Variable-density thinning for parks and reserves: An experimental case study at Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California

Christopher R. Keyes; Thomas E. Perry; Jesse F. Plummer

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Variable-density thinning for parks and reserves: An experimental case study at Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Christopher R. Keyes, Thomas E. Perry, Jesse F. Plummer

Year:

2010

Type:

Proceedings

Station:

Rocky Mountain Research Station

Source:

In: Jain, Theresa B.; Graham, Russell T.; Sandquist, Jonathan. Integrated management of carbon sequestration and biomass utilization opportunities in a changing climate: Proceedings of the 2009 National Silviculture Workshop; 2009 June 15-18; Boise, ID. Proceedings RMRS-P-61. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 227-237.

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Abstract

Variable-density thinning is emerging as a valuable tool for the silvicultural promotion of old-growth conditions in second-growth forests of the Pacific Coast. This paper reports on an experimental variable-density thinning prescription applied between 2006 and 2007 at north coastal California’s Humboldt Redwoods State Park. The prescription strategy relied on known patterns of second-growth stand development during the stem exclusion phase, and was designed to alter current stand development trajectories in order to promote reference forest conditions. Prescription outcomes are described and tradeoffs are discussed, with management constraints unique to parks and reserves providing the context for this analysis.

Parent Publication

Integrated management of carbon sequestration and biomass utilization opportunities in a changing climate: Proceedings of the 2009 National Silviculture Workshop; 2009 June 15-18; Boise, ID.

Keywords

ecological restoration, forest stand dynamics, disturbance, stand structure

Citation

Keyes, Christopher R.; Perry, Thomas E.; Plummer, Jesse F. 2010. Variable-density thinning for parks and reserves: An experimental case study at Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California. In: Jain, Theresa B.; Graham, Russell T.; Sandquist, Jonathan. Integrated management of carbon sequestration and biomass utilization opportunities in a changing climate: Proceedings of the 2009 National Silviculture Workshop; 2009 June 15-18; Boise, ID. Proceedings RMRS-P-61. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 227-237.