Effects of timber harvest on elk distribution in the Blue Mountains of Oregon.

Abstract

A long-term study to determine the effects of several methods of timber harvest on the distribution of Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus elaphus nelsoni) was begun in the early 1970's in the Blue Mountains of northeastern Oregon. The study area was an upper slope spruce-fir type with harvest designed to compare changes in elk use, as measured by pellet-group densities under small-patch or large-block clearcuts, partial cuts, and uncut controls. Results showed prescribed logging practices in spruce-fir forests improved forage and habitat diversity for elk. Overall use by elk increased three and one-half times over that of use before logging. By the 5th year after disturbance, however, elk use declined to near former levels. Patch clearcut logging resulted in greater elk use than partial cutting. Uncut adjacent timber stands were also important as cover for elk that used the clearcuts. Grass and legume seeding did not significantly enhance elk use of clearcuts.

Citation

Skovlin, Jon M.; Bryant, Larry D.; Edgerton, Paul J. 1989. Effects of timber harvest on elk distribution in the Blue Mountains of Oregon. Res. Pap. PNW-RP-415. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 10 p