Harvard Forest Research

Canopy structural dynamics in forests simulating and managing for effects of HWA

Principal Investigator: John Weishampel
University of Central Florida: Sep 20 2005 - Aug 20 2030:

Abstract:
We propose to initiate a multiple-year study to quantify canopy structural dynamics in experimental plots designed to simulate effects of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) and management treatments to control this pest. Using a portable upward-looking LiDAR system, we will measure the volumetric properties of the forest canopy in the intensive 30 x 30 m study plots within larger 90 x 90 m experimental treatments and control areas. This will entail running 31, temporary 30 m transects spaced two meters apart through each of the eight plots (two replicates of the four treatments: 1) control, 2) hardwood control, 3) commercial harvesting and 4) hemlock girdling). The LiDAR system will be carried along the transect, recording distance to vertical surface interceptions. These measures will be transformed to adjust for obfuscation following MacArthur and Horn (1971) and Parker et al. (2004). This will provide a volumetric view of the canopy which should be complementary to the hemispherical canopy images being collected. We hope to collect these data prior to and after leaf abscission in 2005 and then prior to leaf off during the next three to five years.: