Vegetation re-establishment on a hardwood forest site denuded by brine

R.S. Walters; L.R. Auchmoody

doi:10.1016/0169-2046(89)90021-2

Treesearch

Vegetation re-establishment on a hardwood forest site denuded by brine

Formally Refereed

Authors:

R.S. Walters, L.R. Auchmoody

Year:

1989

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Northern Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1016/0169-2046(89)90021-2

Source:

Landscape and Urban Planning. 17: 127-133.

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Download (PDF 2.23 MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/53870.pdf

Abstract

Brine from active oil wells seeped through the soil of a forested site in north-western Pennsylvania and killed all vegetation in its path, leaving the affected area unproductive and unsightly. After the brine source was eliminated, herbaceous plants, shrubs and forest tree seedlings became established and developed rapidly. Establishment began in the first year and by year 4 the site had developed into a healthy young forest. Results show that Allegheny hardwood forest sites damaged by brine water will rapidly revegetate once the brine discharge is stopped if there is a seed supply and if the area is fenced to exclude deer.

Citation

Walters, R.S.; Auchmoody, L.R. 1989. Vegetation re-establishment on a hardwood forest site denuded by brine. Landscape and Urban Planning. 17: 127-133.