Effects of Single Tree Selection Harvests on Stand Structure, Species Composition, and Understory Tree Growth in a Sierra Mixed Conifer Forest

Abstract

Abstract After 20-28 years of single tree selection harvests in initially irregular even-aged stands, stand structure is approaching a target uneven-aged diameter distribution. Seedling stocking in managed stands is nearly three times greater than that of unmanaged stands. Although shade-tolerant species comprise the bulk of most size classes in both managed and unmanaged stands, selection harvests have resulted in adequate quantities of seedlings from all five conifer species, including pines. In managed stands, current small-tree stocking and rates of growth appear adequate to sustain single tree selection harvests over much of a 90-year growth simulation. Simulated peak growth rates of uneven-aged stands compare favorably with actual and anticipated yields from the forest's uneven- and even-aged stands. West. J. Appl. For. 5(2):43-47, April 1990.