Increasing Aspen Production through Mechanical Strip-Thinning (December 1, 1991-May 31, 1992): Monitoring Report
1992
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Increasing Aspen Production through Mechanical Strip-Thinning (December 1, 1991-May 31, 1992): Monitoring Report
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1992
Publisher
University of Minnesota, Duluth
Type
Technical Report
Abstract
Progress on five major research tasks is highlighted including studies of the effects of stripthinning
of aspen on growth and disease. Economic analyses and collection of cost data are also
a part of this project. Recently-established field tests of strip-thinning show that stands respond
relatively quickly to strip-thinning. Average growth rates increased by approximately 15 percent
over unthinned stands in the two years following thinning. Measurement plots in these studies
were permanently-monumented during the reporting period to allow relocation of plots after the
project is completed.
Studies done as part of Task II show that a significant relationship exists between the average
tree size and stand density in the aspen stands in our experiment network. This relationship
provides a practical means to quantify stand density relative to that of the average aspen stand
and will be used in the formulation of management recommendations. These studies also
showed a significant relationship between the average stocking density in our stands and the
density inherent in the published normal yield table for aspen. This relationship provides a basis
from which to project wood yields through time. In cooperation with Boise Cascade and Blandin
Paper Company, Division of Lands and Forestry, plans are being made to develop a more
accurate tool to assess site productivity for aspen.
Measurements of previously-thinned stands on the Chippewa National Forest showed variation
in the response to thinning. One stand has more than two times the merchantable volume in a
thinned area compared to an unthinned area while the other shows little response to thinning.
Disease analyses have included notation of disease and stand condition on all sites. No
difference in disease incidence is evident between thinned and unthinned stands at this time.
Cost data recently collected from an operational-scale thinning trial showed costs ranging from
$6.75 to $8.90 per acre with an average cost of approximately $8.00 per acre. Due to optimal
site conditions, these costs are likely near the low end of the cost range for strip-thinning.
Technical assistance was provided to the Blandin Paper Company, Division of Lands and
Forestry during the reporting period. Current research status and economic analyses were
provided to assist in future land management planning.
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Grant No. GR91-00044
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Berguson, William E. (1992). Increasing Aspen Production through Mechanical Strip-Thinning (December 1, 1991-May 31, 1992): Monitoring Report. Retrieved from the University Digital Conservancy, https://hdl.handle.net/11299/256832.
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