The document summarizes the effects of drought on tree growth. It discusses how drought can lead to tree death, less growth, and increased stress. Drought stressed trees are more susceptible to pest infestation and have decreased growth and stocking. The document also provides weather data from 2008-2012 at the Southwest Research and Extension Center, and discusses how drought impacts photosynthesis, water flow in trees, and increases tree stress levels making them more vulnerable to pests. It emphasizes the importance of using high quality seedlings, proper storage, handling, planting, and site preparation to improve seedling success during drought.
This document provides an overview and instructions for designing and installing rain gardens in Iowa. It explains that rain gardens are shallow depressions that capture runoff from impervious surfaces and allow it to infiltrate into the soil rather than running off. The key steps covered are evaluating the soil percolation rate through on-site testing, choosing an appropriate location where runoff will drain to the garden, sizing the garden based on the water quality volume, and following best practices for installation and plant selection. The overall goal of rain gardens is to restore the natural hydrologic cycle and reduce runoff to improve water quality.
Soil Moisture Monitoring: Low-Cost Tools and MethodsElisaMendelsohn
This document discusses low-cost tools and methods for monitoring soil moisture levels. It explains that monitoring soil moisture allows irrigators to conserve water, optimize crop yields, and avoid issues like erosion. Various monitoring tools and methods are described, including direct inspection, moisture meters and sensors, and other techniques. Monitoring soil moisture is presented as a key part of sustainable irrigation management.
This document provides information on collecting, storing, and treating rainwater. It discusses the benefits of rainwater harvesting such as being a primary water source, recharging aquifers, and providing water security. Various components of a rainwater harvesting system are described, including collection surfaces, conveyance methods, first flush diverters, storage containers, and pumping systems. Methods for calculating rainfall catchment and storage sizes are presented. Basic maintenance and treatment options like chlorination and filtration are also covered. The overall document serves as a guide for setting up a rainwater harvesting system.
This document is a program for a forest management workshop. It thanks various sponsors at different levels who supported the event, including a premier sponsor, luncheon sponsor, fish fry sponsor, and platinum, gold, and general sponsors. It also advertises a raffle for a Gravely 50-inch zero turn mower with single axle trailer.
- The document summarizes a presentation given to the Arkansas Forestry Association about opportunities in the Arkansas timber industry. It includes summaries from Canfor Corporation, Interfor, and West Fraser about their operations in the southern United States and plans for future expansion and investment. All three companies see the sustainable fiber supply and growing lumber demand in the southern US as opportunities for growth.
Droughts are caused by human activities like driving vehicles and operating factories that increase pollution and decrease oxygen in the air. Droughts negatively impact people by potentially causing malnourishment or starvation as farmers are unable to grow crops without rain to sell food and make money.
This document provides information about studying A-Level Geography at Guildford County School. In the AS level, students study both physical and human geography topics, including river floods, cold environments, coastal environments, hot deserts, population change, food supply issues, energy issues, and health issues. Geographical skills are developed through these topics and fieldwork. At A2 level, students investigate contemporary issues and complete a fieldwork investigation or geographical issues evaluation, choosing from options like plate tectonics, weather and climate, ecosystems, world cities, development, and conflicts. The program aims to develop skills like problem solving, world awareness, data analysis, literacy, numeracy, map reading, and teamwork that are useful for
This document provides an overview and instructions for designing and installing rain gardens in Iowa. It explains that rain gardens are shallow depressions that capture runoff from impervious surfaces and allow it to infiltrate into the soil rather than running off. The key steps covered are evaluating the soil percolation rate through on-site testing, choosing an appropriate location where runoff will drain to the garden, sizing the garden based on the water quality volume, and following best practices for installation and plant selection. The overall goal of rain gardens is to restore the natural hydrologic cycle and reduce runoff to improve water quality.
Soil Moisture Monitoring: Low-Cost Tools and MethodsElisaMendelsohn
This document discusses low-cost tools and methods for monitoring soil moisture levels. It explains that monitoring soil moisture allows irrigators to conserve water, optimize crop yields, and avoid issues like erosion. Various monitoring tools and methods are described, including direct inspection, moisture meters and sensors, and other techniques. Monitoring soil moisture is presented as a key part of sustainable irrigation management.
This document provides information on collecting, storing, and treating rainwater. It discusses the benefits of rainwater harvesting such as being a primary water source, recharging aquifers, and providing water security. Various components of a rainwater harvesting system are described, including collection surfaces, conveyance methods, first flush diverters, storage containers, and pumping systems. Methods for calculating rainfall catchment and storage sizes are presented. Basic maintenance and treatment options like chlorination and filtration are also covered. The overall document serves as a guide for setting up a rainwater harvesting system.
This document is a program for a forest management workshop. It thanks various sponsors at different levels who supported the event, including a premier sponsor, luncheon sponsor, fish fry sponsor, and platinum, gold, and general sponsors. It also advertises a raffle for a Gravely 50-inch zero turn mower with single axle trailer.
- The document summarizes a presentation given to the Arkansas Forestry Association about opportunities in the Arkansas timber industry. It includes summaries from Canfor Corporation, Interfor, and West Fraser about their operations in the southern United States and plans for future expansion and investment. All three companies see the sustainable fiber supply and growing lumber demand in the southern US as opportunities for growth.
Droughts are caused by human activities like driving vehicles and operating factories that increase pollution and decrease oxygen in the air. Droughts negatively impact people by potentially causing malnourishment or starvation as farmers are unable to grow crops without rain to sell food and make money.
This document provides information about studying A-Level Geography at Guildford County School. In the AS level, students study both physical and human geography topics, including river floods, cold environments, coastal environments, hot deserts, population change, food supply issues, energy issues, and health issues. Geographical skills are developed through these topics and fieldwork. At A2 level, students investigate contemporary issues and complete a fieldwork investigation or geographical issues evaluation, choosing from options like plate tectonics, weather and climate, ecosystems, world cities, development, and conflicts. The program aims to develop skills like problem solving, world awareness, data analysis, literacy, numeracy, map reading, and teamwork that are useful for
The document summarizes a panel discussion on forests and drinking water in Arkansas. It introduces the panelists which include representatives from the American Forest Foundation, Beaver Water District, U.S. Endowment for Forests and Communities, and Arkansas State Forester. It then discusses key topics around the importance of forested watersheds for water quality and quantity, how healthy forests benefit drinking water, and the benefits of well-managed forests. The document outlines the goals and actions of the Southeastern Partnership for Forests and Water, including focus areas and partnerships in various states. It provides examples of collaborative partnerships in Arkansas and next steps to enhance education and incentive programs for forest landowners.
This document summarizes trends in the wood supply industry in the U.S. South from 1995-2015. It finds that the export wood pellet market has led to the opening of 16 new pellet mills while some pulp/paper mills have closed. The growth of the pellet industry has increased demand for wood removals, especially pine, but overall removals have remained steady as a percentage of the total forest inventory. The increased demand from pellet mills has contributed to higher pulpwood and residual prices in the region.
The document discusses the importance of forests for source water protection. It focuses on the Beaver Water District, which provides water to over 330,000 customers from Beaver Lake. Maintaining forests in the Beaver Lake watershed through source water protection programs provides significant economic and public health benefits, according to a 2016 study. The study found that source water protection has a net present value of $125 million and a benefit-cost ratio of 1.4.
Forests and Drinking Water
The Arkansas Forestry Commission's mission is to protect Arkansas's forests from wildfires and natural hazards while promoting forest health, stewardship, and conservation. The Commission's vision is that Arkansas's healthy rural and urban forests provide clean air and water as well as economic and social benefits. Over half of Arkansas is forested, there are nearly 12 billion trees in the state, and the timber is growing faster than it is being harvested, helping to ensure clean drinking water for Arkansans.
The document appears to be information for a biomass panel at the 2016 Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Forestry Association. It lists Donna Harman as the President and CEO of the American Forest & Paper Association who will be speaking. Additional details on the association and how to follow them online are provided.
The document discusses the political and business climate in Arkansas based on polling data. It outlines polling results showing support for various 2016 candidates including Donald Trump and Senator John Boozman. It also lists levels of support for policy issues like medical marijuana, casinos, and tort reform. The document concludes with information on how to contact the group for questions.
This presentation discusses investing in the US South lumber industry. It provides an overview of Interfor's operations in the region, which have grown significantly through acquisitions over the past few years. The presentation notes that lumber demand in North America is expected to increase due to rising US housing starts, particularly in the South. It also states that while log supply is constrained in Canada, log inventory is growing in the US South, making it well positioned for future lumber demand growth.
This document discusses apps, maps, and drones for forest landowners and managers. It provides an overview of mapping and logging apps that can be used with GPS receivers and drones for forestry applications like inventory, inspections, and mapping. Specific apps and hardware are highlighted, such as the 4Loads logging app and Trimble PG200 GPS. It also reviews the desktop mapping program Terrain Navigator Pro and current FAA regulations for commercial drone use.
1) Objective timber management using data-driven decisions can lead to higher financial returns from forestry.
2) Conducting thorough inventories that track individual tree details and using growth and yield models allows foresters to objectively evaluate and compare the financial impacts of different management regimes.
3) Properly thinning stands based on tree quality instead of just size can significantly increase timber value by producing more high-quality sawtimber over the rotation.
The document discusses the importance of forest management on public lands and proposes solutions to challenges facing forest management. It notes that the US forest products industry supports over 390,000 jobs and $19 billion in payroll. National Forests are only cutting 46.6% of their allowable harvest levels. It analyzes how current laws and litigation have reduced forest management and led to increased wildfire risks. The document advocates passing the Resilient Federal Forests Act to streamline forest management decisions and address wildfire funding issues.
This document discusses several topics related to wood demand, timber supplies, and wood markets in the United States and Canada, including:
1) US wood pellet plant capacity is exceeding export demand.
2) Demand for pulpwood and chips is discussed for the Southern US by hardwood and softwood categories.
3) Forest inventory statistics are shown for private lands in the Eugene, Oregon market.
4) Canadian softwood sawmill capacity and wood supply statistics are shown from 2006-2014.
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive functioning. Exercise boosts blood flow, releases endorphins, and promotes changes in the brain which help enhance one's emotional well-being and mental clarity.
The document provides an overview of ArborGen, a global leader in tree improvement and seedling production. It discusses ArborGen's operations worldwide and its major repository of pine germplasm and technology built from over 100 years of tree improvement research. The document also looks ahead to the next 70 years, highlighting how genetics will be at the forefront of driving increases in forestry productivity through the use of mass controlled pollination and varietals.
The document discusses the Endangered Species Act and the Fish and Wildlife Service's workload in listing threatened and endangered species. It notes that over 1,500 species are currently listed in the U.S., including 38 in Arkansas. The Service faces a tremendous and increasing workload in reviewing species status and responding to petitions. It is working to improve transparency, incentivize voluntary conservation efforts, and engage states more fully. Proposed regulatory changes include revisions to the petition process and clarifying critical habitat designations. The Service also discusses using 4(d) rules to exempt beneficial activities for threatened species, providing examples for the black pine snake and northern long-eared bat.
This document discusses Zilkha Biomass Fuels' production of a proprietary wood pellet called Zilkha Black pellets. The pellets are produced through a thermal conditioning process that makes them harder and more resistant to water than conventional white pellets. This allows the black pellets to be used directly as a replacement for coal in existing coal-fired power plants with minimal modifications needed. The document provides an overview of Zilkha's operations and details of the thermal conditioning process. It also discusses markets for industrial wood pellets in Europe and Asia driven by policies to reduce emissions, and challenges facing the industrial pellet sector in the US.
This document discusses hunting leases, including:
- Factors that determine lease rates such as habitat quality, trophy potential, and amenities. Deer lease rates average $10-15/acre. Waterfowl lease rates are as high as $14,000 for 200 acres.
- Components that should be included in a written hunting lease contract such as property description, duration, payment terms, rules of use, insurance requirements, and liability provisions.
- Ways for landowners to manage risk through proper lease agreements and insurance. Landowner liability depends on whether the person entering the property is a trespasser, licensee, or invitee.
This document summarizes information about forest insect pests and diseases that affect pine and hardwood trees in the southeastern United States. It discusses several bark beetle species that attack pine trees, including the southern pine beetle, turpentine beetle, and Ips beetles. Symptoms and management strategies are provided for dealing with bark beetle infestations. The document also covers the emerald ash borer, an invasive pest affecting ash trees, and the red oak borer, a native insect impacting oak trees. Finally, it briefly mentions some defoliators, leaf insects, and the hypoxlon canker disease affecting hardwoods in the region.
This document provides information and advice for landowners on marketing timber sales. It discusses factors to consider like taxes, utilizing professional help, preparing clear maps and inventories. Timing of sales is important as is allowing sufficient contract time. Clearcuts may generate higher prices than selective cuts. Record keeping on timber basis is also advised. The overall message is that planning and preparing a professional sale makes the timber as attractive as possible to buyers.
The document summarizes a panel discussion on forests and drinking water in Arkansas. It introduces the panelists which include representatives from the American Forest Foundation, Beaver Water District, U.S. Endowment for Forests and Communities, and Arkansas State Forester. It then discusses key topics around the importance of forested watersheds for water quality and quantity, how healthy forests benefit drinking water, and the benefits of well-managed forests. The document outlines the goals and actions of the Southeastern Partnership for Forests and Water, including focus areas and partnerships in various states. It provides examples of collaborative partnerships in Arkansas and next steps to enhance education and incentive programs for forest landowners.
This document summarizes trends in the wood supply industry in the U.S. South from 1995-2015. It finds that the export wood pellet market has led to the opening of 16 new pellet mills while some pulp/paper mills have closed. The growth of the pellet industry has increased demand for wood removals, especially pine, but overall removals have remained steady as a percentage of the total forest inventory. The increased demand from pellet mills has contributed to higher pulpwood and residual prices in the region.
The document discusses the importance of forests for source water protection. It focuses on the Beaver Water District, which provides water to over 330,000 customers from Beaver Lake. Maintaining forests in the Beaver Lake watershed through source water protection programs provides significant economic and public health benefits, according to a 2016 study. The study found that source water protection has a net present value of $125 million and a benefit-cost ratio of 1.4.
Forests and Drinking Water
The Arkansas Forestry Commission's mission is to protect Arkansas's forests from wildfires and natural hazards while promoting forest health, stewardship, and conservation. The Commission's vision is that Arkansas's healthy rural and urban forests provide clean air and water as well as economic and social benefits. Over half of Arkansas is forested, there are nearly 12 billion trees in the state, and the timber is growing faster than it is being harvested, helping to ensure clean drinking water for Arkansans.
The document appears to be information for a biomass panel at the 2016 Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Forestry Association. It lists Donna Harman as the President and CEO of the American Forest & Paper Association who will be speaking. Additional details on the association and how to follow them online are provided.
The document discusses the political and business climate in Arkansas based on polling data. It outlines polling results showing support for various 2016 candidates including Donald Trump and Senator John Boozman. It also lists levels of support for policy issues like medical marijuana, casinos, and tort reform. The document concludes with information on how to contact the group for questions.
This presentation discusses investing in the US South lumber industry. It provides an overview of Interfor's operations in the region, which have grown significantly through acquisitions over the past few years. The presentation notes that lumber demand in North America is expected to increase due to rising US housing starts, particularly in the South. It also states that while log supply is constrained in Canada, log inventory is growing in the US South, making it well positioned for future lumber demand growth.
This document discusses apps, maps, and drones for forest landowners and managers. It provides an overview of mapping and logging apps that can be used with GPS receivers and drones for forestry applications like inventory, inspections, and mapping. Specific apps and hardware are highlighted, such as the 4Loads logging app and Trimble PG200 GPS. It also reviews the desktop mapping program Terrain Navigator Pro and current FAA regulations for commercial drone use.
1) Objective timber management using data-driven decisions can lead to higher financial returns from forestry.
2) Conducting thorough inventories that track individual tree details and using growth and yield models allows foresters to objectively evaluate and compare the financial impacts of different management regimes.
3) Properly thinning stands based on tree quality instead of just size can significantly increase timber value by producing more high-quality sawtimber over the rotation.
The document discusses the importance of forest management on public lands and proposes solutions to challenges facing forest management. It notes that the US forest products industry supports over 390,000 jobs and $19 billion in payroll. National Forests are only cutting 46.6% of their allowable harvest levels. It analyzes how current laws and litigation have reduced forest management and led to increased wildfire risks. The document advocates passing the Resilient Federal Forests Act to streamline forest management decisions and address wildfire funding issues.
This document discusses several topics related to wood demand, timber supplies, and wood markets in the United States and Canada, including:
1) US wood pellet plant capacity is exceeding export demand.
2) Demand for pulpwood and chips is discussed for the Southern US by hardwood and softwood categories.
3) Forest inventory statistics are shown for private lands in the Eugene, Oregon market.
4) Canadian softwood sawmill capacity and wood supply statistics are shown from 2006-2014.
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive functioning. Exercise boosts blood flow, releases endorphins, and promotes changes in the brain which help enhance one's emotional well-being and mental clarity.
The document provides an overview of ArborGen, a global leader in tree improvement and seedling production. It discusses ArborGen's operations worldwide and its major repository of pine germplasm and technology built from over 100 years of tree improvement research. The document also looks ahead to the next 70 years, highlighting how genetics will be at the forefront of driving increases in forestry productivity through the use of mass controlled pollination and varietals.
The document discusses the Endangered Species Act and the Fish and Wildlife Service's workload in listing threatened and endangered species. It notes that over 1,500 species are currently listed in the U.S., including 38 in Arkansas. The Service faces a tremendous and increasing workload in reviewing species status and responding to petitions. It is working to improve transparency, incentivize voluntary conservation efforts, and engage states more fully. Proposed regulatory changes include revisions to the petition process and clarifying critical habitat designations. The Service also discusses using 4(d) rules to exempt beneficial activities for threatened species, providing examples for the black pine snake and northern long-eared bat.
This document discusses Zilkha Biomass Fuels' production of a proprietary wood pellet called Zilkha Black pellets. The pellets are produced through a thermal conditioning process that makes them harder and more resistant to water than conventional white pellets. This allows the black pellets to be used directly as a replacement for coal in existing coal-fired power plants with minimal modifications needed. The document provides an overview of Zilkha's operations and details of the thermal conditioning process. It also discusses markets for industrial wood pellets in Europe and Asia driven by policies to reduce emissions, and challenges facing the industrial pellet sector in the US.
This document discusses hunting leases, including:
- Factors that determine lease rates such as habitat quality, trophy potential, and amenities. Deer lease rates average $10-15/acre. Waterfowl lease rates are as high as $14,000 for 200 acres.
- Components that should be included in a written hunting lease contract such as property description, duration, payment terms, rules of use, insurance requirements, and liability provisions.
- Ways for landowners to manage risk through proper lease agreements and insurance. Landowner liability depends on whether the person entering the property is a trespasser, licensee, or invitee.
This document summarizes information about forest insect pests and diseases that affect pine and hardwood trees in the southeastern United States. It discusses several bark beetle species that attack pine trees, including the southern pine beetle, turpentine beetle, and Ips beetles. Symptoms and management strategies are provided for dealing with bark beetle infestations. The document also covers the emerald ash borer, an invasive pest affecting ash trees, and the red oak borer, a native insect impacting oak trees. Finally, it briefly mentions some defoliators, leaf insects, and the hypoxlon canker disease affecting hardwoods in the region.
This document provides information and advice for landowners on marketing timber sales. It discusses factors to consider like taxes, utilizing professional help, preparing clear maps and inventories. Timing of sales is important as is allowing sufficient contract time. Clearcuts may generate higher prices than selective cuts. Record keeping on timber basis is also advised. The overall message is that planning and preparing a professional sale makes the timber as attractive as possible to buyers.
3. Drought and
Established Trees
• Stress leading often to pest infestation
• Decreased growth
• Decreased stocking
• Changes in vegetation
- Ecotone movement between prairie and
forest
- Elimination of mesic species on xeric sites
4. Weather Pattern
for SWREC
• Two years of record rain
- Decreased root growth during wet
periods Increased top growth during wet
-
periods
• Two years of severe drought
- Need more roots and less top during drought
• One year moderate drought
• Result: Tree stress and pest
infection
5. 2008 Rainfall
70
Inches 60
50
40
Cum Total
30 Cum Normal
20
10
0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
6. 2009 Rainfall
90
Inches 80
70
60
50
Cum Total
40 Cum Normal
30
20
10
0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
7. 2010 Rainfall
60
Inches 50
40
Cum Total
30
Cum Normal
20
10
0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
11. Water Flow
Water Flow impacted
by wind, temperature,
and humidity.
Water Flow
controlled by
stomates
There is still flow
when stomates
Water moves are closed
through xylem
Water Holding Capacity of Soil
Depth of Soil
12. Effect of Drought
on Photosynthesis
• Decreasing water availability decreases
photosynthesis
• Decreasing production of carbohydrates
• Less growth
- Less roots
• Less production of “natural pesticides”
13. What is Tree Stress
• Trees subject to less than ideal growing
conditions.
• Strain (reduction or change in function)
- Elastic Strain
- Plastic Strain
Off-site
14. Stress and Pests
• Reduced photosynthesis and increased
respiration lends to depleted energy
• Lack of energy leads to the lack of
resistance to pests
• Trees succumb to repeated attacks
or are not able to compartmentalize
• pest
Process can last decades
15. Stress and Pests
• Hypoxylon canker
• Bark beetles
• Root weevils and leptographium
16. Managing Older
Stands
• Maintain vigor
- Thin when thinning is needed
- Control competing vegetation
• Recognize financial and biological maturity
18. Seedling Quality
• All nurseries in Arkansas produce quality
seedlings.
• What is a quality seedling?
- Fibrous root system
- Pronounced terminal bud
- Secondary needles
- Proper caliper
- Dormant
19. Proper Storage
• Stored in a cooler and planted directly
from the cooler
• If not kept in a cooler
- Don’t leave in sun
- Don’t leave in truck
• Increasing temperatures increase respiration
which decrease energy reserves
20. Proper Planting
Conditions
• Don’t Plant with Poor Soil Moisture.
• Don’t Plant at Temperatures > 60o
• Don’t Plant at Wind Speeds > 15
mph.
22. Planting
• Tight and deep!
- Beyond the root collar
- As long as the terminal bud is above the ground
- Don’t be over-concerned with root deformation
- Vertical not at an angle
23. Strategy to Improve
Success
• Site preparation
- Debris removal
- Tillage
• Vegetation control
- More water
• Containerized seedlings
- Fall planting
25. Ford’s Axiom
• When environmental conditions are
good, the little things matter a little.
• When environmental conditions are
bad, the little things matter a lot.
The drought conditions we have had the last two years, really most of the last decade, have caused some anxiety among landowners and foresters about how the drought will impact forestry and the productivity of our forests.Does drought impact forest productivity and forest management?I don’t think there is any question that it does.But those impacts can be minor and short-term, i.e. less than 100 years.Will drought prevent us from practicing forestry and kill forest productivity?No. I hope those are not the infamous “Famous Last Words.”
As we all have seen, drought leaves evidence. Some of it is easy to see, some not so easy.We’ve all see the evidence of drought.ClickWe see trees dying. We regularly get calls about yard trees dying, but as you drive the highways look at the forests. You’ll see trees dying there, too.ClickOne of the impacts that is more difficult to see is the reduced growth. Trees need water to grow. Drought = less water = less growthClickDrought impacts tree ring size and spacing which can impact wood quality.ClickWe also will see an increase in stress that forests have to deal with.
All of those impacts have consequences for our forests. As a result we should expect to see from drought:Stress – Drought causes stress for landowners when they become concerned about losing their forests. It also causes stress for forests which can lead to increased rates of pest infestation.ClickDrought results in decreased forest growthClickDrought results in some tree mortality within forests, so stocking rates may decreaseClickDrought results in changes in vegetation.Climate has implications for the vegetation that a site will support. Short-term climate changes cause changes in vegetation. The boundary between the Great Plains and the Eastern Deciduous Forest has always fluctuated. Our forest vegetation has not always been what it is now. That is the result of changes in rainfall patterns and other factors such as fire suppression.ClickCurrently we see plants requiring moist sites surviving on sites that historically have been dry. They are off-site. A little reduction in rainfall will push those plants over the edge.
Our weather patterns have been more stressful on trees than simple drought. At the Southwest Research and Extension Center we have seen:ClickTwo years of abnormally high rainfallclickWhen water is available, trees don’t produce as much root because they don’t need to.ClickThey also grow more crown because the water is available to support more crown.ClickTwo years of abnormally low rainfallClickWhen less water is available, trees need more root to get enough water; but they also need less crown.ClickA year of moderately low rainfallClickThe result of that combination of years is stress. Trees grew larger crowns when water was easy to get. Now they can’t support the larger crowns.Result is stress, pest infestation, and tree death.
In 2008 we recorded higher than normal rainfall at SWREC.By the end of the year we were about 10 inches above normal.
In 2009 we recorded much higher than normal rainfall.By the end of the year we were nearly 30 inches above normal.Trees were fat and sassy, putting on crown like the rain would never end.
Then in 2010 the rainfall stopped.20 inches below normal.
In 2011 rainfall was 15 inches below normal.
So far in 2012 at least in southwest Arkansas we are only a little below normal. Central Arkansas is in much worse shape than we are.The result of that particular rainfall pattern is about what we would expect.Increased stress on our forests. Greater risk of pest problems. Tree mortality.
Why is water so important to trees? Same reason it is important to us.Water is the solvent that allows physiological reactions (photosynthesis and respiration) to occur.Water also serves as a reactant in photosynthesis and respiration.Photosynthesis requires sunlight and water and contributes to energy storage in the tree.Respiration requires water and energy, but as the temperature increases so does the respiration rate, thus requiring more water and energy.Trees must maintain a positive energy balance, i.e. make more than they use. Negative energy balances for too long will result in tree death.
How much water does a tree need? Large yard trees can use as much as 250 gallons a day. Forest trees have smaller crowns, so they use less water.Where does that water go?Most of the water is used by and lost from the leaves because of photosynthesis.Photosynthesis requires carbon dioxide. That carbon dioxide must get into the leaf where it can be used.Leaves have small pores called stomates that allow gas exchange – CO2 in and O2 out. But the interior of the leaf must be moist for the CO2 to be absorbed by the leaf cells so that photosynthesis can occur.One of the consequences of having those stomates open so that gas exchange can occur is that water vapor can escape through the stomates. Trees can regulate how much water is lost through the stomates by opening or closing the stomates. When the stomates close to reduce water loss, that also reduces gas exchange which reduces photosynthesis which reduces the energy produced which creates a negative energy balance.Trees must strike a fine balance between water lost and energy produced.For trees to continue photosynthesis, water that is lost from the leaves must be replaced by water from the soil.Drought results in less available soil water.Drought can push a tree into a negative energy balance.
Drought impacts photosynthesis. When less water is available, less photosynthesis occurs.When less photosynthesis occurs, less carbohydrate is produced. Carbohydrates = energy.When less energy is available, less new growth is produced. That includes less root growth.Less energy also means less production of those chemicals, “natural pesticides,” that keep the pests at bay.
What do we mean by “stress” as it relates to forests?ClickStress is the result of changes the tree must make to deal with less than ideal growing conditions.ClickChanges that a tree must make to deal with less than ideal growing conditions result in strain. In a sense, it must start pushing uphill to get things done.ClickThere are two degrees of strain.ClickElastic strain is a strain from which the tree can recover. Example: plant in a flower pot. No water = wilt, water it and it recovers.ClickPlastic strain is a strain from which the tree cannot recover. Example: my prickly pear cactus that Mom killedClickAll trees at some point deal with elastic strain. Something strains the tree, strain is removed and the tree recovers.If we see trees hitting the point of plastic strain, the tree probably should not have been on that site to start with.
How does drought stress impact a tree’s ability to deal with pests?ClickRemember, we talked about the impact of stress on photosynthesis. Drought stress reduces photosynthesis and pushes the tree’s energy balance toward the negative.ClickThat means that less energy is available for those physiological process that help keep pests out of the tree.ClickThe weakened resistance results in an increase in successful attacks from pests.ClickThe resulting decline process can last from a few years to several decades.
We should expect to see an increase in several pests.ClickHypoxylon canker.ClickBark beetles.ClickAnd root weevils and leptographium fungus in the roots.
We can manage stands to help them survive drought.ClickKeep the stand healthyClickWe have two tools to accomplish that:ClickFirst – thin the stand when it needs thinning. Have your consulting forester examine the stand to determine whether it needs to be thinned to survive the drought.ClickSecond – control the vegetation that is competing for water with your crop.ClickRecognize that the time to harvest your stand depends on the financial maturity, i.e. how quickly that stand is gaining value. Drought will impact how quickly the stand gains value. Talk to your consulting forester about whether the stand is ready to harvest.
We’ve been talking about managing mature stands. Let’s change gears a bit and talk about planting seedlings.We’ve been getting questions about planting failures and about whether people should plant trees now.Should seedlings be planted at all during drought? The answer is it depends.ClickHow do we insure success?I’m going to point out some thing we can do.ClickDo we plan for failure during drought years?We might need to recognize that success will be limited on some sites or under some conditions.
The first consideration is seedling quality. During a stressful year, you won’t get good survival with poor quality seedlings.ClickPeople ask me sometime to recommend a nursery where they can buy the best seedlings. All of the nurseries in Arkansas produce good quality seedlings. All of them also produce some lesser quality seedlings. The quality depends partly on how much you want to spend. There isn’t one best nursery. Different seedling lines perform best on different sites. The seedling needs to be matched to the site. Talk to your consulting forester about what is best for you.ClickThere are some things you can look for that will indicate seedlings in good condition.ClickThe seedlings should have a well developed fibrous root system. A good tap root is not bad, but the fibrous roots absorb the water.ClickThe terminal bud needs to be well developed and in good condition.ClickThe seedlings needs to have developed secondary needles. You can identify the secondary needles because they will be in bundles of two or three. Primary needles are solitary.ClickThe seedlings need to have developed good diameter. Runts of the litter are less likely to survive.ClickThe seedlings need to be dormant – even pine seedlings. If the seedlings have started to grow before they are planted, their root system will not be able to supply the water a growing seedling will need.
We need to consider seedling storage. Part of properly handling seedlings is storing them properly. How is that done?ClickStore seedlings in a cooler. A refrigerated truck is nice, but most of us don’t have one.ClickOften a cooler will not be available at the planting site.ClickDon’t store seedlings in the sun. Remember, when the sun moves, the shade moves.ClickDon’t leave seedlings in a truck. Under a truck is Ok. In a truck is not so good.ClickWe emphasize keeping seedlings cool because when temperature increases, respiration increases. When respiration increases, energy reserves are used up.
We need to consider environmental conditions at the time we plant seedligns. Let proper planting conditions dictate your planting schedule.ClickDon’t plant when the soil is excessively dry. Seedlings need water. If it isn’t there, survival will be poor. Remember, earlier I said there might be times that you want to put off planting for a year.ClickDon’t plant trees on warm days. We like warm late winter days. Seedlings don’t.ClickDon’t plant on windy days. Wind dries out the seedling roots while the tree planters are handling them.
We need to consider how we handle seedllings. Seedlings need to be handled properly while they are being planted.ClickPlanters should remove only one tree at a time from the planting bag. When seedlings are out of the protection of that planting bag, the roots are exposed and will dry out.ClickNever prune or knock soil off the seedling roots. Over and over I’ve seen tree planters want to cut off some of the fibrous roots to make the seedling easier to plant. The seedling needs those roots. I’ve also seen tree planters beat the seedling roots over a truck bumper to knock the loose soil off. Both of those actions will damage roots and reduce seedling survival.
We need to consider how that seedling is being set in the soil.ClickThe critical factor for seedling survival is soil moisture. The deeper the seedling is planted, the more water is can get.Soil needs to be pressed firmly around the roots of the seedling. Roots in air pockets will not absorb water.ClickHow deep is too deep? As long as the terminal bud is above ground, you’re in good shape.Foresters used to recommend planting the seedling root collar 2 or 3 inches below the soil surface. Now we tell people that 6 inches is not too much.The critical factor is to get those seedling roots into soil that will stay moist through the summer.ClickJ-rooting used to be considered a death sentence for a pine seedling. Research has shown that it wasn’t the J-rooting itself that killed seedlings. The J-rooting resulted in shallow roots that dried out. ClickSeedlings need to be vertical in the planting hole. Angled seedlings have roots that are not planted deeply enough. Planters need to use dibbles that are in good condition and need to use them properly.
There are things we can do and choices we can make before and after the planting job to improve seedling survival.ClickGood site preparation improves seedling survival.Good site preparation does a couple of things for us.clickFirst, it gets debris out of the way so the tree planters can do a better job.clickSecond, tillage provides a volume of loose soil that the seedling can quickly grow roots into.ClickControl weedy competition. That makes more water available to the seedlings. Partial weed control can yield a 20 % increase in soil moisture. Complete weed control can yield a 50% increase in soil moisture.ClickConsider containerized seedlings. They are typically planted in late fall instead of late winter. They have 2 or 3 extra months to develop good root systems before the stress of spring sets in.
Sometimes people look for the easy way to successfully plant trees during a drought.ClickThe thinking is that planting more trees will compensate for lower survival rates. On the surface that makes some sense, but it is based on the assumption that survival rates will be lower. The reality is that survival rates might be lower or they might not.What happens if the rain starts and survival is good?ClickYou now have an overstocked stand that probably will require a precommercial thinning – an added expense before the stand can generate an income.You will be better off if you pay attention to the details of doing a proper planting job. If you can’t get good survival with a proper planting job, planting more seedlings won’t solve the problem.
Dr. Ford has developed an axiom to live by if you plant trees.Click[read]Click[read]