Regrowth of willow following simulated beaver cutting
-
-
Authors: R. R. Kindschy
Date: 1989
Journal: Wildlife Society Bulletin
Volume: 17
Number: 3
Pages: 290-294
Summary of Methods: Response of red willow trees to simulated beaver herbivory was measured in the Jordan Crater Research Natural Area in southeastern Oregon. Lava flows excluded livestock and beaver from the test population. In early 1982, dimensions of 18 red willow trees in this stand were recorded. Following these measurements, two randomly selected trees from the 18 that were measured were cut down to simulate beaver herbivory. Every two months from March through November, a different pair of trees was cut down. The trees were not re-cut and regrowth was measured every month, except during winter, for two years to determine how timing of beaver herbivory affected willow regrowth.
Article Summary / Main Points: Cut willows nearly regained pre-cutting dimensions after two years. The majority of regrowth occurred over the summer months. Dormant and spring cutting allowed for the most regrowth, while willows cut in the summer did not recover as well. Timing of beaver herbivory is critical for willow regrowth.
Vegetation Types: Riparian and Wetlands
MLRA Ecoregions: 23 Malheur High Plateau
Agrovoc Control Words: Riparian zones Rangelands Wildlife
Article Review Type: Peer Reviewed
Article Type: Experimental Research
Keywords: red willow, salix lasiandra, beaver, castor canadensis, season of use, natural exclosure, regrowth, plant recovery
Annotation: This study is likely applicable to other red willow riparian populations without livestock grazing. The addition of grazing or repeated beaver herbivory could change how willows respond. Another part of this study can be found in Kindschy (1985, J. Wildlife Manage:26-28) also available in the RSIS database.
-
Direct link not available.
-