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Chapter 9: Planting hardwood tree seedlings on reclaimed mine land in the Appalachian region

Informally Refereed
Download (PDF 1.44 MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/54358.pdf

Abstract

The Forestry Reclamation Approach (FRA) is a method of reclaiming surface coal mines to forested postmining land use (Chapter 2, this volume). "Use proper tree planting techniques" is Step 5 of the FRA; when used with the other FRA steps, proper tree planting can help to ensure successful reforestation. Proper care and planting of tree seedlings is essential to any reforestation effort. Appalachian coal mines reclaimed by using the FRA will often be rough, rocky, and on steep terrain. Thus, hand planting is the usual method for planting hardwood tree seedlings. Professional tree planting companies with experience in hand-planting reclaimed mines can provide excellent results. Most of these companies offer a complete service that includes obtaining, handling, and planting hardwood tree seedlings. State forestry departments and consulting foresters can also provide valuable assistance.

Parent Publication

Citation

Davis, V.; Franklin, J.; Zipper, C.; Angel, P. 2017. Chapter 9: Planting hardwood tree seedlings on reclaimed mine land in the Appalachian region. In: Adams, Mary Beth, ed. The Forestry Reclamation Approach: guide to successful reforestation of mined lands. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-169. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 9-1 – 9-10.