years and is now over 95%. Lost time accidents have decreased 90%.Financial concerns and finding suitable employees continue to be among the key problems listed by respondents. Increases in average owner age and a distinct shift in the distribution of ages throughout the population of firm owners are issues of concern for the future.
Characterization of Fuel before and after a Single Prescribed Fire in an Appalachian Hardwood Forest
Authors: Loucks Elizabeth , Arthur Mary A. , Lyons Jessi E. , Loftis David L.
Published: August 2019

Improved understanding of how fuel loads and prescribed fire interact in Appalachian hardwood forests can help managers evaluate the impacts of increased use of prescribed fire in the region. The objective of this study was to characterize fuel loads before and after a single late-winter/early spring prescribed fire and after autumn leaf fall. A repeated measures split-plot design was used to examine dead and down fuels by treatment, sampling time, and landscape position. Preburn mean fuel mass was 40.5 Mg/ha with the duff (Oea) comprising the largest component (19.5 Mg/ha; 48%), followed by large (more than 7.6 cm in diameter) downed logs (9.6 Mg/ha; 24%). Fuel mass was similar across landscape positions; however, duff depth was greater on subxeric compared with intermediate and submesic landscape positions. Burning reduced litter mass (Oi; P < 0.001)and duff depth (P = 0.01). Changes in woody fuels (1-, 10-, 100-, and 1,000-hour) and duff mass were not statistically significant. Post–leaf fall fuel masses did not differ from preburn masses. Thus, a single prescribed burn did not accomplish significant fuel reduction. However, significant declines in duff depth and fuel bed continuity may limit the spread of fire beyond leaf fall and increase potential for soil erosion. This study contributes to the dialogue regarding the use of fire in the Appalachian forest region and impacts on fuel loads.
Applying Spatial Analysis Techniques to Assess Tennessee Urban Forests
Authors: Bridges Christopher A.
Published: August 2019

Although the social, economic, and ecological benefits of urban forests have been well-documented, fewer efforts have been made to conduct landscape level assessments of urban forest canopy. This technical note describes how spatial analysis techniques were used to evaluate urban forest canopy cover in 133 municipal urban areas across Tennessee. Municipalities were compared based on participation in the Tree City USA program. Although urban forests vary greatly, results indicated that cities participating in this community forestry initiative exhibit higher levels of urban forest canopy cover. The integration of geographic information systems and remote sensing data presents new opportunities for community foresters to efficiently and effectively monitor urban ecosystems and formulate appropriate policy responses that can help to ensure forest sustainability across the urban–rural interface.
Predicting Diameter Distributions for Young Longleaf Pine Plantations in Southwest Georgia
Authors: Jiang Lichun , Brooks John R.
Published: August 2019

Parameter prediction equations for the Weibull distribution function were developed based on four percentile functions and a parameter recovery method for longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) in Southwest Georgia. Four percentiles were expressed as functions of stand-level characteristics based on stepwise regression and seemingly unrelated regression. Using a percentile-based parameter recovery method (PCT), estimated diameter distributions were obtained from available stand-level variables. The PCT method was also compared with a cumulative distribution function (CDF) regression method. The PCT method produced consistently better goodness-of-fit statistics than the CDF method. The results indicate that diameter distribution in longleaf pine stands can be successfully characterized with the Weibull function.
Occurrence of Carpenter Ants in Ozark Forests in Relation to Prescribed Fire and Stand Variables
Authors: Verble Robin M. , Stephen Fred M.
Published: August 2019

Fire is a natural abiotic disturbance agent that is important in determining the vegetation patterns observed in many hardwood forests. Although natural fire was suppressed through much of the 20th century, in the late 20th century, fire was reintroduced into many ecosystems in the form of prescribed burning. The effects of fire on insect populations are not well understood. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of prescribed fire, tree species, and tree size on black carpenter ant abundance and distribution. The effects of prescribed fire, tree species group, and tree dbh on black carpenter occurrence were studied using a presence–absence baited test on 3,556 trees in the oak–hickory forests of the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. Trees were distributed over unburned areas and areas burned in the dormant seasons of 2005, 2006, and 2007. Black carpenter ants occurred most frequently at baits on large red oaks and least frequently at baits on small hickories, suggesting that they preferentially forage on certain tree species and sizes. Occurrence of black carpenter ants varied by fire treatment. Habitat alterations are likely to be a cause of ant occurrence patterns in oak–hickory forests, but additional studies are necessary to understand the mechanism behind this trend.
Predicting the Probability of Landowner Participation in Conservation Assistance Programs: A Case Study of the Northern Cumberland Plateau of Tennessee
Authors: Kaetzel Brandon R. , Hodges Donald G. , Houston David , Fly J. M.
Published: August 2019

Financial incentive programs offer one means of encouraging landowners to manage forests in the face of increasing development pressures. Using data collected in a 2005 survey by the University of Tennessee's Human Dimensions Lab of 1,462 woodland landowners on the Tennessee Northern Cumberland Plateau (Cumberland, Fentress, Morgan, and Scott counties), models were developed to predict landowner enrollment in such programs. The probability of landowner enrollment was calculated using logistic regression. Results reveal that a significant positive relationship exists between amount of land owned and conservation aid program enrollment. Also, there is a positive relationship between receiving information from government agencies or foresters and conservation aid program enrollment. Increasing enrollment in conservation aid programs will depend on targeting landowners with information from government agencies and providing opportunities to talk to a forester. More research on landowner demographics is necessary to create models that more accurately predict probability of landowner enrollment in conservation aid programs.
A New Whole-Stand Model for Unmanaged Loblolly and Slash Pine Plantations in East Texas
Authors: Coble Dean W.
Published: August 2019

A new compatible whole-stand growth-and-yield model to predict total tree cubic-foot volume per acre yield (outside and inside bark) was developed for unmanaged loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and slash pine (Pinus elliottii) plantations in East Texas. This model was compared with the noncompatible whole-stand model of Lenhart (Lenhart, 1996, Total and partial stand-level yield prediction for loblolly and slash pine plantations in east Texas, South. J. Appl. For. 20(1):36–41) and the Lenhart (1996) model refit to current data. For the two species, all three models were evaluated with independent observed data. The model developed in this study outperformed both Lenhart models in prediction of future yield and basal area per acre for all age classes combined and by 5-year age classes. The Lenhart models consistently overestimated yield and basal area per acre. All three models predicted surviving trees per acre similarly. An example is also provided to show users how to use the new whole-stand model.
Assessment of Stream Management Zones and Road Beautifying Buffers in Georgia Based on Remote Sensing and Various Ground Inventory Data
Authors: Lowe Roger C. , Cieszewski Chris J. , Liu Shangbin , Meng Qingmin , Siry Jacek P. , Zasada Michał , Zawadzki Jaroslaw
Published: August 2019

Stream management zones (SMZs) and road beautifying buffers (RBBs) are voluntary in Georgia and have an unknown extent and impact on the state's forest production. We describe analyses of these buffers, including an estimation of their potential areas and volumes, and their distributions in different forest cover types under an assumption of their full implementation. We base this analysis on Landsat 7 Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus imagery and various sources of ancillary data, such as those from the Georgia Gap Analysis Program, the Forest Inventory and Analysis large-scale forest survey, and various industrial forest ground inventories. We considered stream data classified into trout, perennial, and intermittent streams, which we combined with elevation and slope information to assess buffer widths consistent with Georgia's Best Management Practices rules. Our results indicate that minimum width 12.2-m SMZ buffers would occupy about 4.01% of the total forested area in Georgia and would cover about 4.32% of the state's volume. The area of the wider, 30.5-m SMZ buffers would cover about 8.65% of the total forested area in Georgia and would cover about 9.27% of the state's total volume. The minimum-width 12.2-m RBBs would occupy about 3.64% of the total forested area in Georgia and would cover about 3.52% of the state's volume. The area of the wider, 30.5-m RBBs would occupy almost 8.68% of the total forested area in Georgia and would cover about 8.40% of the state's total volume.
Biomass Equations for Hardwood Resprouts in Fire-Maintained Pinelands in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Robertson Kevin M. , Ostertag Thomas E.
Published: August 2019

The ability to estimate plant biomass is important for a wide range of ecological and land-management applications. Species-specific allometric equations for estimating plant biomass still have not been established for hardwood seedling and sapling resprouts in southeastern US Coastal Plain upland pine forests managed with frequent fire. We developed equations to estimate leaf, woody, and total biomass from stem diameter at the base for plants with diameters ranging from 0.1 to 3.3 cm for 14 species of hardwoods commonly found in this forest type. Between 21 and 53 plants per species were measured, collected, and weighed to calculate best-fit regression equations. Fitness indices for equations predicting total biomass ranged from 0.80 to 0.96 among species and was 0.83 for all species combined. Equations were generally very similar among species. Equations were most similar among species that are relatively fire tolerant and typically occupy relatively xeric sites, which had lower levels of leaf and woody biomass per stem diameter at higher diameters. These equations provide reliable estimates of understory hardwood stem biomass for common species in Coastal Plain upland pine forests managed with prescribed burning.
A Height–Diameter Curve for Longleaf Pine Plantations in the Gulf Coastal Plain
Authors: Leduc Daniel , Goelz Jeffery
Published: August 2019

Tree height is a critical component of a complete growth-and-yield model because it is one of the primary components used in volume calculation. To develop an equation to predict total height from dbh for longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) plantations in the West Gulf region, many different sigmoidal curve forms, weighting functions, and ways of expressing height and diameter were explored. Most of the functional forms tried produced very similar results, but ultimately the form developed by Levakovic was chosen as best. Another useful result was that scaling diameters by the quadratic mean diameter on a plot and height by the average height of dominant and codominant trees in the target stand resulted in dramatically better fits than using these variables in their raw forms.