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Project Title: Impact of Roads on the Sustainability of Northern Forest Lands
Start Date: 10/1/97 End Date: 9/30/01 Researching Institution: University of Vermont Contact Person(s): Hughes, J.W. Phone: 802-656-0708 Fax: Email: jwhughes@zoo.uvm.edu Location Info: VT Agricultural Experimental Station
Abstract: Whether and how roads should be built in forested areas can be controversial because the presence of logging roads in forested areas has direct impacts on the forest ecosystem. For example, the composition of soils near the road may be altered as a result of road building. Also, wildlife may browse these areas more intensely because of the presence of young saplings and open space for foraging. Road construction may provide habitat for non-native species. This study examined how different types of logging roads (roads for hauling and skidding logs) affected the type, diversity, and growth rate of vegetation in the areas bordering the roads in the northern forests. Using these and other variables, researchers were able to determine how far the impacts extended into the forest by making observations at fixed distances from the roads under study. The results from this study can be used to make better decisions concerning how roads and roadsides should be optimally managed.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Effects of Forest Harvest Practices on Amphibians
Start Date: 9/15/98 End Date: 9/30/00 Researching Institution: University of New Hamphire, Natural Resources Contact Person(s): Babbitt, K.J. Phone: 603-862-4287 Fax: 603-862-4976 Email: kbabbitt@christa.unh.edu Location Info: Bartlett Experimental Forest
Abstract: Different timber management techniques (clear cuts, group cuts, single tree selection) affect the forest ecosystem in different ways. This study examined how different cut types affected resident populations of salamanders on the forest floor. In addition, researchers also studied a section of forest that had suffered ice damage in order to compare the effects of a natural disturbance with those caused by different cut techniques. Each of the managed forest plots in this study have different characteristics (amount of canopy cover, number of cover objects on the forest floor, soil properties) due to the different cut techniques or natural disturbances which, in turn, have direct effects on salamander populations. These effects were measured by collecting data on the number, size and weight of salamanders in a given study plot. The study determined that soil temperature and leaf-litter characteristics resulting from different management techniques had the strongest influence on salamander abundance. It was also observed that even-aged harvests (harvests in which the trees felled are roughly the same age) had a greater affect on salamander populations than any other management technique or any damage that might occur from a naturally occurring event, such as an ice storm.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Potential for Ecological Reserves in NH Forests: Soils and Amphibians
Start Date: 7/1/97 End Date: 12/31/00 Researching Institution: University of New Hamphire, Natural Resources Contact Person(s): Babbitt, K.J. Phone: 603-862-4287 Fax: 603-862-4976 Email: kbabbitt@christa.unh.edu Location Info:
Abstract: Salamanders are an important indicator species for forests and forest streams. Indicator species are important because their status (healthy population vs. declining population) provides information on the overall condition of the greater ecosystem. This study examined how different soil properties affected populations of salamanders on the forest floor. Additional research for this project was completed on the effects of predatory fish and physical stream characteristics (pH, temperature, type of stream bottom) on larval salamanders within a forest stream. For adult salamanders living on the forest floor, researchers observed that study plots with a greater number of salamanders also had a higher pH, soil moisture, and number/percent cover of objects on the forest floor compared to those plots without salamanders. Researchers observed that there are far fewer larval salamanders in the stream when predatory fish are present. Furthermore, it was noted that, when predatory fish are present, salamanders prefer a pebbly or course stream bottom over other types.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Production of Maple Syrup for Increased Productivity and Profitability
Start Date: 7/1/97 End Date: 9/30/06 Researching Institution: Cornell University Contact Person(s): Decker, D.J. Phone: 607-255-2224 Fax: 607-255-9499 Email: cuaes@cornell.edu Location Info: Uihlein Sugar Maple Field Station
Abstract: This goal of this study was to evaluate new technologies for improving maple sap production and processing. In order to produce maple syrup, sap is gathered from maple trees by inserting a small spout into the trunk of the tree, which slowly drains into a receptacle. This study compared sap production from the traditional 7/16" spouts with newer, smaller 19/64" spouts and found that there was no significant difference in the amount of sap collected or in sap sugar concentration. In addition, researchers compared the wood discoloration that naturally occurs around the inserted spout and the rate at which the spout hole closes after it is removed for both sizes of spout. The results indicate that there was both less discoloration and a faster spout hole closure rate for the smaller diameter spout (19/64"). In a related study, researchers compared sap production for different categories of trees damaged in the 1998 ice storm. Results indicated that trees that suffered 11-25% damage in the upper reaches (the crown) showed the highest increase in sap volume over the four years of the study.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Ecosystem Effects of Non-Point Pollution on Headwater Streams in Maine
Start Date: 10/1/99 End Date: 9/30/04 Researching Institution: University of Maine Contact Person(s): Huryn, A.D. Phone: 207-581-3006 Fax: 207-581-2969 Email: huryn@maine.edu Location Info: Bear Brook Watershed
Abstract: Higher levels of nitrogen emissions into the atmosphere from human activities (i.e. fossil fuel consumption) have increased the amount of nitrogen returning to the earth’s surface through rainfall. Currently there is not adequate information as to the impacts of atmospheric nitrogen deposition and roadway runoff on stream systems. High levels of nitrogen can affect important processes and functions within a stream, including populations of insect larvae (macroinvertebrates) and the rate of decomposition of fallen leaf litter. For this study, researchers compared a forested study plot that has received nitrogen applications on a long-term basis with a control plot in which no nitrogen was applied. Both of these plots have streams running through them. In the plot where nitrogen was applied to the land surface, there were elevated levels of nitrogen in the water as well. The results from this study indicate that there were a greater number of insect larvae that feed on leaf litter in the stream with the higher concentration of nitrogen than the stream in the control plot. Researchers also observed that the sugar maple, American beech, and red maple trees in the nitrogen amended plot had higher rates of leaf loss and softer leaves than those in the control plot. However, the process of leaf litter decompositions was not heavily impacted by elevated levels of nitrogen because it is speculated that there are other factors within the stream that are limiting the rate of decomposition as well.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Assessing Effects of Silvicultural Practices on Insect Biodiversity in a Northern Conifer Forest
Start Date: 6/1/97 End Date: 9/30/00 Researching Institution: University of Maine Contact Person(s): Woods, S.A. Phone: 207-581-2955 Fax: 207-581-2969 Email: woods@maine.edu Location Info: Penobscot Experimental Forest
Abstract: Insects serve as important indicators of change within a forest community. Specifically, the type and abundance of insect species will change as a result of different forest management practices, such as clearcuts, selection cuts, and shelterwood stands. Investigating these changes can lead researchers to determine the particular factors that are most important to maintaining insect populations and the other wildlife species that are dependant on them. For this study, researchers captured and classified insects (this study focused primarily on various species of Click Beetles) from 13 different forest stands of the three types listed above. In addition, researchers characterized the type and structure of vegetation within the study areas to better understand how the changes in insect habitat resulting from the management practices affected the insect populations. Results indicated that clearcut and selection stands harbored distinct and diverse insect populations, while there was less diversity in the shelterwood stands. It was also noted that there were more insect herbivores (feeds on plant material) recovered from clearcut stands, while selection stands appeared to favor other insect classes, including fungivores (feeds on fugal material), predators, and detritivores (feeds on decaying matter). These results suggest that the insects may be responding to microhabitat features, such as the presence of decaying snags, type, quantity and structure of vegetation. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Genetic Improvement, Propagation, and Agroforestry Applications with Sugar Maple, Acer saccharum
Start Date: 3/30/97 End Date: 9/30/01 Researching Institution: Cornell University Contact Person(s): Krasny, M.E. Phone: 607-255-2827 Fax: 607-255-0349 Email: mek2@cornell.edu Location Info: Uihlein Sugar Maple Field Station
Abstract: This study examined a variety of methods to improve sugar maple sap production for cultivated trees including: (1) genetic selection in order to produce superior strains, (2) improved propagation methods, (3) better control methods for weeds and wildlife browsing, (4) research on factors that contribute to seedling growth, and (5) the development of a method for screening superior lines of sugar maple species. These methods were tested by propagating a variety of sugar maple strains that were then distributed to maple producers throughout the Northeast. Landowners receiving the seedlings were instructed on the various methods mentioned above. The long-term goal of this project is to increase commercial and governmental production of improved sugar maple seedlings in sufficient quantity to meet producer demand.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Accelerating Late-Successional Stand Development in Northern Hardwood-Hemlock Forests: Development of a Restorative Silvicultural System
Start Date: 10/1/01 End Date: 9/30/06 Researching Institution: University of Vermont Contact Person(s): Keeton, W.S. Phone: 802-656-2518 Fax: 802-656-8683 Email: william.keeton@uvm.edu Location Info:
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to assist public and private forest managers in restoring old-growth characteristics for mixed northern hardwood-hemlock forests. Researchers will apply specific treatments to study plots and will test the effects of those treatments by examining characteristics such as overstory structure, species composition, tree regeneration, growth, mortality rates, types of understory plant communities, wildlife habitat characteristics, forest health and above-ground carbon sequestration (the uptake and storage of carbon by trees).
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Influence of Nitrogen Source on Carbon and Nitrogen Processes in Forest Soils
Start Date: 10/1/01 End Date: 9/30/06 Researching Institution: University of Maine Contact Person(s): Dail, D.B. Phone: 207-581-2912 Fax: 207-581-2999 Email: bryan.dail@maine.edu Location Info:
Abstract: Nitrogen is an essential element for growth in plants. Consequently, greater levels of nitrogen compounds released to the atmosphere have direct affects on forest ecosystems. Potential effects of greater nitrogen concentrations include an initial increase in forest growth followed by a stressful period in which trees are relatively lacking in other necessary elements. Soil microbes are partially responsible for regulating the amount of nitrogen that is available to trees. This study will investigate the importance of various nitrogen compounds on microbial processes within the soil, such as the decomposition of leaf-litter and organic materials, in order to better ascertain the effects of increased nitrogen on the forest ecosystem.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Fungal Biology of Fine Root Decomposition in a Northern Hardwood Forest
Start Date: 12/1/00 End Date: 11/30/03 Researching Institution: Cornell University Contact Person(s): Coffman, W.R. Phone: 607-255-2224 Fax: 607-255-9499 Email: ded7@cornell.edu Location Info: Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest
Abstract: In forest communities, soil fungi play an important role in the decomposition of fine plant roots. These organisms are an integral part in the natural cycles of growth and decay, and play an especially important role in the carbon cycle. The goal of this study is to improve the understanding of the role of fungi in the decay process. Specifically, researchers will identify the types of fungi responsible for root decomposition for different root categories and will examine how the type of fungi present change over time as decay proceeds. From this, it is possible to gain a better understanding of how human-caused environmental change (i.e. increased nitrogen deposition) affects fungal communities, and, consequently, forest ecoystem.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: New England Wood Utilization Research
Start Date: 8/15/00 End Date: 8/14/03 Researching Institution: University of Maine Contact Person(s): Shaler, S. M. Phone: 207-581-2886 Fax: 207-581-2074 Email: steve@wood.aewc.umaine.edu Location Info:
Abstract: The purpose of this project is to evaluate current manufacturing processes for wood products in order to determine if there are opportunities to reduce wastes and increase efficiency for both timber harvesting and processing. The development of innovations in this field can reduce manufacturing costs and produce environmental benefits as less damaging processes/products are used. Some of the technical objectives of this project include: (1) investigating the process of oxygen delignification (used to remove lignin, a compound in trees that contributes to rigidity in wood) to produce high quality wood pulp, (2) investigate the use of concrete reinforcements in wood beams over the more environmentally-toxic plastic reinforcements (FRP-glulam), (3) research issues facing loggers that affect their business operations, (4) research chemical components in biodegradable wood products, (5) develop a wood-plastic component that uses a northeastern tree species in order to introduce this technology into the region, (6) research the loss of volatile organic compounds from certain chemical compounds in the drying of certain species of trees, (7) understand the role of certain enzymes in the degradation of wood by brown rot fungi, and (8) evaluate the effect of uneven drying rates on the degree of warping in SPF dimension lumber.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Efficient Methods of Assessing Coarse Woody Material in Forest Ecosystems
Start Date: 9/1/00 End Date: 8/31/03 Researching Institution: University of New Hampshire Contact Person(s): Ducey, M. Phone: 603-862-4429 Fax: 603-862-4976 Email: mjducey@cisunix.unh.edu Location Info:
Abstract: Coarse woody material (CWM) consists of snags, fallen logs, wind-blown trees and large branches. Through the process of decomposition, coarse woody material returns nutrients to the soil that were absorbed when it once was a part of a live tree. CWM also provides habitat for forest animals and is a food source for insects and other invertebrates. The goal of this study is to evaluate different field methods used to assess the number, sizes and total volume of downed CWM. Using established experimental plots, researchers will study the relationship between the abundance of CWM and the management history of a particular plot. In addition, software for analyzing CWM data will be developed and made freely available. The results of this study will be presented at a continuing education workshop for foresters and other natural resource professionals.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Using Tree-Ring Analysis to Understand the Onset and Progression of Forest Tree Decline
Start Date: 7/1/00 End Date: 6/30/05 Researching Institution: Pennsylvania State University Contact Person(s): Davis, D.D. Phone: 814-865-1689 Fax: 814-863-7217 Email: ddd2@psu.edu Location Info:
Abstract: Trees grow in diameter by producing new wood in the layer just beneath their bark. This growth produces rings, which are used to the tree’s age. In addition, growth rings can indicate other information about the tree’s environment, including the influence of particular stressors, such as the presence of disease or high levels of ozone. This purpose of this study is to investigate how stressors affect growth rings so that researchers may better understand the initiation and process of decline in various tree species. Researchers will use growth ring data from earlier studies on tree species in order to define general indicators of decline for forested ecosystems.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Character Wood Furniture – Opportunities for Building a Rural Business Community
Start Date: 9/15/99 End Date: 9/30/02 Researching Institution: Small Business Grant Contact Person(s): Parsons, J.C. Phone: 802-985-2913 Fax: 802-985-2913 Email: info@beekenparsons.com Location Info:
Abstract: Low value wood is any harvested wood that has structural or aesthetic properties that make it unsuitable for use in high value production processes, such as furniture manufacturing. A large percentage of opportunity hardwood is classified as low value because of naturally occurring features, such as knots and coloration. The goal of this study is to evaluate the potential of using such character wood in the production of high value furniture, in order to assist local communities in reaping additional economic returns from this type of wood. A previous study has identified a broad market potential for fine furniture made with character wood. For this project, researchers will explore ways in which communities can adapt their manufacturing processes and marketing strategies to retain the additional value created by character wood.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Silvicultural Techniques for the Improvement of Quality and Health of Maine Hardwoods
Start Date: 10/1/99 End Date: 9/30/04 Researching Institution: University of Maine Contact Person(s): Ostrofsky, W.D. Phone: 207-581-2877 Fax: 207-581-2833 Email: ostrofsk@umenfa.maine.edu Location Info:
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to assess whether the use of particular silvicultural practices will lead to an overall improvement of the health and timber quality of northern hardwoods. There are three main objectives of this study: (1) to develop better methods for earlier selection of potentially high value trees for harvest, (2) to develop recommendations for improving species composition in stands damaged by Beech Bark Disease, and (3) to assess which types of selective harvesting techniques minimizes damage to residual trees.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Measuring Stocking and Structure in New Hampshire Forests
Start Date: 10/1/01 End Date: 9/30/04 Researching Institution: University of New Hampshire Contact Person(s): Ducey, M.J. Phone: 603-862-4429 Fax: 603-862-4976 Email: mjducey@cisunix.unh.edu Location Info:
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to explore the relationships between various measures used for determining forest stocking and structure. Stocking is a measurement that refers to the number of trees required to fully use the growth potential of the land. Structure refers to the specific physical characteristics of a stand of trees, including distribution of species, spatial patterns, size of trees or tree parts, tree age, etc. From these base measures, other descriptors, such as relative density, are then derived to pro- vide information in a useful format. The results of the project will be helpful in predicting growth and yield of forest stands and will be incorporated into practical tools for field managers.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Management of Wildlife Damage in Suburban and Rural Landscapes
Start Date: 10/1/01 End Date: 9/30/06 Researching Institution: Cornell University Contact Person(s): Decker, D.J. Phone: 607-255-2224 Fax: 607-255-9499 Email: cuaes@cornell.edu Location Info:
Abstract: For many suburban and rural communities, white-tailed deer and Canadian geese are considered nuisance species because they damage property and crops. The purposes of this study are to (1) assess community’s perceptions of the damage caused by these species, (2) evaluate new techniques for determining both wildlife abundance and extent of damage, and (3) test new ways of reducing the economic impacts from the wildlife damage.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Assessing On-the-Ground Progress of Ecosystem Management Projects
Start Date: 10/1/00 End Date: 9/30/02 Researching Institution: University of Michigan Contact Person(s): Logan, M.L. Phone: 734-764-3545 Fax: 734-763-8965 Email: mlogan@umich.edu Location Info:
Abstract: Ecosystem management is an ecological approach to natural resource management to assure productive, healthy ecosystems by blending social, economic, physical, and biological needs and values. The goal of this project is to evaluate the success and outcomes of ecosystem management projects and to develop hypothesis about the factors that contribute to the success of projects in general. Two projects will be selected as case studies to investigate this approach on the site-level. In evaluating a project’s success, three sets of indicators will be used: (1) biological conditions and changes (e.g. an increase in the amount of submerged aquatic vegetation), (2) community-level conditions and changes (e.g. levels of social conflict and unemployment); and decision-making process outcomes (e.g. increased cooperation between stakeholders). This information will be used to further develop hypotheses about how social and biological factors are interrelated. Prior research has suggested that there are indeed connections between these factors. Specifically, it has been documented that the development of trust between the individuals involved on a project can help bring the project to fruition, thereby setting the stage for on-the-ground ecological outcomes.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Influence of Structural Heterogeneity on Biodiversity within Northern Hardwood Stands
Start Date: 9/1/98 End Date: 9/30/01 Researching Institution: State University of New York Contact Person(s): Leopold, D. Phone: 315-470-6784 Fax: 315-470-6934 Email: dendro@mailbox.syr.edu Location Info: Huntington Wildlife Forest
Abstract: Forested stands differ from place to place in a number of ways, including, type of trees present, age of trees, range of sizes, etc. The type of physical or temporal variations between stands is a concept that is commonly referred to in the scientific literature as structural heterogeneity. The purpose of this study is to assess how differences in structural heterogeneity in three types of stands (old-growth, managed, and maturing stands) affect the diversity of vegetation and fungi on and around the bases of trees. A secondary goal of this project is to determine how well these associated plants and fungi recover from or adjust to changing environmental conditions resulting from particular forest management practices.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Boundaries, Institutional Arrangements, and Protection of the Northern Forest of New England
Start Date: 10/1/98 End Date: 9/30/01 Researching Institution: University of Vermont Contact Person(s): Ginger, C. Phone: 802-656-2698 Fax: Email: cginger@snr.uvm.edu Location Info:
Abstract: There are many different agencies and organizations in New England that are involved in planning and conservation efforts for the Northern Forest. However, developing policies that will govern the use of our North Eastern forests is inherently complex because the effort must transcend many different kinds of boundaries that exist in the region. These boundaries include divisions between states, properties, agencies, and natural systems, such as watersheds. The purpose of this project was to analyze how these boundaries are dealt with in the planning process. Case studies provided lessons about collaboration and conflict between organized interests, about connections between ecology and property concepts, and about concepts of working landscapes and communities. This study also provided insights into the fragmented nature of planning processes and the implications for future management efforts.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Silvicultural Techniques for the Improvement of Timber Quality and Forest Health
Start Date: 10/1/97 End Date: 9/30/02 Researching Institution: University of Maine Contact Person(s): Ostrofsky Phone: 207-581-2877 Fax: 207-581-2833 Email: ostrofsk@umenfa.maine.edu Location Info:
Abstract: Thinning within a stand of trees refers to the partial removal of trees from a stand in order to allow more room for the remaining trees to grow. Sometimes it is necessary to remove trees that have been killed as a result of a disease or pest, such as the Beech Bark Disease, which is common in the northern forest. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of different thinning techniques on the health of the remaining trees. Specifically, this study will evaluate herbicide options, the application of supplemental materials to the soil, and the mechanical removal of trees in the context of how well the remaining trees regenerate from the disease. Another objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of using heat to treat diseased stems.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Forest Ecosystem Management and the Valuation of Non-market Resources
Start Date: 7/1/96 End Date: 9/30/00 Researching Institution: University of Maine Contact Person(s): Plantinga, A.J. Phone: 541-737-1423 Fax: 541-737-2563 Email: Plantinga@orst.edu Location Info:
Abstract: The broad goal of this study was to better understand the values and costs associated with land use decisions, such as recreational uses and forest management practices, in order to better inform the development of sound land use policies. The objectives of this project were: (1) researching economic aspects of land use decisions in different parts of the country, (2) understanding how forest management strategies impact global warming, (3) researching forest management strategies in the context of an uncertain market economy, (4) researching how environmental regulations affect unemployment rates in the wood products industry, and (5) developing models of the relationship between recreational fishing demand and fishing regulations.
Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> |
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