Effect of ground skidding on oak advance regeneration

Abstract

Vigorous advance regeneration is required to naturally regenerate oaks. However, a reduction in the number of advance regeneration stems from harvesting activities could be an important factor in determining successful oak regeneration. This study assessed the harvest survivability of advance regeneration of oak (Quercus spp.) and co-occurring species in four mixed upland hardwood stands subjected to commercial clearcutting in Kentucky. Regression indicated a positive curvilinear relationship between height and survival and between ground line diameter and survival for oak. No significant differences were found in survival among oak species. Analysis of survival across all oak species by height class indicated a statistical difference in mean survival percent between oaks <= 3 feet (54.1 percent) and > 3 feet (87.4 percent) in height. Maple (Acer spp.) and other co-occurring species <= 3-feet-tall exhibited a slightly higher and significant (p<0.05) increase in survival compared to oaks <= 3-feet-tall. However, oak advance regeneration > 3-feet-tall maintained similar or greater harvest survivability compared to co-occurring species.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings of the 13th Biennial Southern Silvicultural Research Conference

Citation

Stringer, Jeffrey W. 2006. Effect of ground skidding on oak advance regeneration. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-92. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pp. 535-537