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Abstract
In areas considered high hazard for blister rust in the northern Lake States, six white pine plantings were established between 1989 and 1999 to: (1) evaluate the impacts of blister rust, white pine weevil, browsing, and competition stress on tree growth and survival, and (2) evaluate the effectiveness of genetic and silvicultural strategies to minimize damage. The effectiveness of a genetic approach is being examined by evaluating seedlings from selected rust-free source trees (seed orchard collected seed) vs. non-selected nursery seedlings (field collected seed). The silvicultural approach is being examined by comparing pruned vs. unpruned trees, and shelterwood vs. clearcut treatments. Early results based on data collected through 2003 are summarized in this paper. Deer and hare browsing have caused widespread mortality at two sites. Competition has been intense on many of the sites, especially in the open-grown (clearcut) treatments, severely affecting growth and survival. The incidence of tree mortality caused by blister rust has been relatively minor, with Armillaria root disease killing more trees than blister rust. Results are too preliminary to fully evaluate the long-term effectiveness of pruning, shelterwood treatment, or planting selected stock in reducing blister rust incidence.Individual papers from this publication
Parent Publication
Citation
Katovich, S. A.; O''Brien, J. G.; Mielke, M. E.; Ostry, M. E. 2004. Restoration and management of eastern white pine within high blister rust hazard zones in the Lake States. In: Shepperd, Wayne D.; Eskew, Lane G., compilers. 2004. Silviculture in special places: Proceedings of the National Silviculture Workshop; 2003 September 8-11; Granby, CO. Proceedings RMRS-P-34. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 135-145
