Classification and evaluation for forest sites in the Cumberland Mountains

Abstract

This report classifies and evaluates forest sites in the Cumberland Mountains (fig. 1) for the management of several commercially valuable tree species. It provides forest managers with a land classification system that will enable them to subdivide forest land into logical segments (landtypes), allow them to rate productivity, and alert them to any limitations and hazards that the landtypes impose on forest management activities. Though soils information is an integral part of this system, users will not need to identify and classify soils or to make laboratory determinations. This report is oriented to timber production because timber is usually a major management objective. However, landtypes can also be the basis for the management and interpretation of other forest resources. I have drawn freely on much published information on geology, physiography, soils, sites, and yields. In many cases, data specific to this area were not available, so information was extrapolated from adjacent regions. Extrapolation was particularly necessary with productivity data. All sources of data are documented, so the user can gage the accuracy and reliability of the information. Productivity and management problem information is presented in a format that follows the outline used by the Soil Conservation Service (SCSI in the Woodland Suitability sections of county soil surveys. The similarity should facilitate the integration of information contained in county soil surveys' with this classification system. This guide represents the best information and collective judgment now available. Nevertheless, it is still incomplete. I trust that forest managers, after applying this site classification system, will share their experience with me and make me aware of any shortcomings or needed revisions. The rationale and methodology for the development of a site classification system for the Interior Uplands appeared in the proceedings of the Second Central Hardwood Forest Conference (Smalley 1978) and the Forest Soils and Site Quality Workshop (Smalley 1979a). Site classification guides for the Southern Cumberland Plateau, the Western Highland Rim and Pennyroyal, the Mid-Cumberland Plateau, and the Eastern Highland Rim and Pennyroyal Regions have been published (Smalley 1979b. 1980. 1982, 1983).