Trembling Aspen Stand Response 15 Years after Windthrow, Salvage Harvesting, and Forest Renewal

Windthrow is a common occurrence in boreal forests, affecting wood supply and presenting regeneration challenges for forest managers. Salvage harvesting often conducted afterwards to extract valuable improve access renewal activities. Research efforts, however, are generally limited the effects of windthrow salvage first few years following disturbance. In 2006, catastrophic wind event occurred trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) northeastern Ontario. A field study was established with range silvicultural treatments from leaving after (W) including windrow site preparation, planting, herbicide release (WSPR). While results 5-year assessment have been reported, objective current reassess treatment at 15 post-disturbance, stage stand development that more indicative future conditions. Compared earlier assessment, 15-year indicated standing dead (snags) declined, whereas coarse downed did not change substantially over time. Post-disturbance improved terms density, stocking, growth, but reduced proportion conifers relative only. Thus, helped sustain composition, compared other options increased proportions pine spruce trees W combined preparation planting (WSP), WSP WSPR.