Habitat diversity in uneven-aged northern hardwood stands: a case study

Abstract

Habitat characteristics were quantified in an empirically balanced uneven-aged northern hardwood stand in central New York. Canopy structure, wildlife trees, downed woody material, low cover, and richness and abundance of understory vegetation were assessed. High vertical structural diversity and low horizontal patchiness were associated with the single-tree selection system. Downed logs and wildlife trees were spatially well distributed, and cavities at a range of heights and sizes were documented. Application of a selection cutting decreased total canopy closure, but maintained high vertical structural diversity and an even distribution of foliage among canopy strata. Cutting reduced the number of wildlife trees, but increased low cover, shade-intolerant understory vegetation, and the abundance and complexity of downed woody material. This study provides quantifiable evidence of the diversity of habitat characteristics associated with a balanced stand structure and uniform spatial arrangement of different sized trees in uneven-aged northern hardwood stands.

Citation

Kenefic, Laura S.; Nyland, Ralph D. 2000. Habitat diversity in uneven-aged northern hardwood stands: a case study. Res. Pap. NE-714. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Research Station. 4 p.