Aspen Ecology in the United States: Recent Advances and Future Needs

Aspen Ecology in the United States: Recent Advances and Future Needs

This presentation (along with a similar Canadian perspective) will offer a context for subsequent papers in the Advances in North American Aspen Ecology session. Collectively, we hope to outline major areas of research in North America, especially as they relate to perceived management needs. There is a long and rich history of ecological research in aspen systems of the United States. Probably the most striking long-term change, from a managerial perspective, has been a shift toward biological benefits of aspen as opposed to past avoidance, or even active denudation, of these systems in favor of more commercial species. This talk will focus on important contributions of the past decade as it explores vital areas of needed research. Sources for this presentation include a review of salient literature and summation of researcher and manager conclaves that have taken place over the past year in the western U.S. The discussion will be structured around these broad topics which encompass recent advances and expected needs: 1) genetics and phytochemistry; 2) management practices; 3) wildlife interactions and diversity; 4) measuring and monitoring cover change; and 5) adaptive approaches to disturbance and climate. Though groupings present a convenient structure for discussion, they should not be construed as exclusive of one another. The overlap of ecological and social elements elevates the need for strategic and adaptive systems thinking in this field. The Western Aspen Alliance provides a mechanism for facilitating communication among researchers and managers, as well as a center for interdisciplinary fusion.

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/nafecology/sessions/aspen/11