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Project Title: Development and Integration of Entomopathogens into Pest Management Systems Start Date: 10/1/95 End Date: 9/30/00 Researching Institution: Cornell University Contact Person(s): Hajek, A. Phone: 607-254-4902 Fax: 607-255-0939 Email: aeh4@cornell.edu Location Info: Abstract: Entomopathogens are organisms such as fungi, bacteria or viruses, that cause disease in insects. Some of these species are presently being developed for use in integrated pest management (IPM). IPM is a pest-management strategy that seeks to minimize impacts to the environment and humans by utilizing a combination of mechanical, biological, and chemical controls. The goal of this study was to evaluate the success of using different entomopathogens in IPM systems. Specifically, researchers assessed the effects of entomopathogens on key target species, such as the Gypsy Moth, the forest tent caterpillar, and several species of aphids and mites. Researchers also studied how environmental conditions affected the survivorship and performance of the entomopathogenic species. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Physical and Chemical Environmental Gradients in Forest Canopies Start Date: 10/1/93 End Date: 9/30/98 Researching Institution: University of Vermont Contact Person(s): Scherbatskoy, T. Phone: 802-656-8336 Fax: Email: tscherba@zoo.uvm.edu Location Info: Abstract: There are a number of different predictions within the scientific community as to how changing climatic conditions will affect natural ecosystems around the world. The goal of the study was to provide data on the atmospheric, meteorological, and soil conditions within a forest community and to characterize the variation found within different zones (ranging from subsurface to the forest canopy). This data can then be used in future studies to determine the effects of climate and soil temperature on forest growth. For this project, researchers collected data on ozone concentrations, temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, surface wetness, canopy structure and other properties. Some of the results from this study indicate that a loss of snow cover and subsequent cold periods could increase freezing stress to tree roots. In addition, researchers found that the foliage in the upper canopy is exposed to greater concentrations of ozone than in the lower canopy. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Stand Structure, Composition, and Biodiversity in Wooded Wetlands that Include Northern White Cedar Start Date: 10/1/93 End Date: 6/30/99 Researching Institution: University of Vermont Contact Person(s): Hannah, P.R. Phone: 207-563-8300 Fax: Email: Peter.Hannah@uvm.edu Location Info: Abstract: The goal of this study was to quantify various physical and ecological characteristics associated with wooded wetlands that include Northern White cedar. Specifically, researchers measured stand composition and density, age structure, and other conditions including descriptions of soils and wildlife activity. The study included 16 sites that contained Northern white cedar. Each site fell into one of three site categories: (1) moderately wet sites, (2) wet sites, and (3) swamp-bog sites. Across all site categories, researchers determined that it takes 20-55 years for a Northern White cedar to reach a height of 20 ft. Researchers also observed that browsing by deer has a major impact on developing cedar stands. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Northern New England Product Development and Marketing Center Start Date: 9/1/94 End Date: 8/31/97 Researching Institution: University of Maine Contact Person(s): Wiersma, G.B., Kezis A., Rice, R. Phone: 207-58l-3202 Fax: 207-581-4257 Email: Wiersma@maine.edu Location Info: Abstract: The goals of this study were to (1) increase both domestic and international market opportunities for Northern New England food and forest products, (2) develop new and innovative marketable food and forest products, and (3) enhance marketing and merchandising skills of producers and marketers so that they may take advantage of developing marketing opportunities. Market research, consumer studies, and product development have been conducted for this project, including a study of distribution systems for forest products in Europe, an examination of the marketing potential for ginsenosidesin ginseng grown in Maine, and a feasibility study of a centralized marketing facility for Maine's agricultural industries. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Potential Impacts of Forest Management on Ecosystem Carbon Cycling in Mixed Conifer Stands at Penobscot Experimental Forest Start Date: 10/1/96 End Date: 9/30/00 Researching Institution: University of Maine Contact Person(s): Cronan, C.S. Phone: 207-581-3236 Fax: 207-581-4257 Email: chris_cronan@voyager.umeres.maine.edu Location Info: Penobscot Experimental Forest Abstract: This project is part of a larger, long-term study by the University of Maine to investigate the impacts of different forest management practices on the structure, composition and function of forest ecosystems. The focus of this project is on understanding carbon cycling and carbon budgets for managed conifer stands. Carbon cycling refers to the flow of carbon within a given area as it is utilized by natural processes such as new plant growth and soil decomposition. A carbon budget is the net amount of carbon leaving or entering the system (in this case, a study plot) as a result of the sum total of processes such as soil runoff and leaf litter decomposition. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Comparative Revegetation Dynamics in Gradual and Sudden Forest Canopy Gaps Start Date: 10/1/92 End Date: 9/30/97 Researching Institution: Cornell University Contact Person(s): Krasny, M.E.; Hajek, A. Phone: 607-255-2827 Fax: 607-255-0349 Email: mek2@cornell.edu Location Info: Abstract: In forests that are subject to disease stress (i.e. Beech Bark Disease), diseased trees die slowly or remain standing after dying. The goal of this study was to better understand how the natural process of revegetation occurs in diseased or declining stands. A specific objective was to determine the rate of formation and closure of gaps in the canopy for these stands. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Disturbance, Climate and Forest Stand Development Start Date: 10/1/97 End Date: 9/30/02 Researching Institution: University of Maine Contact Person(s): White, A.S. Phone: 207-581-2851 Fax: Email: white@umenfa.maine.edu Location Info: Abstract: Natural and man-made disturbances, such as changing land-use patterns and climatic change, directly impact the structure and composition of forested ecosystems. The goal of this study is to better understand how these disturbances affect various types of forests, including old-growth stands, second-growth stands, and stands in which the tree species are at the border of their geographical range. Researchers used a combination of methods to determine (1) how past disturbances affected the structure of old-growth stands, (2) the effect of land use history on composition and structure of second-growth stands, and (3) the influence of climate and disturbances on growth and age structure of species at their northern or southern range limits. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: The National Atmospheric Deposition Program -- A Long-Term Monitoring Program in Support of Research on Effect Start Date: 10/1/92 End Date: 9/30/97 Researching Institution: University of Vermont Contact Person(s): Perkins, T.D. Phone: 802-899-9926 Fax: 802-899-5007 Email: tperkins@zoo.uvm.edu Location Info: Mt. Ascutney Abstract: The goal of the National Atmospheric Deposition Program is to research the effects of atmospheric deposition of nutrients from man-made sources and changing climatic conditions on both natural and managed ecosystems. This objectives of this program were addressed by this project in the following ways: (1) a continuation of a monitoring program on pollution, meteorological conditions and forest health in northern Vermont, (2) further development and testing of pollution monitoring equipment for use in remote forest sites, (3) research on the effects of acidic deposition on forested ecosystems, and (4) continuation of a service program that provides information on pollutants and their effects to both public and private sectors. Some of the results from this study indicate that stands of red spruce that received nutrient additions had higher mortality, winter injury, and decreased growth than those plots that received no treatment. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Genetic Diversity and Fitness in Eastern Forest Tree Species Start Date: 8/1/92 End Date: 7/31/98 Researching Institution: University of Vermont Contact Person(s): DeHayes, D.H.; Hawley, G.J. Phone: 802-656-4280 Fax: Email: ddehayes@zoo.uvm.edu Location Info: Abstract: The overall goal of this project was to increase the understanding of the role of genetics in conservation biology of woody plants. The first objective was to examine the relationship between the genetic stock of tree species in their central geographic range with those on the margins of the range. Researchers found that small, isolated populations were genetically different from the central populations. Because these populations may be uniquely adapted to different conditions, some may have unique value for use in future conservation efforts. In a second study, researchers found that there was significant genetic variability and a low degree of inbreeding in a large pitch pine stand in Vermont. This led researchers to suggest using the seedlings from this same stand instead of ones from central populations when planting new trees in the area. Lastly, researchers investigated the degree of hybridization, or cross-breeding, between species of black and red spruce in their northern range (VT). The results indicate that there is some degree of hybridization at low elevations, but at higher elevations hybrid species do not appear to be competitive with the distinct species of black and red spruce. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Northern Forest Resource Inventory Start Date: 10/1/91 End Date: 3/31/92 Researching Institution: State University of New York Contact Person(s): Herrington, L. Phone: 315-470-6674 Fax: 315-470-6535 Email: lpherrin@syr.edu Location Info: Abstract: The goal of this project was to gain a better understanding of the resources of the northern forest lands in New York State. The three components of this project included (1) production of a base map, (2) production of a Resource Inventory Overview which includes natural characteristics, recreation opportunities and large private and public land ownership boundaries in the study area, and (3)detailed inventory of research features with emphasis on productive forest land, natural areas, and large contiguous blocks of forested land. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Transborder Forestry Relations: A Bioregional Approach to Sustainable Communities Start Date: 10/1/01 End Date: 9/30/04 Researching Institution: University of New Hampshire Contact Person(s): Howard, T.E.; Straussfogel, D.L. Phone: 603-862-2398 Fax: Email: tehoward@christa.unh.edu Location Info: Abstract: The goal of this project is to better understand the dependency of rural communities in northern New England and southern Quebec on the forest resources of the region, as well as how that dependency impacts the wood products trade, interactions between these communities, and the forest resource itself. Researchers will use a bioregional approach to understanding these dimensions, which involves defining geographic areas for study based on natural, social, and ecological considerations. Specific objectives of this project are to (1) determine the level of dependency of rural communities on the forestry sector in the study region, (2) determine the patterns, extent, and trends of the forestry sector's relationships with forest resources and forest markets within and outside the region, and (3) develop a set of accessible, Internet-based tools for use by communities and others to assess these dimensions of dependency. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Long-Term Ecological Research at Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest Start Date: 7/1/90 End Date: 9/30/04 Researching Institution: Cornell University Contact Person(s): Fahey, T.J. Phone: 607-255-5470 Fax: 607-255-0349 Email: tjf5@cornell.edu Location Info: Abstract: The goal of this project is to better understand how large-scale disturbances (i.e. ice storms) affect northern hardwood ecosystems. Using both control and manipulated watersheds, researchers will investigate and monitor how such disturbances affect the following: vegetation structure, composition, and productivity; the decomposition and cycling of dead organic matter; and chemical interactions between the air, soil and water. Using data from these studies in conjunction with geographic information and remote sensing systems, researchers will develop models of ecosystem processes at different scales in order to guide future forest management activities. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Climate Change and Tree Ranges: Ecological Studies in Northern New England Start Date: 8/23/95 End Date: 6/30/98 Researching Institution: University of New Hampshire Contact Person(s): Lee, T.D.; Barrett, J.P Phone: 603-862-3791 Fax: Email: tdl@hopper.unh.edu Location Info: Abstract: Global climate change directly affects the distribution of tree species worldwide. This study helped to determine the stability of the current geographical range limits for species of sugar maple, American beech, red spruce and balsam fir. First, researchers investigated the species composition on a test plot for these species just beyond the margin of their elevation range. Next, they collected data on the composition of seeds dispersed and new seedlings in the same area. Using this data, researchers were able to determine the degree to which the migration of these species is limited in these regions. Results indicate that the potential migration of sugar maple was most limited by the type of substrate (soil material) and soil properties, when compared to the other species. Researchers found that the red spruce, balsam fir, and yellow birch were less sensitive to these factors. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Efficient Use of the Northern Forest Resource Start Date: Not available End Date: Not available Researching Institution: USFS Northeastern Research Station Contact Person(s): Baumgras, John Phone: 304-431-2701 Fax: Email: jbaumgras@fs.fed.us Location Info: Abstract: There are a number of different research initiatives that are a part of this project. A general overview of the mission and objectives of this research unit can be found below. Please refer to the website (see source at bottom of abstract) or contact the lead researcher (contact person) for more information. Mission The work unit's mission is to promote natural resource conservation and help sustain forest-based industries and economies through research and development on resource characteristics, forest management practices, and innovative processing technologies and their influence on conversion efficiency in solid wood processing. Research and Development The unit works to develop more effective production control methods and computer software that enable the forest industry to more efficiently utilize the hardwood resource. More efficient use of wood resources can help forest industries meet the growing demand for wood products, while curbing the growth rate in demand for timber. (source: http://www.fs.fed.us/ne/princeton/ne4801.html) Source: USFS website <http://www.fs.fed.us/ne/princeton/ne4701.html> Project Title: Economics of Eastern Forest Use Start Date: Not available End Date: Not available Researching Institution: USFS Northeastern Research Station Contact Person(s): Hansen, Bruce Phone: 304-431-2739 Fax: Email: bghansen@fs.fed.us Location Info: Abstract: There are a number of different research initiatives that are a part of this project. A general overview of the mission and objectives of this research unit can be found below. Please refer to the website (see source at bottom of abstract) or contact the lead researcher (contact person) for more information. Background Information is needed on demand for hardwood roundwood and on the principal consumers (domestic and foreign) of hardwood lumber and wood fiber on a continuing basis. Research is needed on viable, market-based, value-added opportunities that improve use to the forest resource, enhance achievement of sustainable resource management, and/or sustain rural communities. Mission The work unit's mission is to develop annual estimates of primary and secondary hardwood product production and consumption; identify and analyze economic and other factors or events that are likely to significantly alter wood production and consumption patterns and future trends; and to examine and analyze alternatives (opportunities) for extending and conserving the hardwood resource and improving the efficacy of hardwood forest management, utilization, and rural develop initiatives. Research and Development Reducing inefficiency and waste in the allocation of timber and other vital and scarce resources can help us to get more of the products we need today while sustaining the forest resource for future generations. Development of new market-based, value-added products will be directed at improving the use of forest resources, helping to achieve resource management objectives, and/or sustaining rural communities. Research in this area may be product, process, site and/or market specific. Taken collectively, research in this area will be of benefit to resource managers, to those living in rural America, and to U.S. manufacturers. (source: http://www.fs.fed.us/ne/princeton/ne4803.html). Source: USFS website <http://www.fs.fed.us/ne/princeton/ne4803.html> Project Title: The Relationships Between Forest Product Markets and the Composition, Structure, and Sustainability of the Eastern Hardwood Resource Start Date: Not available End Date: Not available Researching Institution: USFS Northeastern Research Station Contact Person(s): Luppold, William Phone: 304-431-2770 Fax: Email: wluppold@fs.fed.us Location Info: Abstract: There are a number of different research initiatives that are a part of this project. A general overview of the mission and objectives of this research unit can be found below. Please refer to the website (see source at bottom of abstract) or contact the lead researcher (contact person) for more information. Introduction The eastern hardwood resource that exists today is largely the result of past human disturbances in combination with the natural agents including climate, fire, and animal populations. Prior to the 17th century most human disturbance was confined to land clearing for agriculture. Although the amount of human disturbance increased in the colonial and post colonial periods, most of this disturbance was confined to lower elevations or areas near rivers. Still, specific species were harvested at higher rates because of useful characteristics. These included cabinet woods such as black walnut and black cherry, and white oak which was used for ship construction and barrel making. Research This unit examines changes in the composition and structure of the eastern hardwood resource over the last 50 years and the interrelationship of this resource to the primary hardwood processing industries. This area of analysis utilizes a variety of economic constructs including production economics, theory of industrial organization, and other economic sub-disciplines as merited. The unit will also develop a theory of market-based disturbance for the evaluation of hardwood resource sustainability and the sustainability of the industries and communities dependent on the resource (source: http://www.fs.fed.us/ne/princeton/ne4805.html). Source: USFS website <http://www.fs.fed.us/ne/princeton/ne4805.html> Project Title: Landscape Features Affecting Dispersal Among Fragmented Populations of New England Cottontails Start Date: 10/1/01 End Date: 9/30/04 Researching Institution: University of New Hampshire Contact Person(s): Litvaitis, J.A. Phone: 603-862-2094 Fax: Email: john@christa.unh.edu Location Info: Abstract: Expanding suburban and urban developments have fragmented natural habitats and wildlife populations. The goal of this project is to better understand how various land uses affect the long-term survival of wildlife populations. Researches will attach micro-transmitters to sample populations of New England cottontail rabbits in habitats that have been fragmented by development. In addition, genetic information will be gathered on organisms in these same areas. Using both geographical and genetic information, researchers will then be able to investigate how landscape features affect the frequency of dispersal and distance traveled by New England cottontails. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Genetic Manipulation of Forest Trees to Alter Stress Response Start Date: 7/1/00 End Date: 9/30/03 Researching Institution: University of New Hampshire Contact Person(s): Minocha, S.C. Phone: 603-862-3840 Fax: 603-862-3784 Email: sminocha@christa.unh.edu Location Info: Abstract: Plants face a variety of stresses at different stages of their life, however, some plants are more tolerant to particular types of stress than others. For this project, researchers will produce new strains of plants through genetic manipulation and test the tolerance of these new species by subjecting them to different stressors. This research will help determine whether genetic manipulation is a effective strategy in creating more tolerant plants and will also lead to a better understanding of the physiology and molecular biology of stress tolerance in plants. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov> Project Title: Maintaining Biological Diversity in Managed Landscapes Start Date: 10/1/94 End Date: 9/30/00 Researching Institution: University of Maine Contact Person(s): Hunter, M. Phone: 207-581-2865 Fax: Email: hunter@umenfa.maine.edu Location Info: Abstract: Riparian areas (areas immediately adjacent to streams) are important to ecosystem health because they provide habitat for a broad array of species and are critical to maintaining stream water quality. In most states, there are specific regulations that govern timber management and development in riparian areas, however, it is unclear whether the regulations are sufficient to adequately protect biodiversity and water quality. For this project, researchers will examine how varying widths of vegetative zones (buffers) in the riparian area affect wildlife populations contained within them. Data will be collected on populations of amphibians because they are particularly sensitive to local environmental conditions. Researchers will also determine how different land management practices (clearcut, partially harvested lands) on lands adjacent to the riparian zones affect amphibian populations. Source: Current Research Information System <http://cris.csrees.usda.gov>

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