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Scientia silvica extension series, no. 45

Forest Sciences Department, University of British Columbia

In the wetter climates associated with the coastal forests of northwestern North America, coarse woody debris (CWD) accumulations in the form of snags, downed boles, and large branches can be large in natural forest ecosystems. Seedlings often regenerate on stumps and downed logs in the understory of old-growth coastal forests. The question remains though, whether CWD is a necessary component for seedling survival and growth in forests managed for commodity production. This study addresses one concern of forest managers: is there an immediate nutritional or moisture supply advantage conferred by CWD for the survival and growth of seedlings in the coastal climate of British Columbia? We compared survival and growth of seedlings planted in decaying wood compared to non-woody humus forms and mineral soil under heavy shade and full light conditions. Low light environments are of particular interest since reports of the strong association between CWD and regeneration has primarily referred to understory seedlings and saplings in old-growth forests.

Seedling survival; Coarse woody debris; Coastal British Columbia; Douglas-fir; Forest floor; Light conditions; Pacific silver fir; Soil nutrients; Western hemlock; Western redcedar

Text

eng

Vancouver : University of British Columbia Library

10.14288/1.0107247

Forestry, Faculty of; Forest Sciences, Department of

Faculty