Title: Growth patterns of Tsuga canadensis in managed uneven-aged northern conifer stands

Author: Kenefic, Laura S.; Seymour, Robert S.

Year: 2000

Publication: In: McManus, Katherine A.; Shields, Kathleen S.; Souto, Dennis R., eds. Proceedings: Symposium on sustainable management of hemlock ecosystems in eastern North America. Gen. Tech. Rep. NE-267. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiment Station. 29-33.

Abstract: This study reports patterns of regeneration and growth for 100 eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis (L.) Carr.) up to 20 inches (50 cm) dbh in two mixed-species selection stands on the Penobscot Experimental Forest in east-central Maine. The study stands are part of a U.S.D.A. Forest Service experiment in which eastern hemlock has remained stable over a 40-year period despite efforts to favor other species. Relative to red spruce (Picea rubens Sarg.) and balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.), eastern hemlock exhibits different growth patterns and canopy structures in response to frequent light partial disturbances. These characteristics, along with frequent and abundant regeneration, make eastern hemlock very well-suited to the selection system in this forest type.