Salamanders occur in lower densities in forest stands that have been recently clearcut.
However, few studies have addressed the effects of other timber harvesting practices on terrestrial salamanders. The size and type of timber harvest produce different effects on wildlife habitat, and may influence salamander populations differently. This project compares several economically viable methods of forest management. For the past three years, we have monitored the effects of 7 different oak regeneration techniques at 6 sites in Virginia and West Virginia. Preliminary results from one harvested site indicate a decline in relative abundance of salamanders on plots with any disturbance to the forest canopy.