Increasing Aspen Production through Mechanical Strip-Thinning (June 1, 1992-November 30, 1992): Monitoring Report
1992
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Increasing Aspen Production through Mechanical Strip-Thinning (June 1, 1992-November 30, 1992): Monitoring Report
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1992
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University of Minnesota, Duluth
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Technical Report
Abstract
This project has five primary research tasks related to the determination of growth and yield of
aspen in response to mechanical strip thinning; analysis of disease incidence in thinned and
unthinned stands and determination of the costs and economic feasibility of mechanical stripthinning
of aspen. Work done during the current reporting period concentrated on detailed
characterization of sites as outlined under Task II of the project workplan. Studies of stand
density showed that sites in the experiment network differ statistically in average stocking density
with more heavily-stocked stands found in Koochiching County and less dense stands located in
Cass County. Direct measurement of canopy density was done using a light meter to determine
light penetration through canopies in thinned and unthinned stands. This information will be
used to track the development of thinned stands over time and project future growth rates. Soil
sampling was done at all sites to characterize site quality. Soil samples will be analyzed for
texture, water. holding capacity and nutrient status during the coming reporting period. Data
collection activities related to Task I and III (evaluation of growth response to strip-thinning) is
nearly complete for all sites. Collection of tree growth data will be completed in early
December. An inventory of disease, insect and mechanical damage in thinned and unthinned
stands was completed for those sites not inventoried in 1991. Economic analyses were
expanded to evaluate the effects of assumptions about rotation age on the economic feasibility
of strip-thinning. Rotation age is shown to have a large effect on economic performance of an
investment in thinning with net present value decreasing by six percent for every year increase
in rotation age. Plans for the next reporting period include summary and analysis of growth data
for the 1992 growing season, analysis of foliage and soil samples and integration of economic
analyses with tree growth data.
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Grant No. GR91-00044
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Berguson, William E. (1992). Increasing Aspen Production through Mechanical Strip-Thinning (June 1, 1992-November 30, 1992): Monitoring Report. Retrieved from the University Digital Conservancy, https://hdl.handle.net/11299/256833.
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