Chapter 5 - Tree Mortality

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  • Authors: Ambrose, Mark J.
  • Publication Year: 2018
  • Publication Series: Book Chapter
  • Source: In: Potter, Kevin M.; Conkling, Barbara L., eds. 2018. Forest health monitoring: national status, trends, and analysis 2017. General Technical Report SRS-233. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station.

Abstract

Tree mortality is a natural process in all forest ecosystems. High mortality can be an indicator of forest health problems. On a
regional scale, high mortality levels may indicate widespread insect or disease impacts. High mortality may also occur if a large proportion of the forest in a particular region is made up of older, senescent stands. The approach presented here seeks to detect mortality patterns that might reflect changes to ecosystem processes at large scales. However, in many cases, the proximate cause of mortality may be discernable. Understanding proximate causes of mortality may provide insight into whether the mortality is within the range of natural variation or reflects more fundamental changes to ecological processes.

  • Citation: Ambrose, Mark J. 2018. Chapter 5 - Tree Mortality. In: Potter, Kevin M.; Conkling, Barbara L., eds. 2018. Forest health monitoring: national status, trends, and analysis 2017. General Technical  Report SRS-233. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. Pages 85-98
  • Posted Date: June 13, 2018
  • Modified Date: June 13, 2018

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