New visualization of browse impacts points to restoration challenges in deciduous forests of the Midwest and Northeast

Abstract

Forest managers and policymakers rely heavily on broad-scale spatial information to better channel scarce funds to address important issues, especially those related to restoration. The abundance of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and their impact on young-forest habitat (YFH) establishment and development qualifies as such an issue. Restoring broadleaf deciduous forests in the Midwest and Northeast has become nearly impossible in many areas, because deer are devouring the next generation of trees. With YFH increasingly rare and invasive plants and pests expanding, foresters are faced with a serious challenge.

Citation

​McWilliams, Will. 2019. New visualization of browse impacts points to restoration challenges in deciduous forests of the Midwest and Northeast. The Forestry Source. 24(1): 8-9.