bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertical Stress in the Gravel Decking of Log Bridges
Authors: Lyons C. Kevin , Lansdowne Matthew
Published: August 2019

As the forest industry moves into second growth stands with smaller tree diameters the design of gravel-decked log stringer bridges becomes more critical. This article considers the stress field at the base of the gravel decking. The results of this article indicate that stress equations derived from elastic theory for a semi-infinite solid underestimate the magnitude of the maximum vertical stress at the base of the gravel decking. Therefore, a finite element model (FEM) was used to estimate the stress field at the base of the gravel decking. A single equation was fit to the FEM results for a range of gravel depths using a unit load. This equation provides a method for estimating the vertical stress at the base of the gravel decking that is a function of the horizontal distance from the center of the tire contact patch and the total depth of the gravel decking.
A Light-Adjusted Growth Intercept Model for Predicting White Spruce Site Index
Authors: Kalischuk Melanie , Blenis Peter V. , Kawchuk Lawrence M.
Published: August 2019

One of the challenges of managing spruce-aspen mixedwoods in the boreal forest is the difficulty in determining site index for spruce in those stands in which it occurs primarily in the understory. A study was conducted to determine if growth increment of understory spruce, adjusted for available light, could predict spruce site index. In each of nine stands, spruce site index was determined for three dominant trees. Available light (measured as proportion transmitted) and growth increment (estimated by the growth intercept method) were recorded for three to eight understory spruce per stand. Growth increment adjusted for available light predicted spruce site index better (R2 = 0.56 or 0.63, depending on the model used) than unadjusted growth increment (R2 = 0.10), thus indicating the potential for using light-adjusted growth increment to predict site index.
Modeling Fuel Treatment Costs on Forest Service Lands in the Western United States
Authors: Calkin David , Gebert Krista
Published: August 2019

Years of successful fire suppression have led to high fuel loads on the nation's forests, and steps are being taken by the nation's land management agencies to reduce these fuel loads. However, to achieve desired outcomes in a fiscally responsible manner, the cost and effectiveness in reducing losses due to wildland fire of different fuel treatments in different forest settings must be understood. Currently, prioritizing fuel treatment activities and planning budget expenditures is limited by a lack of accurate cost data. The primary objective of this research was to develop regression models that may be used to estimate the cost of hazardous fuel reduction treatments based on USDA Forest Service Region, biophysical setting, treatment type, and design. A survey instrument was used to obtain activity-specific information directly from fire management officers at Forest Service Ranger Districts for treatments occurring between 2001 and 2003. For both prescribed burns and mechanical activities, treatment size described the largest amount of variation in cost per acre, with increased size reducing cost per acre, on average. We confirmed that data on Forest Service fuel treatment activities maintained in the National Fire Plan Operations and Reporting System were not sufficiently accurate for reasonable cost analysis and modeling.
Standard and Real-Time Accuracy and Reliability of a Mapping-Grade GPS in a Coniferous Western Oregon Forest
Authors: Wing Michael G. , Karsky Richard
Published: August 2019

Accuracy requirements for forested resource measurements can vary greatly depending on analysis and management objectives. Technologies that present efficiencies for reliable measurement collection may help organizations better meet data requirements. We tested the accuracy and reliability of a mapping-grade GPS in a variety of forested conditions in western Oregon. Our objectives were to measure the performance of a GPS operating in a standard configuration and also with real-time US Coast Guard Beacon signals. We also examined the influence of postfield differential corrections and the number of GPS points collected on measurement accuracy and reliability. We found measurement accuracies between 1 and 4 m from true position depending on the amount of canopy closure and the type of GPS configuration. Our results indicated that both standard-mode GPS and US Coast Guard Beacon signals can produce very accurate measurements in open-canopy conditions but are less reliable in young-forest conditions. Postprocessing of field measurements generally yielded improved measurements in young-forest settings but led to slightly reduced accuracies for US Coast Guard Beacon data collected in open-canopy settings. Our results also indicated that collecting a greater number of points does not necessarily lead to improved measurement accuracies. West. J. Appl. For. 21(4):222–227.
Understanding and Defining Mortality in Western Conifer Forests
Authors: Filip Gregory M. , Schmitt Craig L. , Scott Donald W. , Fitzgerald Stephen A.
Published: August 2019

Tree mortality in western conifer forests is a complex process involving several related factors. Conifer mortality tends to be more common in high-elevation forests where stress from weather, insects, and disease result in higher rates of mortality and in the drier interior forests where mortality from fire, insects, and disease are common. Immediate mortality from fire damage may be obvious, but currently there is considerable controversy about labeling fire-injured green trees as dead that have a high probability of experiencing delayed mortality. Trees die when carbohydrates used in respiration exceed those produced in photosynthesis or water movement is impaired, the tree desiccates, and photosynthesis ceases. Immediate or delayed tree mortality may be directly due to biotic or abiotic causes and may be affected by previous damage, current condition (vigor), and attack by secondary agents such as bark beetles. A particular pathogen or insect usually attacks, damages, or kills only one portion of a tree. Trees that are damaged or attacked by pests and expected to have a dead or nonfunctional root system or a nonfunctional stem within 5 years may be considered either dead or death is imminent. Numerous studies have produced logistic regression equations or other statistical models to help determine probability of tree survival. We define and propose that a “dead tree” designation is justified for most species when at least three of the four quadrants from around the base of the root collar has cambium, inner bark, or phloem that are discolored and dead. For large ponderosa pines, a dead tree has all four quadrants with dead cambium.
Phosphorus Additions Increase the Early Growth of Red Alder (Alnus rubra Bong.) on Vancouver Island
Authors: Brown Kevin R. , Courtin P.J.
Published: August 2019

The effects of nutrient additions on growth of the red alder (Alnus rubra Bong.) are not well known. We examined the growth and nutritional responses of 10 young (0–4 years old at time of fertilization) red alder plantations on eastern Vancouver Island to additions of phosphorus (P), added as triple super phosphate, and a blended fertilizer (F) containing elements other than nitrogen (N), P, and calcium (Ca). Site fertility classes ranged from poor to very rich and soil moisture regime classes ranged from moderately dry to very moist. Nutrients were added in single-tree plots and responses were measured for up to 3 years after fertilization. In plantations fertilized within 1 year of planting, P additions increased heights (average of 17%), basal diameters (28%), and stem volumes (68%) over a 3-year period and increased 1st-year foliar concentrations of P, N, and S. The fertilizer supplying other elements also increased concentrations of N and S, along with potassium (K), boron (B), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn), but increased volume by only 16%. These data suggest that deficiencies of P are more likely to limit the growth of young red alder than are deficiencies of other elements. Older plantations (more than 2 years postplanting) were less responsive to fertilization than were younger plantations (less than 2 years postplanting). Growth of young red alder appears limited by P availability when soil Bray-P and foliar P concentrations are less than approximately 12 mg kg−1 and 2 g kg−1, respectively.
The Relationship Between Productivities of Salmonids and Forest Stands in Northern California Watersheds
Authors: Frazey Sharon L. , Wilzbach Margaret A.
Published: August 2019

Productivities of resident salmonids and upland and riparian forests in 22 small watersheds of coastal northern California were estimated and compared to determine whether: 1) upland site productivity predicted riparian site productivity; 2) either upland or riparian site productivity predicted salmonid productivity; and 3) other parameters explained more of the variance in salmonid productivity. Upland and riparian site productivities were estimated using Site Index values for redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) and red alder (Alnus rubra), respectively. Salmonid productivity was indexed by back-calculated length at age 1 of the largest individuals sampled and by total biomass. Upland and riparian site indices were correlated, but neither factor contributed to the best approximating models of salmonid productivity. Total salmonid biomass was best described by a positive relationship with drainage area. Length of dominant fish was best described by a positive relationship with percentage of hardwoods within riparian areas, which may result from nutrient and/or litter subsidies provided by red alder. The inability of forest productivity to predict salmon productivity may reflect insufficient variation in independent variables, limitations of the indices, and the operation of other factors affecting salmonid production. The lack of an apparent relationship between upland conifer and salmonid productivity suggests that management of land for timber productivity and component streams for salmonid production in these sites will require separate, albeit integrated, management strategies.
Maximum Stand-Density Index of 40 Western Hemlock–Sitka Spruce Stands in Southeast Alaska
Authors: Poage Nathan J. , Marshall David D. , McClellan Michael H.
Published: August 2019

Reineke's (1933) maximum stand-density index (SDImax) was determined for 40 unthinned, fully stocked, even-aged, hemlock-spruce stands in southeast Alaska. A nonlinear model was used to identify objectively the linear portions of the stands' self-thinning trajectories for analysis. The objectives of the present study were (1) to use the modeled slopes and intercepts to determine the mean SDImax of the stands and (2) to identify stand and site factors associated with the variability observed in SDImax. The mean SDImax of the 40 hemlock-spruce stands in southeast Alaska was 619. Individually, none of the stand or site factors examined accounted for >30% of the variability observed in SDImax when all 40 stands were analyzed together. Although the spruce proportion of total stand basal area of most stands increased over time and the hemlock proportion of total stand basal area of most stands decreased over time, SDImax was not related to species proportion or changes in species proportion over time.
Laminated Root Rot and Fumigant Injection Affect Survival and Growth of Douglas-Fir
Authors: Harrington Constance A. , Thies Walter G.
Published: August 2019

Laminated root rot caused by Phellinus weirii is a significant disease of western conifers; it is important to understand the effects of the disease on tree growth and survival and, for some management objectives, to develop treatments that will reduce those effects. This study was conducted in a 47-year-old Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) stand in northwest Oregon. First, we evaluated the effects of root system infection on diameter and height growth. Growth rates were lowest in trees with high infection levels; root infection level affected diameter growth more than height growth. Second, we evaluated the effects of fumigation treatments on tree growth. The nine treatments were as follows: three dosages of methylisothiocyanate (MITC), four dosages of chloropicrin (trichloronitromethane), one dosage of Vorlex [20% MITC, 80% chlorinated C3 hydrocarbons (v/v)], and a control. The fumigants were applied by inserting them into holes drilled into the base of live trees. After nine growing seasons, all three of the treatments applying different dosages of MITC and the treatment applying the lowest dosage of chloropicrin had higher tree survival rates than the untreated control, and the growth rates in those four fumigation treatments were not significantly different from growth in the surviving control trees.
Fungicidal Suppression of Swiss Needle Cast and Pathogen Reinvasion in a 20-Year-Old Douglas-Fir Stand in Oregon
Authors: Stone Jeffrey K. , Reeser Paul W. , Kanaskie Alan
Published: August 2019

Aerial applications of chorothalonil fungicide were carried out annually over 5 consecutive years, 1996–2000, on three sets of paired, 2-ha units in a Douglas-fir plantation affected by Swiss needle cast in the Oregon Coast Range. The effect of treatment on disease control was evaluated annually from 2001 to 2004. One- and 2-year-old foliage in the fungicide-treated units had fewer fruiting bodies of the pathogen Phaeocryptopus gaeumannii compared with the unsprayed units for foliage sampled in 2001. Total needle retention was also greater in the fungicide-treated units after five consecutive annual fungicide applications. Reduced P. gaeumannii infection in the fungicide-treated units persisted for foliage produced in 2001, which did not receive direct fungicide treatment. Reduced infection levels in the 2001 foliage cohort in the treated units was presumed to be due to the effect of disease control on inoculum production. At 4 years following the final treatment application, infection levels averaged over four foliage cohorts (2000–2003) remained significantly smaller for the fungicide-treated units. Trees in fungicide-treated units retained 10–50% of the 2000 needle cohort (4-year-old needles) and 25–60% of the 2001 cohort in May 2004. However, there was no detectable effect of treatment on infection for 2002 foliage sampled in 2003 or for 2003 foliage sampled in 2004 (1-year-old needles), suggesting that the duration of disease control was relatively brief.
Effect of Foliar-Applied Gibberellin A3 on Male and Female Strobilus Production and Cone and Seed Quality in Western Redcedar (Thuja plicata Donn)
Authors: Russell J.H. , Hak O.
Published: August 2019

Western redcedar (Thuja plicata Donn) foliar-applied gibberellin A3 (GA3) induction trials were performed over a 4-year period at a number of different seed orchards in coastal British Columbia. The effects of GA3 timing, concentration, and frequency on male and female strobilus production, as well as timing on seed quality, were studied. Male and female strobili were induced over the complete span of shoot elongation from May to August, indicative of a less-precise induction period than species in the Pinaceae family. Female strobilus production was correlated with shoot increment, such that maximum cone production was associated with maximum shoot elongation. In addition, seed quality decreased with decreasing shoot increments in August. For operational efficiency, a one-time foliar application of 200 mg/l GA3 is sufficient for adequate female strobilus production. To increase the female-to-male strobilus ratio, a two-time foliar application of GA3 mid-May and mid-July, concentrating on vigorous shoots, is recommended. Results are discussed in relation to seed orchard management techniques that may potentially influence selfing rates.
Broad-Scale Classification and Mapping of Tree Size and Density Attributes in Productive Old-Growth Forests in Southeast Alaska's Tongass National Forest
Authors: Caouette John P. , DeGayner Eugene J.
Published: August 2019

The forest classification and mapping system currently used in managing the Tongass National Forest (NF) is based largely on an economic forest measure, net board foot volume per acre. Although useful for timber economic modeling, this forest measure poorly differentiates old-growth forest types in a way that is meaningful to ecological and social concerns. In 2005, we published an article presenting a proposed tree size and tree density mapping model for the Tongass NF. We claimed the model would provide better information on the structural patterns in old-growth forests than did the current mapping models based on net board foot volume per acre. We also stated that further testing of our proposed model is required before it can be fully integrated into forest management plans and landscape analysis. In this article, we used independent field data to evaluate our proposed tree size and density model and better define its accuracy. Results showed differences among mapping classes similar to differences observed in the development stages of the model. Results also showed mapping accuracy estimates between 60 and 80%. We used the model in a forest management application by comparing the representation of old-growth forest types within a landscape to the representation within a management-defined subset of that landscape.
Technical Note: Evaluating the Forest Stewardship Coached Planning Course in Washington State
Authors: Baumgartner David , Cohn Patricia , Grotta Amy , Perleberg Andy , Hanley Donald , Bergstrom Arno
Published: August 2019

From 1992 to 2005, over 1,100 family forest owners in Washington State participated in a Forest Stewardship Coached Planning (FSCP) course conducted by Washington State University Extension and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. The course provides forest stewardship education and assists private forest landowners in writing their own forest stewardship management plans with guidance and “coaching” by natural resource professionals. A survey of past course participants conducted in 2006 had a 60% response rate. As a result of the course, 96% of the respondents believed they had a better understanding about management options, and 73% had implemented a practice they would not have done otherwise. Management planning is prevalent among the respondents, with nearly 70% having some type of management plan. Implementation of new management practices through the FSCP approach in Washington exceeds the rates reported in the national Forest Stewardship Program national survey.
Maintaining Soil Productivity during Forest or Biomass-to-Energy Thinning Harvests in the Western United States
Authors: Page-Dumroese Deborah S. , Jurgensen Martin , Terry Thomas
Published: August 2019

Forest biomass thinnings, to promote forest health or for energy production, can potentially impact the soil resource by altering soil physical, chemical, and/or biological properties. The extent and degree of impacts within a harvest unit or across a watershed will subsequently determine if site or soil productivity is affected. Although the impacts of stand removal on soil properties in the western United States have been documented, much less is known on periodic removals of biomass by thinnings or other partial cutting practices. However, basic recommendations and findings derived from stand-removal studies are also applicable to guide biomass thinnings for forest health, fuel reduction, or energy production. These are summarized as follows: (1) thinning operations are less likely to cause significant soil compaction than a stand-removal harvest, (2) risk-rating systems that evaluate soil susceptibility to compaction or nutrient losses from organic or mineral topsoil removal can help guide management practices, (3) using designated or existing harvesting traffic lanes and leaving some thinning residue in high traffic areas can reduce soil compactionon a stand basis, and (4) coarse-textured low fertility soils have greater risk of nutrient limitations resulting from whole-tree thinning removals than finer textured soils with higher fertility levels.
Use of Financial and Economic Analyses by Federal Forest Managers for Woody Biomass Removal
Authors: Morgan Todd A. , Brandt Jason P. , Baldridge John D. , Loeffler Dan R.
Published: August 2019

This study was sponsored by the Joint Fire Science Program to understand and enhance the ability of federal land managers to address financial and economic (F&E) aspects of woody biomass removal as a component of fire hazard reduction. Focus groups were conducted with nearly 100 federal land managers throughout the western United States. Several issues and information disconnects were identified in two major areas: the F&E analysis process and the tools and information used for F&E analyses. The most prevalent disconnects appeared to be between managers' knowledge versus acceptance and use of F&E tools developed by research entities. Most managers also tended to focus on financial rather than economic analysis. Findings suggest needs for continually updated local timber and biomass market information; training with F&E tools and methods currentlyused; ongoing technical support for tools currently used; and closer communication among forest management, research, and administrative personnel as new F&E tools or administrative processes are developed and implemented.
Thirteen-Year Height and Diameter Growth of Douglas-Fir Seedlings under Alternative Regeneration Cuts in Pacific Northwest
Authors: Lam Tzeng Yih , Maguire Douglas A.
Published: August 2019

Interest in managing Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco) forests in the Pacific Northwest under silvicultural systems other than traditional clearcutting has prompted research on the efficacy of alternative systems for successful regeneration and sustained timber productivity of Douglas-fir. The College of Forestry Integrated Research Project, implemented by Oregon State University, was established to compare various ecosystem responses and public perceptions among treatments implemented under clearcutting, shelterwood-with-reserves, and group selection silvicultural systems. The objective of this analysis was to quantify the following three responses of planted Douglas-fir seedlings to initial regeneration cuts: cumulative 13-year height growth (H13yr; 1992–2004), cumulative 13-year diameter growth (D13yr; 1992–2004), and most recent 5-year height growth (ΔH5yr; 2000–2004). Differences in variability of overstory density at the treatment level led to significant differences in the variance of understory growth responses. After accounting for heterogeneous variance, analysis of variance indicated significant treatment effects for all three responses. Treatment effects were explained by the decline in H13yr, D13yr, and ΔH5yr with increasing overstory competition as represented by basal area of residual trees immediately after harvesting (initial basal area). Predicted height:diameter ratio of Douglas-fir seedlings increased as IBA increased. Under regeneration methods that retain a portion of the overstory, a residual overstory with basal area <80 ft2/ac allows establishment, growth, and continued survival of Douglas-fir regeneration during the 13 years following harvest.
Using Airborne Light Detection and Ranging as a Sampling Tool for Estimating Forest Biomass Resources in the Upper Tanana Valley of Interior Alaska
Authors: Andersen Hans-Erik , Strunk Jacob , Temesgen Hailemariam
Published: August 2019

Airborne laser scanning, collected in a sampling mode, has the potential to be a valuable tool for estimating the biomass resources available to support bioenergy production in rural communities of interior Alaska. In this study, we present a methodology for estimating forest biomass over a 201,226-ha area (of which 163,913 ha are forested) in the upper Tanana valley of interior Alaska using a combination of 79 field plots and high-density airborne light detection and ranging (LiDAR) collected in a sampling mode along 27 single strips (swaths) spaced approximately 2.5 km apart. A model-based approach to estimating total aboveground biomass for the area is presented. Although a design-based sampling approach (based on a probability sample of field plots) would allow for stronger inference, a model-based approach is justified when the cost of obtaining a probability sample is prohibitive. Using a simulation-based approach, the proportion of the variability associated with sampling error and modeling error was assessed. Results indicate that LiDAR sampling can be used to obtain estimates of total biomass with an acceptable level of precision (8.1 ± 0.7 [8%] teragrams [total ± SD]), with sampling error accounting for 58% of the SD of the bootstrap distribution. In addition, we investigated the influence of plot location (i.e., GPS) error, plot size, and field-measured diameter threshold on the variability of the total biomass estimate. We found that using a larger plot (1/30 ha versus 1/59 ha) and a lower diameter threshold (7.6 versus 12.5 cm) significantly reduced the SD of the bootstrap distribution (by approximately 20%), whereas larger plot location error (over a range from 0 to 20 m root mean square error) steadily increased variability at both plot sizes.
Using Nomograms for Evaluating Plant Morphological and Physiological Data
Authors: Haase Diane L.
Published: August 2019

Simple, graphical techniques are available to plant professionals to evaluate morphological and physiological data. The most commonly used graphs show only one variable at a time. However, plotting two variables into a simple coordinate system and adding diagonal lines to show relationships between those two variables greatly enhances the interpretive possibilities available to the plant practitioner by facilitating simultaneous comparisons of multiple variables. This easy-to-use nomogram is useful for evaluating and comparing plant responses to treatments and environments, plant development over time, and stock quality among species, genotypes, and other factors. This article describes how to construct this type of graph, the kind of data for which this technique is most useful, and how it can be applied to operational and research activities.
Distribution of Arsenic in Lodgepole Pines Treated with MSMA
Authors: Maclauchlan L. E. , Borden J. H. , D'Auria J. M.
Published: August 2019

Fifteen mature lodgepole pines, Pinus contorta var. latifolia Engelmann, were treated with either 1/8-, ¼- or ½-strength monosodium methanearsonate (MSMA) applied to axe-frills around the base of the bole. Using X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, we determined the arsenic concentration in the phloem, sapwood, and foliage of MSMA-treated and control trees. The highest accumulation of arsenic was in the phloem, near the point of application, and in the foliage. Residual arsenic concentration in the tissues of treated trees averaged <5 ppm above 2 m for all treatment strengths, a concentration probably too low to kill attacking bark beetles or their brood. In addition, the levels of MSMA in the bole tissues of treated trees is well below the 10% safety limit for sawmills stated by the British Columbia Workman's Compensation Board Industrial Health and Safety Regulations. West. J. Appl. For. 3(2):37-40, April 1988.
Black Bear Damage to Thinned Timber Stands in Northwest Montana
Authors: Mason Andrew C. , Adams David L.
Published: August 2019

Bear damage was at least five times higher in thinned blocks than in adjacent unthinned blocks of western larch (Larix occidentalis), lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta), and Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii) on the Kootenai National Forest in northwest Montana. Western larch suffered the greatest damage (63% of all trees damaged and 92% of the trees killed). Damaged larch ranged from 4 to 13 in. dbh; the 4 to 8-in. dbh class accounted for 85% of the damage. Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), western redcedar (Thuja plicata), subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa), western white pine (Pinus monticola), and western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) were not damaged. Stand projections showed up to a 17% reduction in board-foot yield from bear damage, after 50 years, compared with hypothetical undamaged stands. West. J. Appl. For. 4(1):10-13, January 1989.
Comparison and Development of Height Growth and Site Index urves for Douglas-Fir in the Inland Northwest
Authors: Vander Ploeg James L. , Moore James A.
Published: August 2019

Stem analysis data from Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) collected throughout the inland Northwest were used for testing height growth and site index equations. The equations performed well in northern and central Idaho, northeast Oregon, and northeast Washington on vegetative types similar to those sampled in model development. However, if the equations were applied on drier sites outside the original geographic study area, overestimates of height growth and under-estimates of site index could result. Therefore, revised height growth and site index equations are presented for western Montana and central Washington. West. J. Appl. For. 4(3):85-88, July 1989.
Survival and Growth of Ponderosa Pine and Douglas-Fir Stocktypes on a Dry Low-Elevation Site in Southwest Oregon
Authors: Helgerson Ole T. , Tesch Steven D. , Hobbs Stephen D. , McNabb D. H.
Published: August 2019

Two stocktypes (1 + 0 container-grown plugs and 2 + 0 nursery grown bareroots) of ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) and of Douglas-Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) were planted on a hot, droughty, low-elevation site in southwest Oregon (Interior Valley Zone) to assess the potential for reforesting this type of site. After five growing seasons, bareroots survived (98%) significantly (P < 0.05) better than plugs (89%); survival did not differ significantly by species. Douglas-fir was taller than pine, pine was larger in diameter, and the two species had approximately equal stem volumes. Bareroots were consistently larger than plugs. These species and stocktypes can provide good reforestation after 5 years on an Interior Valley Zone site when seedlings are of good quality, are planted properly, and are given good weed control. West. J. Appl. For. 4(4):124-128, October 1989.
Extending Strategies for Optimal Bucking to Harvesting and Site Preparation
Authors: Olsen Eldon D. , Pilkerton Steve , Garland John J. , Sessions John
Published: August 2019

Optimal bucking strategies can be implemented in the field with powerful handheld computers, not only for matching market needs with logs cut but for addressing other management decisions within the bucking context. Weight limits for various harvesting systems and conditions can be included to assure feasible log sizes. The bucking optimization program can incorporate different cost functions for determining optimal equipment selection for various logging systems. Decisions about which portion of the tree to leave or to remove at harvest time can also be made with the optimal bucking algorithms. Knowledge of the harvesting cost of various levels of slash removal aids in planning slash treatments. West. J. Appl. For. 5(1):12-15.
Controlling Gray Mold on Container-Grown Douglas-Fir by Modified Styroblocks and Under-Bench, Forced Air Ventilation
Authors: Peterson Michael J. , Sutherland Jack R.
Published: August 2019

Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) control on Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) seedlings was investigated using under-bench ventilation and styroblocks (growing containers) modified with vertical ventilation holes to allow air movement through the seedling canopy. Gray mold incidence and severity were reduced in three treatments: modified styroblocks with aeration holes at each intercavity intersection and vented from below with heated forced air, like the preceding treatment, but vented with unheated forced air, and modified styroblocks vented with unheated unforced air. In vented styroblocks, gray mold occurred on 25% of the 7-month-old seedlings compared to greater than 75% incidence in unmodified (control) styroblocks. Disease on individual seedlings was also less severe in ventilated styroblocks. The reduced incidence of gray mold in the treatments with ventilation was attributed to more rapid drying of seedling foliage following irrigation. The lowest incidence of humidity and temperature episodes that were ideal for gray mold spore germination and infection occurred in the canopy of seedlings grown in the unheated forced air ventilation treatment There were no practical differences in seedling heights or root collar diameters among treatments. Use of ventilated styroblocks should significantly reduce both gray mold losses and fungicide usage in nurseries. West. J. Appl. For. 5(3):75-79, July 1990
Pinyon-Juniper Stumpage Values in Northern Arizona
Authors: Fox Bruce
Published: August 2019

Standard stumpage rates for commercial pinyon-juniper fuelwood sales on the national forests in Arizona are set by the USDA Forest Service using a residual value approach model, based on average costs and values for all sales areas. Stumpage values for 120 pinyon-juniper commercial fuelwood cutting units in 18 sale areas for the years 1984-1988 on the Kaibab and Coconino National Forests in northern Arizona were examined. Over time the number of no-bid sales and contract defaults have increased. This suggests that standard rates may be higher than the actual value of the stumpage. Calculated stumpage values for such sales, based on actual roundtrip haul distances and retail sales prices of fuelwood, were generally much lower than standard rates. The standard rate appraisal approach may need to be revised or replaced for sales that do not fit model assumptions. West. J. Appl. For. 5(4):00-00, October 1990.
Yield Comparison of Three Douglas-Fir Plantations on Former Farmland in Western Washington
Authors: Murray Marshall D. , Harrington Constance A.
Published: August 2019

Yields of three Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) plantations on former farmland were substantially greater than DFSIM yields for the plantations based on site index estimates from adjacent natural stands. Volume yield per acre of trees 1.6 in. dbh and larger was 40 to 57% greater in the actual plantations than in the simulations. For trees 7.6 in. dbh and larger, volume yield of the actual plantations was 85 to 151% greater than the simulated yields. Mean annual increment of the actual plantations was 56 to 69% greater than the simulated values. In addition, top height was greater in two of the plantations than predicted. Running a second set of simulations with site index estimates based on plantation trees reduced the discrepancy in yields but still resulted in substantial underpredictions. Some possible reasons for enhanced yield of the plantations on former farmland are greater site uniformity, reduced vegetative competition, and increased nutrient availability. West. J. Appl. For. 5(4):00-00, October 1990.
Colorado Logging Accidents: 1984-1988. Is it Safe in the Woods?
Authors: Longwell Timothy R. , Lynch Dennis L.
Published: August 2019

The number of logging accidents in Colorado during 1984-1988 contributed to escalating workers' compensation rates creating economic stress in the industry. This study was designed to help both industry and agency personnel identify who was having accidents, why accidents were occurring, and how much the accidents cost. The study concluded that 60% of the accidents occurred to persons employed for fewer than 6 months. The jobs with the highest accident frequencies were chainsaw operators (68%), equipment operators (12%), and truck drivers (10%). Timber falling and limbing were the most hazardous activities, with 35% and 23% of the accidents respectively. Falling tops, snags, or dead branches and chainsaw kickback were the leading injury agents in the felling and limbing operation. Use of protective equipment and formal safety training were, for the most part, absent during this period. Medical and compensation costs were not highly correlated with accident severity. Accident costs directly increase harvesting costs and may decrease the amount paid for stumpage. West J. Appl. For. 5(4):00-00.
Survival and Growth of Douglas-Fir Seedlings after Prescribed Burning of a Brushfield in Southwest Oregon1
Authors: Helgerson Ole T. , McNabb David H. , Hobbs Stephen D.
Published: August 2019

The effects of prescribed fire on reforestation were assessed on a north-facing brushfield in southwest Oregon. For site preparation, the brush was slashed and either burned or left unburned. Five years after planting, survival of 2-0 bareroot seedlings of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii) was high, irrespective of treatment, but seedlings were larger and grew significantly faster in burned than in unburned areas. The initially greater annual relative growth rate of seedlings in burned areas declined as brush recovered. Brush recovered at similar rates on burned and unburned areas, but significantly greater brush cover was present on the unburned area because of an extra season's growth before planting. Planting should occur as soon as possible after disturbance by slashing or burning to minimize competition from brush. West. J. Appl. For. 6(3):55-59.
Skills Important to District Rangers in the Southwest
Authors: Rupprecht Katrina L. , Lynch Dennis L.
Published: August 2019

We surveyed district rangers in the Southwest Region (Region 3) of the USDA Forest Service to determine what management skills were most important to them. They were asked to identify skills that are important now and would be important to district rangers in the future. They selected from a list of 20 skills divided equally into technical, administration, communication, and political categories. Five of the skills were identified as most important. Regardless of whether the rangers were grouped by background experience, education, or by district characteristics, their scoring of the skills was substantially similar. West. J. Appl. For. 7(2):51-54.
Winter Segregation by the Sexes of White-Tailed Deer
Authors: Brockmann Stephen P. , Pletscher Daniel H.
Published: August 2019

Winter habitat selection by the sexes of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in west-central Montana was compared. Radio-collared males were concentrated in the eastern 1/3 of the study area, while most females used the western 2/3. The area used by males was at higher elevation, less steep, had less logging, and more trees. Browse plants and twigs were more abundant in the area used by females, but browse use was similar or lower in the area used by males. Our data suggest that males select areas with more dense hiding cover. Where males use areas peripheral to where females winter, dense stands of mature evergreens and adequate hiding cover should be retained adjacent to traditional deer wintering areas. West. J. Appl. For. 8(1):28-33.
Volume Equations for Canyon Live Oak in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California
Authors: Pillsbury Norman H. , Pryor Robert D.
Published: August 2019

Local and standard volume equations were developed for dense stands of canyon live oak (Quercus chrysolepis Liebm.) in the San Bernardino Mountains. The equations were developed in both English and metric units for two utilization standards: total tree volume and wood volume. Seventy-two sample trees were divided into segments for measurement of upper and lower diameters and lengths using a relaskop. Segment volumes were summed to obtain tree volume. Tree volumes were regressed against height and diameter to develop the volume equations. These equations were compared with equations previously developed for canyon live oak sampled throughout its range statewide. An F* test calculation showed a significant difference between the two equations at the 0.99 probability level. The equations developed for this study are better suited for volume estimation of canyon live oak in the San Bernardino Mountains than those previously developed. West. J. Appl. For. 9(2): 00-00.
Effect of Database Length and Weights on Transactions Evidence Timber Appraisal Models
Authors: Niccolucci Michael J. , Schuster Ervin G.
Published: August 2019

Although transaction evidence appraisal (TEA) is used extensively for timber appraisal throughout the West, the effect of database length and weighing of data has been largely ignored. This paper investigates how 1-, 2-, and 3-yr model-building database lengths, with equal, biannual, quarterly, and monthly weighing schemes effect TEA prediction accuracy and responsiveness. Accuracy was measured by the "average absolute error" of predicted stumpage value from actual stumpage value. Visual inspection of the prediction trajectory served to evaluate responsiveness to market changes. Results indicate that quarterly and monthly weighing and 1-yr database length improved statistical prediction accuracy, and 1-yr database length and monthly weighing proved most responsive. West. J. Appl. For. 9(2): 71-76.
Genetic Variation in Incense-Cedar (Calocedrus decurrens): I. Provenance Differences in a Twelve-Year-Old Common-Garden Study
Authors: Rogers Deborah L. , Harry David E. , Libby William J.
Published: August 2019

Results are reported from a provenance study of incense-cedar (Calocedrus decurrens), a tree species native to forested regions of Oregon, California, and Baja California. Seedlings from six geographically distinct regions were measured over a 12 yr period in a common-garden study located near the center of the species' native range. In general, among-region genetic variation was small. However, differences in height, stem volume, and crown form between trees from the southernmost region sampled and trees from the other five study regions were large and significant. Further studies of within-population genetic variation are recommended prior to initiating any tree improvement activities. West. J. Appl. For. 9(4):113-117.
Pressure Injuries in the Pediatric Population: A National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel White Paper
Authors: Delmore Barbara , Deppisch Michelle , Sylvia Cynthia , Luna-Anderson Crystal , Nie Ann Marie
Published: August 2019

Pediatric patients, especially neonates and infants, are vulnerable to pressure injury formation. Clinicians are steadily realizing that, compared with adults and other specific populations, pediatric patients require special consideration, protocols, guidelines, and standardized approaches to pressure injury prevention. This National Pressure Advisory Panel white paper reviews this history and the science of why pediatric patients are vulnerable to pressure injury formation. Successful pediatric pressure injury prevention and treatment can be achieved through the standardized and concentrated efforts of interprofessional teams.

GENERAL PURPOSE

To review what is known about pediatric pressure injuries (PIs) and the specific factors that make neonates and children vulnerable.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES

After participating in this educational activity, the participant should be better able to:

1. Identify the scope of the problem and recall pediatric anatomy and physiology as it relates to PI formation.

2. Differentiate currently available PI risk assessment instruments.

3. Outline current recommendations for pediatric PI prevention and treatment.
Same but Different: Exploring Mechanisms of Learning in a Longitudinal Integrated Clerkship
Authors: Mylopoulos Maria , Kulasegaram Kulamakan (Mahan) , Weyman Karen , Bernstein Stacey , Martimianakis Maria Athina (Tina)
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Longitudinal integrated clerkships (LICs) are a widely used method of delivering clerkship curricula. Although there is evidence that LICs work and core components of LIC training have been identified, there is insufficient understanding of which components are integral to why they work. To address this question, this research explored how students experienced the first year of an LIC program. The aim was to use participants’ understanding of their learning experiences to identify potential mechanisms of the LIC curriculum model.

Method

Thirty-two interviews were conducted with 13 University of Toronto students, 7 LIC and 6 block rotation students from the same site, from October 2014 to September 2015. A thematic analysis was performed iteratively to explore participants’ understanding of their key learning experiences and outcomes.

Results

Participants in both cohorts described their key learning outcome as integration and application of knowledge during patient care. Experiences supporting this outcome were articulated as longitudinal variable practice and continuity of relationships with preceptors and patients. Critically, these experiences manifested differently for the 2 cohorts. For block students, these learning experiences appeared to reflect the informal curriculum, whereas for LIC students, learning experiences were better supported by the LIC formal curriculum.

Conclusions

The results illustrate the importance of learning experiences that support longitudinality and continuity. By also emphasizing variability and knowledge integration, they align with literature on expert development. Notably, many of the learning experiences identified resulted from informal learning and thus support going beyond the formal curriculum when evaluating the effectiveness of curricula.
Integrated treatment of brain metastases
Authors: Rosenfelder Nicola , Brada Michael
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

Optimal treatment of brain metastases has been limited to local treatment with few systemic options. Increasing use of systemic targeted therapies, chemotherapy and immunotherapy and combination of local and systemic treatments has resulted in plethora of publications. We review the existing evidence for individual treatments and new evidence for the integration of systemic and combination of local treatments.

Recent findings

Encouraging efficacy of systemic therapies supports combination of systemic and local treatment albeit with little randomized trial data. Efficacy particularly of targeted agents provides an opportunity to delay local treatments including radiosurgery and whole brain radiotherapy. Randomized trials testing the integration of surgery, radiotherapy and radiosurgery are reviewed with emphasis on patient relevant endpoints to guide the clinician in the choice and sequence of treatments and integrating systemic and local therapies.

There is increasing tendency to use focused radiation for single and oligometastases with or without surgery and decline in whole brain radiotherapy which is limited to multiple metastases in tumours without effective systemic options. Systemic therapies have promising intracranial efficacy and the sequence and combination with localized radiation is awaiting trials. Changes in practice with a move to primary systemic treatment for brain metastases without radiation, should be undertaken with caution and close monitoring.