Patterns of maximum and minimum air and soil temperatures near a forest edge

Abstract

The patterns of maximum and minimum air and soil temperatures were investigated outward from a west facing forest edge, through a stand of pioneer shrub (broom) to an open field. The study included the period May–October 1970. Summer maximum air temperatures were generally higher near, but not at, the forest edge; especially over the raised radiative surface of the broom. Minimum air temperatures were highest near the forest edge in both summer and fall and were lowest over the raised broom surface. Maximum soil temperatures were warmest near the open field where greater exposure to solar radiation was a major controlling factor. Summer minimum soil temperatures were highest in the open field, those of the fall under the protective broom cover. A cut through the broom produced some interesting effects and acted as a miniature frost pocket.