Title: The spatial distribution of riparian ash: implications for the dispersal of the emerald ash borer

Author: Crocker, Susan J.; Moser, W. Keith; Hansen, Mark H.; Nelson, Mark D.

Year: 2007

Publication: In: McRoberts, Ronald E.; Reams, Gregory A.; Van Deusen, Paul C.; McWilliams, William H., eds. Proceedings of the seventh annual forest inventory and analysis symposium; October 3-6, 2005; Portland, ME. Gen. Tech. Rep. WO-77. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: 155-160.

Abstract: A pilot study to assess riparian ash connectivity and its implications for emerald ash borer dispersal was conducted in three subbasins in Michigan's Southern Lower Peninsula. Forest Inventory and Analysis data were used to estimate ash biomass. The nineteen percent of plots in riparian physiographic classes contained 40 percent of ash biomass. Connectivity of riparian and upland ash was assessed using the spatial pattern analysis program FRAGSTATS. Higher mean proximity and patch cohesion was found among riparian patches. Greater connectivity and high ash biomass in riparian patches may facilitate spread of this insect.