Jack Pine and Aspen Forest Floors in Northeastern Minnesota

Abstract

Characteristics of upland forest floors under mature jack pine and aspen in northeastern Minnesota were investigated. These fuel measurements were needed as inputs for fire behavior prediction models -- useful for fire management decisions. The forest floor weight averaged 33,955 kg/ha and depth averaged 7.1 cm. Bulk density averaged 17 kg/m3 for the L (litter) layer, 45.7 kg/m3 for the F (fermentation) layer, and 61.6 kg/m3 for the H (humus) layer. The L layer was found to consist of 65 percent foliage, 31 percent wood and bark, 2 percent herbaceous vegetation, and 2 percent miscellaneous. No significant differences were found in weight, depth, or bulk density, except for the bulk density of the H layer, between the forest floors of jack pine and aspen.

Citation

Loomis, Robert M. 1977. Jack Pine and Aspen Forest Floors in Northeastern Minnesota. Research Note NC-222. St. Paul, MN: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station