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Stand dynamics of a longleaf pine restoration project

Informally Refereed

Abstract

Ecological restoration in a longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) stand is being studied in the Flomaton Natural Area (FNA) in Escambia County, AL. The FNA had been protected from fire for over 45 years. The absence of fire permitted a hardwood midstory and litter layer to develop at the expense of longleaf pine regeneration and an herbaceous understory. Reintroducing fire posed a problem because of the existing fuel conditions. The stand was burned in 1995, 1996, 1997, 2001, and 2003. Longleaf pine density has decreased while basal area has remained relatively stable during the restoration efforts. The fuel loads are decreasing slowly and despite the heavy litter layer, longleaf pine regeneration has been established.

Parent Publication

Citation

Kush, John S.; Meldahl, Ralph S. 2006. Stand dynamics of a longleaf pine restoration project. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-92. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pp. 90-91
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/23341