Skip to main content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Move over, Douglas-fir: Oregon white oaks need room to grow.

Informally Refereed

Abstract

Oregon white oak savanna and woodland habitat in the Pacific Northwest has declined to less than 10 percent of its former range, and much of what remains is of poor quality. In addition to urbanization and agricultural development, habitat is being lost to conifers that have invaded oak areas, which were once maintained through frequent burning by Native Americans. The conifers eventually overtop and kill the shade-intolerant oaks. Many landowners, conservation groups, and public agencies are interested in restoring the cultural legacy and biodiversity associated with oak habitat. Until recently, however, there has been little specific information available on the effects of management practices to guide their actions.

Keywords

Douglas-fir, Oregon white oaks, releasing oaks, Quercus garryana

Citation

Thompson, J. 2007. Move over, Douglas-fir: Oregon white oaks need room to grow. Science Findings 98. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 6 p.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/29136