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Harvard Forest Symposium Abstract 2019
- Title: Long-term plot network established in Massachusetts Ash forests
- Primary Author: David Orwig (Harvard Forest)
- Additional Authors: Paul Catanzaro (University of Massachusetts - Amherst ); Jonathan Thompson (Harvard Forest)
- Abstract:
Additional author: Kristina McKeown (Harvard Forest)
As part of the expanding LTER research effort focusing on invasive forest insect pests in New England, Harvard Forest researchers and Umass collaborator Paul Catanzaro have begun establishing long-term forest monitoring plots in white ash (Fraxinus americana) forests on several properties in western Massachusetts, with more planned for 2019. Three, 20 x 20 m permanent plots were established near Dalton MA, on Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife property and also on MA Department of Conservation and Recreation property. Both sites contain abundant white ash and are infested with the invasive emerald ash borer (EAB; Agrilus planipennis). Within each plot, every woody stem above 2 cm dbh was measured and given a crown class. Presence of EAB and related damage was noted for ash stems. All saplings (woody stems above 1.3 m and less than 2cm dbh) were tallied within the plot and percent cover was estimated for all herb and shrub species. In 2019, plots will be established on additional sites including West Stockbridge, Pepperell, and Harvard Forest. The long-term goal will be to expand this network of plots across New England, including ash sites that were cut in response to EAB in order to compare vegetation dynamics following cutting with uncut stands. - Research Category: Large Experiments and Permanent Plot Studies
Invasive Plants, Pests & Pathogens
