Decline in values of slash pine stands infected with fusiform rust

Abstract

Losses in product values due to fusiform rust, caused by Cronartium quercuum (Berk.) Miyabe ex Shirai f. sp. fusiforme, were estimated from four, 25-yr-old slash pine, Pinus elliotii Engelm., plantations planted in southern Mississippi over a range of sites with different growth potential and expected rust infection levels. The percentage of infected stems ranged from 25% to 62% at age 25. The conversion-return method (Davis 1966) was used to take into account logging, transportation, and milling costs. Estimated stand values between infected and noninfected stands were compared to determine the losses in product value due to fusiform rust. Decline in estimated stand stumpage values ranged from 5.6% to 15.5% at age 25. Stand stumpage values at age 25 declined 0.26% per 1% increase in stem rust infection at both ages 5 and 25. The strong linear relationship between the percentage of stems infected at age 5 and decline in stand stumpage values provides a useful tool for land managers who need to estimate the reduction in value of slash pine stands at harvest based on rust infection at age 5. Combining this information with estimates of losses from rust-associated mortality and reduced growth of infected stems (from other studies) permits land managers to estimate the value of slash pine stands at harvest at early ages and decide among management alternatives. South. J. Appl. For.