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Author(s):
Wayne D. Shepperd
Year Published:

Cataloging Information

Topic(s):
Fire Effects
Ecological - Second Order
Vegetation
Fuels
Fuel Treatments & Effects
Ecosystem(s):
Aspen woodland

NRFSN number: 11882
FRAMES RCS number: 13632
Record updated:

Vegetative regeneration of aspen can be initiated through manipulations that provide hormonal stimulation, proper growth environment, and sucker protection - the three elements of the aspen regeneration triangle. The correct course of action depends upon a careful evaluation of the size, vigor, age, and successional status of the existing clone. Soils and site productivity, competition from other plants, and the potential impact of browsing animals upon new regeneration should also be considered. Treatments may include doing nothing, commercial harvest, prescribed fire, mechanical root stimulation, removal of competing vegetation, protection of regeneration from herbivory, and in limited circumstances, regenerating aspen from seed.

Citation

Shepperd, Wayne D.A. 2001. Manipulations to regenerate aspen ecosystems. In: Shepperd, Wayne D.; Binkley, Dan; Bartos, Dale L.; Stohlgren, Thomas J.; Eskew, Lane G., comps. Sustaining aspen in western landscapes: symposium proceedings; 2000 June 13-15; Grand Junction, CO. Proceedings RMRS-P-18. Fort Collins, CO: USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 355-366.