Master's Graduate Student School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri Columbia, Missouri, United States
Little is known about the age demographics and growth dynamics of naturally regenerated longleaf pine sapling patches. Our research found that not only are these patches even-aged, we found that sapling growth was negatively influenced by local competition and the fire regime. Our findings will help improve silvicultural practices.
Learning Objectives:
Better understand the regeneration and growth dyanmics that occur within longleaf pine sapling patches.
Evaluate longleaf pine sapling dynamics on other stands and utilize updated silvics to manage and tend said stands.
Identify new costs and benefits of using prescribed fire in longleaf pine stands and how fire may influence their stand's growth.
