Date of Award:

5-2014

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Wildland Resources

Committee Chair(s)

James N. Long

Committee

James N. Long

Committee

R. Justin DeRose

Committee

Karen E. Mock

Abstract

This study addresses critical issues and concerns relating to aspen forest management across the Intermountain West. These concerns have been raised due to the declining condition of aspen forests. As a result, aspen decline has been a topic of interest among academics and popular media outlets alike in recent years due to the economical and ecological value of aspen. Some land managers and management agencies have used forest management techniques as a means to deal with this issue. These management techniques are designed to stimulate the reproduction of aspen in order to provide a bank of seedlings and saplings for the future. This research project focuses on the effectiveness of forest management techniques in the context of many different stand conditions in order to identify what factors are most important for reproduction. Through this research we have identified three factors that are important for reproductive success, and therefore contribute to the effectiveness of forest management techniques. These findings will help land managers and management agencies by providing guidance for future management decisions.

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Included in

Life Sciences Commons

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