Killing tanoak in northwestern California

Abstract

Residual tanoak (Lithocarpus densiflorus (Hook. & Arn.) Rehd.) trees and tanoak sprouts often are an important component of the vegetation which competes with conifer reproduction in northwestern California. Sometimes enough tanoak is present in Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) stands to dominate the ground completely after logging. And tanoak sprouts develop vigorously after parent trees are destroyed by fire or logging (fig. 1), thereby providing severe competition to conifer reproduction. Although tanoaks generally are considered undesirable at present, someday they may contribute substantially to forest products. Large tanoaks with good form and limb-free boles are common on better sites. The wood has good properties, a pleasing appearance and, although considerable care is required in seasoning, additional experiments should develop practicable drying schedules. Tanoak has produced veneer and pulp of good quality and yield. The bark contains tannin which is particularly desirable for tanning sole and saddle leather. For these reasons tanoak should not be killed promiscuously but only when it interferes with the objectives of management.

Citation

Roy, D. F. 1956. Killing tanoak in northwestern California. Res. Note 106. Berkeley, CA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, California Forest and Range Experiment Station. 9 p