Abstract
Abstract - This study was initiated to determine the effects of various regeneration cutting methods on forest floor mass and nutrient content in shortleaf pine-hardwood communities in the Ouachita and Ozark National Forests. Clearcutting generally altered forest floor concentrations of N, P, and S as well as loss on ignition by increasing the amount of herbaceous vegetation and by mixing mineral soil with the forest floor. Reductions in forest floor concentrations of Mg and Mn were evident in regeneration methods that favored pines and excluded hardwoods (pine single-tree selection and pine shelterwoods). Changes were due to the overall lower concentrations of these nutrients in pine foliage than in hardwood foliage and a reduction of Mn in both pine and hardwood foliage after harvesting. Thus reductions in forest floor Mn appeared not only to be related to changes in stand composition but also reduced soil availability and/or tree uptake. Reductions in Mn content after harvesting were between 22 and 52 percent. Reduction of the other nutrients were generally less than 20 percent.
Parent Publication
Citation
Liechty, Hal O.; Shelton, Michael G. 2004. Changes in Organic Matter And Nutrients in Forest Floor After Applying Several Reproductive Cutting Methods in Shortleaf Pine-Hardwood Stands. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-74. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pp. 101-109
