FOREST STRUCTURE, SPECIES COMPOSITION AND ECOSYSTEM RESPONSE FOLLOWING SILVICULTURAL TREATMENTS IN SOUTHEASTERN FORESTS

• Sponsoring Institution: National Institute of Food and Agriculture
• Project Status: COMPLETE
• Funding Source: MCINTIRE-STENNIS
• Reporting Frequency: Annual
• Accession No.: 0215434
• Project Start Date: Jul 1, 2008
• Project End Date: Sep 30, 2013
• Program Code: [(N/A)]- (N/A)

Recipient Organization
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
G022 MCCARTY HALL
GAINESVILLE,FL 32611

Performing Department
West Florida Research and Education Center, Jay

Non Technical Summary
Meeting objectives for both natural resources and ecosystem services, particularly on the shrinking land base in Florida, has necessitated new approaches and techniques for sound management. Recently, silvicultural practices and forest operations have been refined in several of the forest types of the southeastern United States. These new recommendations are often based on observational inferences and other anecdotal evidence. Verification of these new methods requires a combination of monitoring of short-term responses to current treatments as well as development of models to predict the long-term outcomes. The overall objective of this project is to evaluate the short and long-term responses to new forest management practices in a variety of southeastern forest types, including bottomland hardwood systems, forested wetlands, and longleaf pine ecosystems. My research is aimed at understanding the effects of harvesting operations and treatments on forest structural attributes (diameter distribution, spatial distribution of plants, crown classes, etc), species composition, and productivity (regeneration and growth). Recent controversy regarding cypress harvesting in wetlands has stimulated the need to assess harvesting practices in these systems. The first specific objective is to evaluate newly recommended Best Management Practices for logging, as well as saw head harvesting techniques, in bottomland hardwood and wetland ecosystems. We will initiate a controlled experiment to evaluate the effectiveness of newly recommended logging practices at minimizing ecosystem disturbance. Observational studies will be used to assess long-term ecosystem recovery following logging activities. As a result of this work, we will have a better understanding of ecosystem responses to current and developing management strategies, providing land managers with evidence and recommendations for appropriate best management practices in these ecosystems. The second objective, is to characterize and model regeneration and growth responses following uneven-aged silvicultural methods in longleaf pine ecosystems. Uneven-aged management has gained wide appeal in recent decades because it mimics natural disturbance regimes; however, the intricacies of its implementation and the long-term implications for different regeneration cutting methods have not been fully realized. A series of observational studies will be used to characterize forest structure, regeneration, and growth in both unmanaged and managed uneven-aged stands. This knowledge will provide short-term assessments of already existing treatments, and will also be used to develop computer simulations to make long-term predictions of different uneven-aged methods. We expect that the outputs from the model will be used to develop and refine recommendations for uneven-aged management techniques.

Animal Health Component

(N/A)

Research Effort Categories

Basic

(N/A)

Applied

(N/A)

Developmental

(N/A)

Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
101	0330	1070	15%
123	0330	1070	35%
123	0611	1070	50%

Knowledge Area
101 - Appraisal of Soil Resources; 123 - Management and Sustainability of Forest Resources;

Subject Of Investigation
0611 - Conifer forests of the South; 0330 - Wetland and riparian systems;

Field Of Science
1070 - Ecology;

Keywords

wetlands

mat logging

harvesting

cypress

regeneration

stump sprouts

longleaf pine

uneven aged silviculture

single tree selection system

group selection system

irregular shelterwood

Goals / Objectives
The overall goal of this project is to evaluate the short and long-term plant and ecosystem responses to newly implemented forest management practices in a variety of southeastern forest types valued for both natural resources and ecosystem services. The first specific objective is determining ecosystem responses to harvesting methods in bottomland hardwood and wetland. In particular, we will examine how woody regeneration, species communities, and abiotic conditions respond to physical impacts of harvesting as a result of new skidding and felling techniques. As a result, we expect to provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of these harvesting techniques at reducing ecosystem disturbance and promoting vegetative recovery in bottomland hardwood and wetland systems. In addition to presenting these results through refereed publication, we will consult with state forestry divisions and other forestry associations to refine and recommend these techniques as Best Management Practices when appropriate. The second objective is to characterize and model the response to uneven-aged silvicultural methods in longleaf pine ecosystems. In particular, structure and spatial distribution of age classes will be quantified in unmanaged, uneven-aged stands, and growth responses will be evaluated in stands where uneven-aged treatments have been applied. This information will be used to develop computer simulation models to predict long-term responses to different uneven-aged methods. We expect to provide land managers with the ability to develop long-term strategies for sustaining production, habitat, structure, and other values in longleaf pine ecosystems. We will use the long-term predictions from the computer models to develop management recommendations and will work with state and federal forestry agencies to refine techniques and educate land managers about the implementation of these uneven-aged methods.

Project Methods
The first objective of the project (to determine ecosystem responses to harvesting methods in bottomland hardwood and wetland) will be achieved through a series of experimental and observational studies. An experimental study will be implemented to compare soil and vegetative responses following conventional skidding practices and new mat logging BMP's. Repeat measurements of soil and vegetative condition will be collected prior to harvest and through the 2nd growing season following harvest. Two observational studies will be implemented to characterize long-term (10-yr) vegetative responses after logging, where the treatment of interest for one study is skidding (mat logging) and for the other is felling technique (sawhead type and cut stump height). For all studies, analysis of covariance will be used for comparison of continuous variables (e.g. soil parameters, vegetation cover), and multidimensional metrics will be used to assess the effects of skid trail type and felling technique on species community dynamics. The second objective of the project (to characterize and model regeneration and growth responses following uneven-aged silvicultural methods in longleaf pine ecosystems) will be achieved through a series of observational, experimental and computer simulation studies. Since restoring longleaf pine stands to natural ecosystem conditions appears to be an impetus for the interest in uneven-aged silviculture, an observational study will be implemented to analyze the structural characteristics and spatial distribution of age classes in unmanaged, longleaf pine stands. We will evaluate the spatial distribution of both individual trees as well as the distinct patches across the site using measures of randomness, uniformity or aggregation (eg. Ripley's K statistic or Morisita index). Additionally, regeneration and growth responses will be measured in an experimental study which was installed as a randomized complete block design with five treatments (single-tree selection, group selection with 0.2 ha gaps, group selection with 0.5 ha gaps, irregular shelterwood, and a no-cut control) and four replications of each treatment on 9 ha. We will compare treatments using ANOVA, with the main response variables of regeneration densities and tree growth rates. Data from both studies will be used, in part, to develop deterministic growth equations for a spatially explicit computer simulation. The framework for the simulation model will consist of a series of integrated computer modules or programs that estimate: regeneration, ingrowth, growth, and mortality of longleaf pine stems; and understory vegetation cover. Common model validation techniques include an analysis of residuals (observed minus predicted values) based on a subset of the original data.

Progress 07/01/08 to 09/30/13

Outputs
Target Audience: Target audiences for the last reporting include state managers, primarily from the Florida Forest Service and Florida’s various Water Management Districts, federal land managers from the National Forests, and private landowners. These various individuals were educated about silvicultural harvesting methods for converting and restoring plantations to more natural, uneven-aged forest ecosystems through a one-day workshop and research booklet. Both modeling and field results were presented (Objective 2 of this project). A wider audience of agencies individual and private landowners was reached through a brief newsletter article highlighting the results of the research. Additional results related to spatial structure, regeneration and growth following uneven-aged silvicultural methods was also presented to other academic researchers at the Biennial Southern Silviculture Research Conference. Some of these results were was also incorporated into a guest lecture for an online course entitled Ecology and Restoration of Longleaf Pine Ecosystems. This is a course offered by the University of Florida, with yearly enrollment of about 20-30 undergraduate and graduate students primarily from the state of Florida. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Overall, this project has resulted in the training of 2 Master of Science graduate students, one Ph.D student (who was also a Post-doctoral Research Associate on the last year of the project), and 8 undergraduate students involved with aspects of the research including data collection and processing. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? A article in a newsletter provided the Conserved Forest Ecosystems: Outreach and Research (CFEOR) cooperative extended a summary of the results of this project to a wider audience of both public agency employees and private landowners. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Among some of the key results from Objective 1 include findings regarding the impact and sustainability of logging in forested wetlands of the southeastern US. Importantly, we found that a relatively new Best Management Practice implemented in Florida called mat logging, reduces soil compaction and logging equipment impacts by nearly half compared to older logging methods. Regeneration and growth of cypress, other wetland trees, and herbaceous plants were significantly higher in areas not impacted by logging equipment, further highlighting the importance of this new BMP. These results have been used by the Florida Forest Service. Additionally these results were presented to the EPA to demonstrate that logging in forest wetlands, when done properly, can result in continued forest land cover and minimize erosion and other water quality issues. This was brought to the attention of the EPA’S Southern Regional Wetlands office during meetings to discuss possible new regulations for temporary road usage in forest areas. In addition, this project resulted in the training of two graduate students who now work for state and federal environmental agencies. More specific details and results related to Objective 1 are as follows: Wetland logging has receivedattention in recent decades because of potential effects of harvesting on site regeneration, ecosystem recovery and subsequent impacts to water quality. The objective of this work was to examine the effectiveness of mat logging BMPs on reduction to soil impacts and subsequent vegetative recovery in cypress-tupelo wetlands in Florida. Study sites included 5 mat-logged and 6 conventionally bottom-logged stands ranging in age from 3 -15 yrs, as well as 4 second growth reference stands. We determined skid trail areas from aerial imagery, measured depth changes across skid trails, and took field measurements of soils and tree regeneration on- and off-trails at each site. Skid trails in conventionally bottom-logged sites covered more than twice the area than in mat logged sites (27.9 vs 13.6%), and were generally twice as deep (30 – 45 cm vs 10 – 25 cm). Stem densities were variable across all sites (1000 – 5000 stems/ac) but generally didn’t differ on and off trails. However, basal area of regeneration was always higher off- than on-trail, underscoring the importance of minimizing skid trail extent as it appears to have a direct effect on site productivity. Relative densities and basal area by species was similar between uncut reference and logged sites. Over extended successional periods it appears that the harvested sites are on a trajectory to recover as intact forested wetlands. Another study completed in 1999 focused on best practices for cypress harvesting in isolated depressional systems. That study investigated stump sprouting as a function of cut height (below, at, or above the mean high water) and technique (shear vs. saw) in 8 sites throughout North Florida. We revisited those sites in 2009 to evaluate coppice regeneration success. The type of felling equipment used did not significantly affect the proportion of stumps producing sprouts or sprouts producing cones, and the proportion of stumps with at least one sprout changed very little over time, indicating high rates of survival of at least one sprout per stump over a decade. This study confirmed initial findings that sprouts were more likely to develop and survive on smaller diameter stumps (< 30 cm) and stumps cut 20 cm below or near the mean high water. Survival of sprouts over ten years shows that initial sprout success after two growing seasons can be used as an indicator of coppice regeneration. Results from Objective 2 of this study have primarily been disseminated and demonstrated to land managers from public agencies, where implementation of ecosystem-level forestry methods can be applied. Uneven-aged silviculture has not had wide appeal in southeastern forest ecosystems because it is thought too complex to implement, although it is known to mimic the natural disturbance regimes of the area. We found through our work on this project that natural stands contain a variety of gap sizes in which longleaf pine can regenerate, and thus we suggest to land managers that a simpler approach focusing on residual basal area and creating a range of gap sizes. Our results from this part of the project are relatively recent, but we have conducted several workshops and interacted with land managers for the last year to promote these recommendations. This part of the project also resulted in the training of one Ph.D student, who is now a post-doctoral research associate and several undergraduate students. More specific details and results related to Objective 2 are as follows: A long-term project, entitled the “Comparative Analysis of Reproduction techniques (CART) for Sustainable Management of Longleaf Pine Ecosystems” at the Escambia Experimental Forest in Brewton, AL, was designed to evaluate long-term responses of uneven-aged silvicultural methods. However in September 2004, two months after harvesting was complete, the study sites were directly impacted by Hurricane Ivan resulting in significant damage. In 2010, we revisited those plots to compare basal area growth as well as quantify spatial structure of residual trees following harvesting and hurricane impact on nine 9-ha plots initially treated with single-tree or group selection method or left as an uncut, but hurricane-impacted control. Between 2005 and 2010, total basal area increased by about 1 m2/ha in the control and group selection plots and by 0.6 m2/ha in the single-tree plots, though relative growth rates after compensating for differences in post-hurricane basal areas were not significantly different. Analysis of spatial structure indicated that residual trees in plots treated with single-tree selection were actually less uniformly dispersed following hurricane disturbance than in the group selection or control plots. Additionally, gap sizes following hurricane blow down were nearly equivalent in plots treated with single-tree selection as compared to group selection. Although application of selection system methods requires special attention to residual forest structure and gap sizes, in hurricane prone areas this may be less consequential and focusing on residual basal area of the surrounding matrix forest should be of more concern to retain resiliency following disturbance. There has also been an increasing interest in converting plantations to an uneven-aged structure to promote sustainable harvests as well as maintain ecosystem services. This study provided a framework for simulating conversion of mature even-aged stands to uneven-aged slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) stands using the USDA FVS model. A total of 73 scenarios, representing combinations of two harvest methods (based on either “BDq” and/or “low thinning”), two harvesting cycles (10 or 20 yr), three harvest intensities (4.6 or 8.0 or 11.5 m2 ha-1 residual basal areas), and six levels of regeneration (0 to 2224 seedlings ha-1) were evaluated for structural diversity, timber production and carbon (C) stocks over a 100 year period. The BDq harvest approach, which applied selection cutting based on diameter regulation from the first cutting cycle onwards, resulted in higher structural diversity. Scenarios based on “low thinning” in the first cutting cycle and BDq method from the third cutting cycle onwards tended to result in higher total merchantable timber and C-stocks over the entire simulation period, particularly at higher residual basal areas and longer cutting cycles. None of the scenarios maximized all of the three variables simultaneously. The study also revealed that regeneration and establishment of as low as 247 seedlings ha-1 can lead to successful conversion and multiple benefits from uneven-aged slash pine stands.

Publications

• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2014 Citation: Bohn, K.K., C. Chancy, and D. Brockway. In press. Structure and growth of longleaf pine forests following uneven-aged silviculture and hurricane disturbance. Proceedings of the 17th Biennial Southern Silviculture Conference, Shreveport, LA. March 4-8, 2013. USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station. 2p.
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Bohn, K. and A. Sharma. 2013. Understory vegetation responses one year after conversion harvesting in slash pine plantations at Tates Hell State Forest. Conserved Forest Ecosystems: Research and Outreach Newsletter. June 7, 2013. p1.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2014 Citation: SHARMA, A., K. BOHN, S. JOSE, AND W. CROPPER. ACCEPTED. Converting Even?aged Plantations to Uneven?aged Stand Conditions: A Simulation Analysis of Silvicultural Regimes with Slash Pine (Pinus elliotti) TO BE PUBLISHED IN FOREST SCIENCE.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2013 Citation: Bohn, K.K., C. Chancy, and D. Brockway. Structure and growth of longleaf pine forests following uneven-aged silviculture and hurricane disturbance. Oral presentation at 17th Biennial Southern Silviculture Conference. Shreveport, LA. March 4-8, 2013.

Progress 10/01/11 to 09/30/12

Outputs
OUTPUTS: The results from Objective 1 regarding ecosystem recovery following logging in forested wetlands was disseminated throughout the state of Florida, at Environmental Science Seminars at the University of West Florida in the western panhandle and for the St. John's River Water Management District northeast Florida. Results were also presented to a national audience at the Society of American Forester's National Convention in Spokane, WA. A manuscript with results from this objective is currently in revision and will be submitted in 2013. Some additional spatial analyses of uneven-aged stands and relationships to natural regeneration (Objective 2, Studies 2 and 3) were also completed and will be incorporated into a manuscript currently be written). The final analyses for Objective 2 (Study 3) regarding modeling of uneven-aged treatments were completed in 2012 as part of a dissertation chapter for a graduate student that I advise. This chapter is currently being revised before final submission for publication. These results were also presented as part of a one-day workshop to approximately 30 land managers and state land agency personnel in September 2012. A complementary 20 page report documenting the results was provided to attendees. A side project related to Objective 2 (effects of uneven-aged silvcultural treatments) was also published in 2012. PARTICIPANTS: The principal investigator, Kimberly Bohn, has had the responsibility for overseeing the management and implementation of the various projects related to the research objectives, including supervision of employees, assistance or responsibility for manuscript preparation and dissemination of results at conferences and workshop. In this fiscal year, Justin McKeithen, senior lab technician under my supervision at the University of Florida performed the additional spatial analyses for Objective 2, Study 2. Ajay Sharma was the UF graduate student responsible for conducting and completing Objective 2, Study 3 as well as creating documents and speaking at a one-day workshop for land managers. TARGET AUDIENCES: Knowledge was disseminated to a variety of audiences ranging from undergraduate and graduate students, state land management agency personnel, and other academic researchers through seminars and workshops. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Under Objective 2, Study 3, we used the USDA Forest Service's Forest Vegetation Simulator to address questions related to effects of silvicultural treatments on forest structure, timber production, and carbon sequestration rather than developing our own model, as proposed by the research. We utilized the existing model because post-harvest empirical data needed to create the model were not available due to several years of delay in harvesting our treatment plots. The FVS model was calibrated to meet conditions of the site we were modeling and therefore deemed appropriate for meeting the objectives.

Impacts
Knowledge was disseminated to a variety of audiences, which resulted in much discussion between the project leaders and audience members. Although there was informal dialog from audience members about new knowledge gained, changes in methodsor actions as a result of learning about this reseach have not been formally documented or measured during this time period.

Publications

• Publications Sharma, A., S. Jose, K.K. Bohn, and M.G. Andreu. 2012. Effects of reproduction methods and overstory species composition on understory light availability in longleaf pine-slash pine ecosystems. Forest Ecology and Management 284, p. 23 to 33.
• Conference Abstracts Bohn, K.K, A. Washuta, and M. Cohen. Regeneration and Recovery of Cypress Tupelo Wetlands using Mat-Logging BMPs. Society of American Foresters 2012 National Convention. Spokane, WA. October 26, 2012. (Contributed Lecture)

Progress 10/01/10 to 09/30/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: In the past reporting year, field data collection and analysis were completed for all studies associated with Objective 1 (Wetland logging). Vegetation and soils data were collected, processed, and statistically analyzed in mat-logged and bottom-logged forested wetlands that were harvested from 2 to 12 years ago. These results were presented in a 117 page final report that was submitted to the funding agencies (EPA and NCASI, Inc) in early June 2010 as well as in a graduate student Master of Science thesis. Three manuscripts from this report are in review (Southern Journal of Applied Forestry, Wetlands) or in revision for publication. Results were presented at the Society of American Foresters 2010 National Convention in Albuquerque, NM. Stem mapping of uneven-aged longleaf stands at the U.S. Forest Service Escambia Experimental Forest was completed during this period, and statistical analyses of tree spatial structure as well as regeneration densities and overstory tree growth were completed (Objective 2, Studies 1 and 2). These results were presented in a 35 page final report to the US Forest Service, to be finalized and submitted by December 2011. A few additional spatial analyses and development of a manuscript for publication in a refereed journal will continue in 2012. Study 3 of Objective 2 will also be conducted by a Ph.D. student at the University of Florida in 2012. PARTICIPANTS: The principal investigator, Kimberly Bohn, has had the responsibility for overseeing the management and implementation of this project. Primary collaborators who have assisted with implementation of the studies related to harvesting in forested wetlands include: Matt Cohen, Assistant Professor, University of Florida; Jeff Vowell, Florida Division of Forestry; and various forest managers from Plum Creek and Rayonier. One graduate student, Amy Washuta, worked on this project during the reporting period. Collaborators on studies related to uneven-aged silviculture during this reporting period include Dale Brockway at USDA Forest Service Southern Research Station, and David Dyson and Ron Tucker at the USFS Escambia Experimental Forest. One graduate student, Ajay Sharma, worked on this project during the reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Outcomes related to learning and behavior changes have not been formally documented or measured. However, following submission of Final Report regarding wetland logging (Objective 1), several groups have requested more information, permission to use the citation, or a request to present the findings in a seminar. Requests have come from private forest consultants, non-governmental environmental organizations, as well as the Society of American Foresters. The document was also used by an EPA subcommittee in deciding on how to proceed with any regulation of harvesting in cypress wetlands.

Publications

• Newsletter: Bohn, K. and A. Washuta. 2011. Evaluating Silvicultural Best Management Practices in Florida wetlands. Conserved Forest Ecosystems: Research and Outreach Newsletter. June 10, 2011. p1.
• Final Report: Bohn, K.K., M. Cohen, A. Washuta, N.M Ricci, and C. Foster. 2011. Recovery and Regeneration of Forested Wetlands. EPA Final Report. 117 pp.

Progress 10/01/09 to 09/30/10

Outputs
OUTPUTS: In the past reporting year, field data collection and analysis continued on several of the objectives and studies to assess forest structure, composition and ecosystem response following silvicultural treatments. Vegetation and soils data were collected, processed, and statistically analyzed in mat-logged and bottom-logged forested wetlands that were harvested from 2 to 12 years ago (Objective , Studies 1 and 2 of CRIS project proposal). Manuscript preparation will be completed this year. A manuscript regarding survival of cypress coppice regeneration ten year following logging in cypress domes is currently in review (Objective 2, Study 3). Results from all three studies were presented at the Society of American Foresters 2010 National Convention in Albuquerque, NM and the Society for Wetland Scientists National Conference in Salt Lake City, UT and the Florida Society of American Forester's Spring Symposium in Gainesville, FL. Regeneration data and overstory tree remeasurements were completed at the U.S. Forest Service Escambia Experimental Forest (Objective 2, Study 2). Data analysis and report writing will be completed in 2011. Post-harvest data (regeneration, microclimate, gap fraction, and tree growth) at the Tate's Hell State Forest was delayed due to a delay in harvesting. However, gap fraction as a function of treatment and species composition was measured at other forests. This information will be used in the development of silvicultural models (Study 3). Those results were presented at the Ecological Society of America Annual Conference in Pittsburgh, PA and Florida Society of American Forester's Spring Symposium in Gainesville, FL. PARTICIPANTS: The principal investigator, Kimberly Bohn, has had the responsibility for overseeing the management and implementation of this project. Primary collaborators who have assisted with implementation of the studies related to harvesting in forested wetlands include: Matt Cohen, Assistant Professor, University of Florida; Jeff Vowell, Florida Division of Forestry; and various forest managers from Plum Creek and Rayonier. Graduate students working on these projects were Amy Washuta and Nicole Ricci (through 5/09). Collaborators on studies related to uneven-aged silviculture in southern conifer stands include Dale Brockway, USDA Forest Service; Shibu Jose, currently with University of Missouri; David Morse and Ace Haddock, Florida Division of Forestry. Graduate student working on this project was Ajay Sharma. TARGET AUDIENCES: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Outcomes related to learning and behavior changes have not been formally documented at this stage of the project. Preliminary results related to Objective 1 were documented in a brief report as requested by the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement, Inc. Formal publications are in review or in preparation.

Publications

• Conference abstracts: Washuta, A.*, K. Bohn, and M. Cohen. Effects of logging technique on microtopography in Taxodium-Nyssa swamps of the southeastern coastal plain. Society of American Foresters 2010 National Convention. Albuquerque, NM. October 28-31, 2010. (Poster) Sharma, A.*, K. Bohn, and S. Jose. Understory light availability in slash pine and longleaf pine ecosystems of the Gulf Coastal Plain flatwoods: Implications for uneven-aged management. Ecological Society of America 95rd Annual Conference. Pittsburgh, PA. August 1-6, 2010. (Poster)
• Washuta, A.*, K. Bohn, and M. Cohen. Examining microtopography in Taxodium-Nyssa swamps: effects of timber harvest. Society of Wetland Scientists Annual Meeting. Salt Lake City, UT. June 27-July 2, 2010. (Poster)
• Newsletter: Sharma, A.* and K.Bohn. Canopy light transmittance in longleaf pine-slash pine ecosystems of the Gulf Coastal Plains. Conserved Forest Ecosystems: Research and Outreach Newsletter. June 4, 2010. p1.

Progress 10/01/08 to 09/30/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: In the past reporting year, field data collection was completed on several studies that will fulfill the objectives of assessing forest structure, composition and ecosystem response following silvicultural treatments. Specifically, vegetation and soils data were collected in mat-logged and bottom-logged forested wetlands that were harvested from 2 to 12 years ago (Objective 1of CRIS project proposal), and data analysis will be completed in the following reporting year. Data collection and analysis was completed regarding survival of cypress coppice regeneration ten year following logging in cypress domes (Objective 2, Study 3). Results were presented at the Society of American Foresters 2009 National Convention in Orlando, FL. Pre-harvest inventories and harvesting guides were developed for converting pine plantations to uneven-aged southern pine ecosystems (Objective 2). Post-harvest data (regeneration, microclimate, gap fraction, and tree growth) will be measured here and at other sites within the next year. In June 2009, I assisted in developing and delivering a workshop for 25 state and federal land managers regarding conversion of pine plantations and uneven-aged silviculture, including a field demonstration of our research plots. This information was also presented in poster format by my graduate student at the Society of American Foresters 2009 National Convention, the National Conference for Ecosystem Restoration in Los Angeles, CA and the Southeastern Ecology and Evolution Conference in Gainesville, FL. Additionally, two-year response of invasive species and impacts of non-target species to herbicide use in forested systems was collected, analyzed, and submitted for publication (for more information see reporting of Patrick Minogue, lead PI). Results were also presented at the Florida Exotic Pest and Plant Council's 24th Annual Symposium in Delray Beach, FL. PARTICIPANTS: The principal investigator, Kimberly Bohn, has had the responsibility for overseeing the management and implementation of this project. Primary collaborators who have assisted with implementation of the studies related to harvesting in forested wetlands include: Matt Cohen, Assistant Professor, University of Florida; Jeff Vowell, Florida Division of Forestry; and various forest managers from Plum Creek and Rayonier. Collaborators on studies related to uneven-aged silviculture in southern conifer stands include Dale Brockway, USDA Forest Service; Shibu Jose, currently with University of Missouri; David Morse and Ace Haddock, Florida Division of Forestry Work on invasive species control and effects to forest species composition has been done in collaboration with Patrick Minogue, Assistant Professor, University of Florida. He is the lead investigator for a separate CRIS- Mc-Intire Stennis project related to vegetation management, where descriptions related to this study will be further documented. TARGET AUDIENCES: Workshops related to uneven-aged management targeted land managers from state and federal agencies (eg. Florida Division of Forestry, Florida Water Management Districts and the USDA Forest Service) as well as private forest land owners. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Outcomes related to learning and behavior changes have not been formally documented at this stage of the project. However, an informal survey of workshop attendees at the Uneven-aged silviculture workshop indicated small to moderate increase in understanding of concepts and management practices after attending the workshop. Additionally, growing interest in forest practices in wetland systems has been expressed by the EPA, environmental groups, and the forest industry. Publication of results fulfilling Objective 1 of this project will be of particular interest to these groups, particularly with regards to EPA's policy for designating temporary and permanent road systems in forested wetlands.

Publications

• Sharma, A., M. Kreye, S. Jose., and K. Bohn. 2009. Restoration of longleaf and slash pine ecosystems from pine plantations in Florida coastal flatwoods. Southeastern Ecology and Evolution Conference. Gainesville, FL. March 27-29, 2009.
• Bohn, K.K., and P. Minogue. 2009. Control of Japanese climbing fern and impacts to non-target vegetation following herbicide applications. Florida Exotic Pest and Plant Council 24th Annual Symposium. Delray Beach, FL. May 27-29, 2009.
• Sharma, A., S. Jose, and K. Bohn. 2009. Conversion and restoration of even-aged slash pine plantation to uneven-aged slash pine and longleaf pine ecosystem in Florida coastal flatwoods. 3rd National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration. Los Angeles, CA. July 20-24, 2009.
• Ricci, N. and K. Bohn. Recovery of cypress domes in north central Florida ten years after harvest. Society of American Foresters 2009 National Convention. Orlando, FL. October 2-4, 2009.
• Sharma, A., K. Bohn, and S. Jose. Overstory removal techniques for converting even-aged slash pine plantations to an uneven-aged slash pine and longleaf pine ecosystem. Society of American Foresters 2009 National Convention. Orlando, FL. October 2-4, 2009.
• Minogue, P.J., S. Jones, K.K Bohn, and R.L Williams. 2009. Biology and Control of Japanese Climbing Fern (Lygodium japonicum). University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, EDIS Publication FOR218/ FR280. 10p.
• Hagan, D.L., S. Jose, M. Thetford, and K. Bohn. 2009. Production physiology of three native shrubs intercropped in a young longleaf pine plantation. Agroforestry Systems 76: 283-294.

Progress 07/01/08 to 12/31/08

Outputs
OUTPUTS: In the past reporting year since the start of this project, activities have begun on several studies that will fulfill the objectives of assessing forest structure, composition and ecosystem response following silvicultural treatments. Activities have been focused on data collection, specifically: 1) Vegetation and soils data were collected to assess long-term responses to harvesting in forested wetlands, where the treatment of interest was saw-head type and stump height in one study, and skidding technique in another study 2) spatial information on natural regeneration patterns in longleaf pine which can be used to model uneven-aged silvicultural methods, 3) changes in species composition one-year after herbicide control of the invasive Japanese climbing fern in natural pine stands where restoring ground cover is of importance. (Note: Activities related to vegetation management of this invasive species is reported in further detail by lead investigator, Patrick Minogue in a separate report). Data collection and analyses will continue through the following year for most studies. Preliminary analyses and observations related to natural regeneration dynamics of longleaf pine as well as herbicide impacts to invasive and non-target species were reported at both extension events (Natural Resource Conservation Field Day, May 22,2008, Milton, FL) and several research conferences (Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Council Annual Conference, May 21, 2008, Biloxi, Ms;Ecological Society of America, August 5, 2008, Milwaukee, WI; Biennial Southern Silviculture Research Conference, November 17, 2008, Hot Springs, AR). Written reports of preliminary invasive treatment responses were prepared in two technical reports (one for 60 day post-treatment and another for 8 month/early spring post-treatment responses) published by the North Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida. PARTICIPANTS: The principal investigator, Kimberly Bohn, has had the responsibility for overseeing the management and implementation of this project. Primary collaborators who have assisted with implementation of the studies related to harvesting in forested wetlands include: 1) Matt Cohen, Assistant Professor, University of Florida and 2) Jeff Vowell, Florida Division of Forestry. Work on invasive species control and effects to forest species composition has been done in collaboration with Patrick Minogue, Assistant Professor, University of Florida. He is the lead investigator for a separate CRIS- Mc-Intire Stennis project related to vegetation management, where descriptions related to this study are further documented. TARGET AUDIENCES: Not relevant to this project. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Outcomes related to learning and behavior changes have not been formally documented, as the project is just in the formative stages. Several land managers have contacted the principal investigators about results from and future trials related to these studies.

Publications

• Minogue, P.J., K.K. Bohn, and A. Osieka. 2008. Forest disturbance and ecology of Japanese climbing fern (Lygodium japonicum). Ecological Society of America 93rd Annual Conference. Milwaukee, WI. August 5, 2008.
• Bohn, K.K. and P.J. Minogue. 2008. Control of Japanese climbing fern and effects to non-target vegetation using glyphosate, imazapyr, and metsulfuron herbicides in Florida public forests. 15th Biennial Southern Silvicultural Research Conference. Hot Springs, AR. November 17, 2008.
• Bohn, K.K., P.J. Minogue, A. Osieka, and J. McKeithen. 2008. Control of Japanese climbing fern and effects to non-target vegetation following herbicide application in two pine stands disturbed by hurricanes. Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Council Annual Conference. Biloxi, MS. May 21, 2008.
• Minogue, P., K. Bohn, A. Osiecka, J. McKethen. 2008. Herbicide treatments for selective control of Japanese climbing fern (Lygodium japonicum) in Florida natural areas. Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Experiment Station, North Florida Research and Education Center, Quincy, FL, Research Report 2008.07.42 pp.
• Bohn, K.K., P. Minogue, J. McKeithen, A. Osieka, and S. Jones. 2008. Impacts to non-target vegetation during herbicide control of the invasive Japanese climbing fern in forests of northwest Florida. Ecological Society of America 93rd Annual Conference. Milwaukee, WI. Aug 5, 2008.
• Minogue, P., A. Osiecka, and K. Bohn. 2008. Use of low-volume, backpack directed sprays of glyphosate, metsulfuron, and imazapyr herbicides for selective control of Japanese climbing fern(Lygodium japonicum) in Florida natural areas. Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Experiment Station, North Florida Research and Education Center, Quincy, FL, Research Report 2008.03. 2 pp.