Effects of thinning young forests on chanterelle mushroom production

Abstract

Chanterelle productivity responses were investigated in a replicated, landscape-scale thinning experiment in 50-year-old Douglas-fir stands in the Cascade Range of Oregon. Chanterelle numbers and weight were significantly decreased by thinning the first year after logging, more so in heavily thinned stands than lightly thinned stands for chanterelle numbers. Nearly all evidence of differences in chanterelle productivity among thinning treatment means disappeared within 6 years. Management implications and mitigation measures are discussed.