A comparison of witness tree and contemporary compositions for old-growth forests at Savage Mountain, Maryland, and secondary forests of the northern Allegheny Mountains1

We used historical and contemporary survey data to assess the dynamics in two old-growth forests at Savage Mountain, Maryland, versus secondary from surrounding landscape of northern Allegheny Mountain Plateau (AMP). This is first published compilation witness trees western Maryland. The on are presently dominated by mixed oak (Quercus spp. L.; 42%), red maple (Acer rubrum L.), black birch (Betula lenta L.). Witness (1620–1825) were (55%), hickory (Carya spp.; 18%), chestnut (Castanea dentata (Marsh.) Borkh.; 10%), lacked birch. AMP Pennsylvania (41%), pine (Pinus 12%), (11%), (10%), (6%). Currently (25%), cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrh.; 11%). stands similar its regard species have greater dominance than forests. suggests that retains more compared with cut-over However, has a higher density when AMP. Our research illustrates differences forest between second-growth important implications for sustainability native