Tree growth on forested wetlands of Southeastern Alaska following clearcutting

Abstract

Growth of forested wetlands was investigated in this southeast Alaskan study. Eighteen young, even-aged stands dominated by western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) and Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) rooted in wet, organic soils (Histosols) were sampled. The soils were Cryohemists and Cryosaprists ranging in depth from 38 cm to more than 2 m. The stands were naturally regenerated, densely stocked, and had wood-volume production ranging from 12 to 78 m3/ha for 15- and 46-yr-old stands, respectively. These production rates are consistent with those estimated using a regional growth and yield model and applied in Tongass National Forest planning. If observed rates of growth are sustained, these stands would produce wood volume at a level nearly double the USDA Forest Service minimum standard for commercial timberland at culmination of mean annual increment.