These DFR sites are but a few of the many study locations across the South. Growth and yield models for natural hardwoods on 9 site types were developed and published in 1982. Data is still being collected at 5-year intervals with an intent by the coop to update the models at some point. Thirty-eight mother trees from across NC are represented in this seed source study. Originally 3 locations were installed but only the McDowell County site is presently active.
Differences are greatest among individual mother trees.
Physiographic differences are not well defined. Sweetgum along with sycamore are the most likely species in the South to be developed for clonal forestry. This work will form the basis of improved seed through parent tree selection, breeding and seed production scale-up, and serve as a source for the selection, testing and propagation of clonal material. A major effort to finish graft transplant and upgrade orchard maintence is underway. About 106 grafts were transplanted.