Elk hiding and thermal cover guidelines in the context oflodgepole pine stand density
Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
West J. Appl. For.
Volume
2
Publication Date
1-1-1987
First Page
6
Last Page
10
Abstract
We present a technique to evaluate how ungulate hiding and thermal cover guidelines affect density management of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) stands. Modification of a lodgepole pine density management diagram results in a graphical tool useful to forest managers interested in wildlife habitat evaluation. This technique can be used to determine the amounts of cover provided by silvicultural prescriptions and to evaluate cover status of existing stands. Stand structures that meet the guidelines were determined by simulation modeling and field sampling. Current hiding cover requirements were met when summed dbh was above about 5,000 in./ac or when summed crown diameters were greater than 630 ft/ac. The thermal cover requirement was determined to be the most restrictive element of the guidelines. West. J. Appl. For. 2:6-10, January 1987.
Recommended Citation
Smith, F.W. and J.N. Long. 1987. Elk hiding and thermal cover guidelines in the context of lodgepole pine stand density. West. J. Appl. For. 2:6-10.
