Silvicultural And Direct Control Of Mountain Pine Beetle In Second Growth Ponderosa Pine

Ten-year diameter and basal area growth were determined for partially cut stands at 4 locations. Average diameters in the partially cut plots generally increased by 1 inch or more, while average diameter in the uncut controls increased by 0.9 inches or less. Individual tree growth is discussed in relation to potential susceptibility to mountain pine beetle infestation. Basal area increases ranged from 0.9 to 1.9 ft2/acre/ yr in partially cut plots, while basal area increases in the control plots ranged from 0.4 to 1.4 ft2/acre/yr. Endemic mountain pine beetle infestations and snow breakage accounted for most of the mortality on the plots, which decreased the residual basal area and basal area growth. Increases in basal area are used to estimate the length of time required for various stand densities to reach the susceptibility thresholds for mountain pine beetle infestation. Stand marking may influence future susceptibility to beetle infestations.

This is an open access book. This edited volume discusses topics in environmental economics with a focus on sustainability, conservation, and responsible resource management. Written in memory of Peter Berck, Professor of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of California, Berkeley, the chapters expand upon his insights about the connections between human activities and the natural world. The volume includes a selection of research on agriculture, energy, forestry, fisheries, land use, recycling, and conservation – all parts of the broad question of how natural resources can meet human needs while avoiding environmental degradation. Written from a 21st century perspective, with concerns about climate, renewable energy, biodiversity, and sustainable development, this volume will be of interest to researchers and students of agricultural and resource economics.