Use of USDA forest inventory and analysis data to assess oak tree health in Minnesota

Abstract

As a precursor to a regional assessment for the Upper Midwest, three variables were examined as measures of oak health in Minnesota between 1974 and 1990 using USDA Forest Service Inventory and Analysis data. Mortality was < 1 percent in the 1974-1977 inventory, but > 6 percent in the 1986-1990 inventory based on numbers of dead oaks per total oaks on plots with ≥ 25 percent oak in three forest types. Over two-thirds of the oaks measured during "leaf-on" period in both cycles were in relatively good condition based on live crown ratio (value > 30 percent). Damage incidence observed during "leaf-on" varied by forest type. Incidence of damage-free trees decreased with increasing tree size class and with increasing position in the canopy. Incidence of "decline-associated" damage increased with increased size and increased position in the canopy.

Parent Publication

• 13th Central Hardwoods Forest Conference

Citation

Kromroy, Kathryn W.; Juzwik, Jennifer; Castillo, Paul D. 2003. Use of USDA forest inventory and analysis data to assess oak tree health in Minnesota. In: Van Sambeek, J. W.; Dawson, Jeffery O.; Ponder Jr., Felix; Loewenstein, Edward F.; Fralish, James S., eds. Proceedings of the 13th Central Hardwood Forest Conference; Gen. Tech. Rep. NC-234. St. Paul, MN: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Research Station: 518-526