Growth Trends and Management Implications for West Virginia's Red Spruce Forests

Authors: Hornbeck, James W.; Kochenderfer, James N.

Source: Northern Journal of Applied Forestry, Volume 15, Number 4, 1 December 1998 , pp. 197-202(6)

Publisher: Society of American Foresters

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Abstract:

Growth trends determined from tree rings are reported for red spruce in three mature stands and three plantations in West Virginia. Annual growth rates in mature forests have stabilized after a period of decline that began around 1960 and lasted for 20-25 yr. Annual growth rates in plantations established between 1935 and 1942 show a gradual decline that can be reversed by thinning. Growth rates and stand basal areas suggest that red spruce forests in West Virginia are healthy and can be highly productive. Management options for expanding the area of red spruce forests include harvesting to encourage or release regeneration, and establishment by planting. North. J. Appl. For. 15(4):197-202.

Document Type: Journal article

Affiliations: 1: USDA Forest Service, Northeastern Research Station, P.O. Box 404, Parsons, WV 26287

Publication date: 1998-12-01

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