Year: 1998
Type: article
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.
Authors: James W. Hornbeck, James N. Kochenderfer
Institution: US Forest Service
Language: English
Subfield: Nature and Landscape Conservation
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Life on land
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2969378461