Treesearch

We update and expand the 1992 survey of research findings by Lowell and colleagues, providing an ecological context for the findings, using a more reader-friendly format, and including extensive citations so readers can get indepth information on particular topics. Our intent is that managers will use this report as a desktop reference and field guide. The worksheet can be copied and taken to the field, as a reminder of key indicators to look for and key questions to ask. With a visual assessment process, potential volume and value losses associated with disturbance can be estimated for...

This report highlights key findings from the most recent (2002-2006) data collected by the Forest Inventory and Analysis Program across all ownerships in Washington. We present basic resource information such as forest area, land use change, ownership, volume, biomass, and carbon sequestration; structure and function topics such as biodiversity, older forests, dead wood, and riparian forests; disturbance topics such as insects and diseases, fire, invasive plants, and air pollution; and information about the forest products industry in Washington, including data on tree growth and mortality,...

This chapter assesses technologies that might be useful for utilization of saltcedar and Russian olive trees as biomass. These are invasive species that are being targeted for eradication by the Bureau of Reclamation under federal legislation passed in 2007. One option is to utilize the biomass from stems and branches, and possibly even from roots and foliage, recovered during eradication projects. The chapter outlines technologies available for harvesting and collecting the biomass for transportation to biomass processing facilities. It also considers possible solid and composite wood...

Edge-glued panels could become a natural extension for the birch (Betula papyrifera Marsh.) lumber industry in Alaska, resulting in greater utilization of the birch resource while allowing producers to explore a wider variety of products and markets. Key advantages of edge-glued panel production include the relatively low cost of equipment, the potential use of smaller diameter stems and less valuable grades of lumber, flexibility in panel product sizes, and opportunities to sell products within established local markets. This paper has reviewed practical considerations for wood products...

This report is an update of the original publication by Oregon State University in 1987 (Resource Bulletin 60). According to agreements, researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station and the Juneau Economic Development Council worked with Oregon State University to update this reference concerning wood energy properties. The fuelwood characteristics were reformatted and presented in tabular form, and a literature review was conducted to check for additional information published since 1987. This report provides fuelwood values for 34...

In Alaska, red alder (Alnus rubra Bong.) and paper birch (Betula papyrifera Marsh.) are both lesser-known hardwoods grown, harvested, and manufactured into appearance products, with potential for increased utilization. The production of edgeglued panels from red alder and paper birch offers one expansion opportunity for wood products producers. For this expansion to happen, retail managers’ attitudes and preferences need to be understood and cultivated, as they represent an important link in the supply chain. In this research project, 11 edge-glued panels were prepared from Alaska red...

On May 18, 1980, after two months of tremors, Mount St. Helens erupted spectacularly and profoundly changed a vast area surrounding the volcano. The north slope of the mountain catastrophically failed, forming the largest landslide witnessed in modern times. The largest lobe of this debris avalanche raced 14 miles down the Toutle River valley, filling it to an average depth of 150 feet. The landslide unleashed hurricane-force winds of hot gases filled with rocks that toppled 143 square miles of trees. Farther away, 42 square miles of trees were killed by the heat of the blast but left...

The extent of oak woodland and savanna habitat in the Pacific Northwest has been dramatically reduced since settlement in the mid-1800s. This report presents a practical guide for landowners and managers who are interested in reestablishing native oak by planting seedlings. Keys to successful establishment are (1) planting quality seedlings, (2) controlling competing vegetation to increase soil water availability, and (3) protecting seedings from animal damage. A variety of effective cultural treatments, including mulch and tree shelters, are described in detail. Although early growth...

Estimating visitor numbers and collecting information on visitor attitudes in Alaska national forests is especially challenging because of the dispersed access to the forests by a relatively small number of visitors. The Tongass and Chugach National Forests are each millions of acres with miles of saltwater coastline and numerous lakes that allow almost infinite boat and float plane access points. This study identified a number of methods used by land managers in Alaska and other states to address dispersed recreational access as well as other ongoing data collection processes in Alaska,...

This report highlights significant research findings and accomplishments by scientists at the Pacific Northwest (PNW) Research Station during fiscal year 2009. The mission of the PNW Research Station is to generate and communicate scientific knowledge that helps people understand and make informed choices about people, natural resources, and the environment. The work featured in this report illustrates the breadth and the depth of research underway that enables the station to accomplish this mission and deliver timely information to those in the management and policy arenas.