Light-growth relationships of conifers on wet and dry sites in the interior rainforests of British Columbia

Unpredictability surrounding climate change has prompted questions about forest productivity and biodiversity. Uncertainties exist regarding the future composition of current ecosystem envelopes, including ICH forests. This study investigated the growth rates of common conifer species under different levels of canopy cover and soil moisture north of Revelstoke, BC. Generally all species showed a negative relationship to increased cover regardless of the soil moisture with the exception of western redcedar (Thuja pilcata Donn ex D. Don) (Cw). Average leader growth of Cw was greater on wet sites with low and moderate levels of canopy cover compared to dry sites. The results of this study suggest that harvest plans can optimize regeneration success by increasing residual stands and planting species in a variety of site conditions to successfully manage potential climate impacts. The establishment and growth of Cw should be encouraged so that the characteristics of the inland rainforest are maintained.

Author dc:creator

• Backman, Danielle

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Negrave, Roderick
• Boydell, Tony
• Noble, Michael-Anne

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/10170/503

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.viurrspace.ca/server/oai/request?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=dim&identifier=oai%3Anull%3A10170%2F503