Theses and Dissertations

Advisor

Granger, Joshua J.

Committee Member

Poudel, Krishna P.

Committee Member

Self, Andrew Brady

Committee Member

Ezell, Andrew W.

Date of Degree

8-13-2024

Original embargo terms

Immediate Worldwide Access

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Open Access

Major

Forestry

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Forest Resources

Department

Department of Forestry

Abstract

Degradation and deforestation have taken their toll on bottomland hardwood forests in the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley (LMAV). To combat this, many managers, both public and private, have sought silvicultural techniques to ensure future generations have the benefits bottomland hardwoods provide. In the first study of this thesis, artificial regeneration and chemical thinning were implemented to evaluate the effects of these treatments on restoration and enrichment of bottomland hardwoods. Very high mortality rates were seen across all species and sites likely due to improper handling and planting, drought, and competition. The second study explored the feasibility of transplanting bottomland oaks via tree spade that were pruned, topped, or cut at stump height for coppice. The initial establishment results are promising. These projects could potentially provide landowners with the tools and knowledge needed to restore and enhance some of the LMAV’s most unique habitats.

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