Introducing the NH-SEED: A Holistic Experiment to Revisit Classical and Test Novel Silvicultural Systems in a Changing World
| Authors: | Christopher R. Webster, Yvette L. Dickinson, Robert E. Froese |
| Year: | 2023 |
| Type: | Proceedings - Paper |
| Station: | Northern Research Station |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.2737/NRS-GTR-P-211-paper27 |
| Source: | In: Kern, Christel C.; Dickinson, Yvette L., eds. Proceedings of the first biennial Northern Hardwood Conference 2021: Bridging science and management for the future. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-211. Madison, WI: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 131–135. |
Abstract
Forest stewards aim to ensure forest sustainability through the application of the best available science. However, current silvicultural guidelines were developed under historical social, economic, and ecological conditions. When applied under novel conditions, these guidelines may have unpredictable or undesirable outcomes. Furthermore, silviculturists increasingly aim to manage ecosystems as complex adaptive systems, which requires a holistic understanding of ecosystem processes and functions. We established the Northern Hardwood Silviculture Experiment (NH-SEED) to develop alternative silvicultural systems for the management of Great Lakes northern hardwoods through identifying critical, process-limiting dynamics. This before-after, control-impact experiment uses a replicated split-plot design to investigate the influence of harvest intensity, site preparation, deer exclusion, and direct seeding. We are assessing: (1) logging productivity and impacts, (2) stand composition, structure and development, (3) financial returns, (4) understory plant community dynamics, (5) changes in wildlife populations, and (6) social impacts in response to the experimental treatments.