Effects of Soil Compaction on Tree Volume in a California Ponderosa Pine Plantation

Authors: Helms, John A.¹; Hipkin, C.¹

Source: Western Journal of Applied Forestry, Volume 1, Number 4, 1 October 1986 , pp. 121-124(4)

Publisher: Society of American Foresters

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Abstract:

Soil bulk density was measured around 423 trees (0.48 ha) in a 16-year-old ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) plantation in the Sierra Nevada of California. A landing, skid trail, and areas adjacent to skid trails had soil bulk density increased by 43, 30, and 18% compared to areas with lowest bulk density. Due to differences in mean tree volume and initial survival, volume per unit area in these three locations was reduced by 69, 55, and 13%. Areas between skid trails were relatively unaffected. Assuming full stocking, reduction in productivity by age 40 yr in the most heavily compacted areas is equivalent to about one site index class. Further reduction in projected volume on highly compacted areas could occur due to lower initial survival. Alternative approaches to skid trail management are suggested. West. J. Appl. For. 1:121:124, Oct. 1986.

Document Type: Journal article

Affiliations: 1: Department of Forestry and Resource Management, University of California, Berkeley

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