The recurring role of site challenges assumptions about regeneration under selection systems in northern hardwoods

Abstract

In naturally regenerated managed forests, silvicultural methods leverage timing and intensity of harvesting activities to align with species-specific reproduction mechanisms. With contemporary emphasis on complex stand structure and diverse composition, there is uncertainty in the continued use of timber-oriented management practices in meeting evolving objectives. In the northern hardwood region of North America, selection regeneration systems are assumed to result in homogenization of structure and composition through increasing dominance of Acer saccharum Marsh. Given the coupling of soils and vegetation in northern hardwoods, trends in site conditions that may be more resilient/facilitative to community diversity may be of value to silviculturists. Remote sensing products and inventory records were integrated to assess tree communities across site variables in northern Michigan, USA. Results reveal that composition is stabilized by local landforms and diversity increases with hydrologic catchment area. Time since treatment (0-54 years) appeared negatively correlated with catchment area, suggesting lowlands with high diversity are not managed or harvested infrequently, reflecting equipment access and operational logistics. Broad interpretations of selection regeneration systems may be invalidated by the influence of site conditions not previously accounted for, and results highlight a novel technique to capture the effect of topography on species assemblages.