Aspen ecology and management in the western United States

Authors

Norbert V. DeByle

Document Type

Contribution to Book

Editor

Roy D. Adams

Journal/Book Title/Conference

Aspen Symposium '89 : Proceedings

Volume

General Technical Report NC-140

Publisher

USDA Forest Service North Central Forest Experiment Station

First Page

11

Last Page

20

Publication Date

1990

Abstract

Quaking aspen occurs on more than seven million acres of the interior western United States. It is seral in most sites, usually giving way to more shade-tolerant conifers. Regeneration is almost exclusively by root suckering -- seedlings are a rarity. Discrete clones that occupy several acres are the rule on mountainous western landscapes. Management practices reflect the values of this ecosystem. These values, in decreasing order of importance, are: livestock forage, wildlife habitat, watershed cover, esthetics and recreation, and wood products. Wood products are gaining in importance, thus encouraging more active management of this important type.

Recommended Citation

DeByle, Norbert V. 1990. Aspen ecology and management in the western United States. Aspen Symposium '89 : Proceedings. General Technical Report NC-140. North Central Forest Experiment Station Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture St. Paul, Minnesota. 11-20.