Funny River Fire, Alaska
The Funny River fire in Alaska has reached 7,000 acres and is spreading along the shore, with no evacuations reported. Crews are working to contain the fire, which is being fueled by low humidity.
Forestry
Articles tagged with Forestry
With climate changing, southern plants outperform northern
A study shows that strains from Southern Europe can grow better in Northern Europe than established local varieties due to rapid climate change. This suggests that the adaptive optimum has moved quickly, with southern imports performing better across different locations.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 20, 2014
Excessive deer populations hurt native plant biodiversity
A study by University of Pittsburgh researcher Susan Kalisz found that high deer densities are the primary reason for garlic mustard's takeover in native plant species, such as trillium. By excluding deer, native plants can repel invaders and increase their populations.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2014
Don't fear the dawn of the drones; someday 1 might save your life, thanks to UC research
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are developing unique approaches to drone autopilot systems, enabling them to track missing persons, navigate through smoke during wildfires, and deliver packages. The technology has the potential to save lives and provide significant time- and cost-efficiencies for first responders.
Saving Fiji's coral reefs linked to forest conservation upstream
A new study by Wildlife Conservation Society reveals that protecting Fiji's forests near the sea is crucial for preserving coral reefs. The study found that terrestrial protected areas benefit both land and coastal ecosystems, highlighting the importance of integrated planning.
Pine plantations provide optimum conditions for natural forests to develop underneath them
Native forests have been found to recolonize pine plantations without human intervention, thanks to the natural process of ecological succession. This research suggests that pine plantations can be used as a tool for encouraging native forest development in certain areas, particularly when the plantations are older.
In Nepal, villagers' land uses help people and tigers, study finds
A new study by Neil Carter found that when Nepalese villagers are given control over local land management decisions, it benefits both people and tigers. The researchers showed that tigers prefer grasslands near water, which flow into nearby forests or grassy cover.
Habitat research methods give a new peek at tiger life with conservation
Researchers found that Chitwan National Park's buffer zone has improved tiger habitat quality through innovative monitoring methods, while the park itself has degraded over a 20-year period. Camera traps combined with satellite images provided insights into tigers' behavior and habitat preferences.
Rim Fire Update Aug. 26, 2013
The Rim Fire continues to burn in northeastern California, affecting over 224 square miles of land. The fire's size and spread are hampered by inaccessible terrain and extreme weather conditions, making containment efforts challenging.
Scientists uncover the secret life of frozen soils
Researchers studied the effects of winter processes on soil in seasonally frozen soils, finding that freeze-thaw cycles can impact agricultural productivity. The studies also shed light on the importance of understanding these processes for effective management practices.
Using fire to manage fire-prone regions around the world
The article explores the use of prescribed burning in various regions, including the US, Australia, South America, and southern Europe, to manage fire-prone landscapes. It highlights successful traditional practices, such as the Maya milpa in South America, which create spaces for different crops while sustaining wildlife and soil fert...
SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateAug 14, 2013
NASA 'fire towers' in space watch for wildfires on the rise
Scientists from NASA and other agencies use satellite observation and computer modeling to predict wildfire activity in the American West. The data helps guide firefighting resources and prevention efforts, with over 2.5 million acres burned this year.
Oregon burning
In July 2013, Oregon's severe drought and thunderstorms ignited dozens of difficult-to-control wildfires. The fires burned nearly 144,688 acres across the state, with smoke posing health risks to residents. Firefighters battled the blazes, including the Douglas Complex and Big Windy Complex, which collectively burned over 50,000 acres.
Study helps managers identify regions with multiple threat potential, including wildfires
A recent study offers a tool to identify regions exposed to multiple forest threats, including wildfires, urban development, and insects and disease. The tool uses a novel analysis technique to highlight locations where threats are more concentrated.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalJournal of Forestry·DateJun 12, 2013
Research shows promise for reducing greenhouse gases
Researchers develop activated biocarbon to adsorb naphthenic acids, preventing methane gas release. The technology has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the oilsands industry.
'Watering the forest for the trees' emerging as priority for forest management
A new analysis by the USDA Forest Service emphasizes managing forests as consumers of water, reducing risk of water stress. This shift in thinking helps maintain resilience and health in a changing climate.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 3, 2013
Mega genomes of spruce species decoded
Scientists have successfully sequenced the genome of white spruce, a crucial step towards developing innovative tools for tree breeding. The massive genome assembly will contribute to reducing breeding cycles from 25 years to just five years, enhancing the competitiveness of Canada's and Scandinavian forest industries.
Maps developed to help forest industry outwit climate change
Researchers have developed maps that predict climatically suitable habitats for tree species based on climate predictions. The study found that populations of wide-ranging tree species lag behind their optimal growing environment due to changing temperature and precipitation conditions.
US urban trees store carbon, provide billions in economic value
The study estimates that annual net carbon uptake by these trees is 21 million tons and $1.5 billion in economic benefit. Urbanization has led to declining urban tree cover nationwide, with approximately 4 million trees lost annually.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateMay 7, 2013
In the Northeast, forests with entirely native flora are not the norm
A new study across 24 states found two-thirds of forest inventory plots contain at least one non-native plant species. Non-native, or introduced, plants can become invasive and displace native species, degrading habitats and altering ecosystem functions.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalEnvironmental Monitoring and Assessment·DateApr 30, 2013
Sensitive sites: UC Research examines preservation of Southwest archaeology in time of tight budgets
Researchers found that federal agencies are more effective at preserving archaeological sites in the Grand Canyon National Park than in the adjacent Kaibab National Forest. The study highlights the need for better protection and preservation efforts in vulnerable landscapes due to differing policies and limited resources.
Study explores long-term water quality trends in near-pristine streams
Researchers analyzed decades-long data from 22 streams in 7 experimental forests across the US, highlighting regional patterns of change in stream nitrogen concentrations. The study's findings underscore the importance of long-term monitoring in informing best management practices for protecting water resources.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 19, 2013
First in-depth deer census highlights need for increased culls
A new study highlights the need for increased culls to control the UK's growing deer population. The research found that current management efforts are insufficient to stop populations from spreading out of control, threatening biodiversity and causing damage to crops and road traffic accidents.
2 new species of mushroom on Iberian Peninsula described
Researchers from Basque Country describe two new species of Hydnum mushroom, Hydnum ovoideisporum and Hydnum vesterholtii, with distinct ovoid spores and ecological characteristics. The study confirms high genetic diversity among the genus, shedding light on their distribution and ecology.
2 new species of mushroom documented in the Iberian Peninsula
Researchers have documented two new species of Hydnum, commonly known as ox tongue mushrooms, in the Iberian Peninsula. The discovery sheds light on the high genetic diversity of the Hydnum genus, which has been understudied due to its edible properties.
February highlights from Ecological Society of America publications
Climate change affects Alaskan forests with potential shifts to broadleaf forest or grasslands, but plastic greenhouse farming conserves water and binds carbon. Urban renewal and watershed restoration projects in Baltimore demonstrate social cohesion and improved storm-water management.
SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateFeb 21, 2013
Mixed forest provides beneficial effects
A new study by researchers from the University of Gothenburg and Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences found that mixed forests provide positive relationships to six different ecosystem services. The study suggests that promoting more varieties of trees may increase these services, including tree growth, carbon sequestration, and...
The genome of diamondback moth provides new clues for sustainable pest management
The completed genome sequencing of DBM provides insights into insect adaptation to host plants and opens new ways for more sustainable pest management. The study identified gene families involved in detoxification, including ABC transporters, P450 monooxygenases, glutathione S-transferases, and carboxylesterase.
NASA prepares for launch of next Earth observation satellite
The Landsat Data Continuity Mission will extend over 40 years of global land observations, critical in energy and water management, forest monitoring, and disaster recovery. The mission's instruments, including Operational Land Imager and Thermal Infrared Sensor, promise improved data quality and quantity.
Call to modernize antiquated climate negotiations
Research published in Nature Climate Change finds that outdated UN climate negotiation structures hinder progress, particularly for poor countries. The study recommends capping delegation numbers to ensure broad representation and improve decision-making.
Climate change increases stress, need for restoration on grazed public lands
A new study suggests climate change is causing significant stress to western rangelands, leading to ecosystem degradation and loss of biodiversity. The researchers recommend reducing or eliminating livestock from public lands to mitigate these effects and restore affected ecosystems.
Recession drives down national park visitation, new UGA study finds
A new UGA study finds that national recession affects travel to national parks, with decreases in visitation since 1998. Despite this, some parks experience notable increases due to international recognition.
Adaptable button mushroom serves up genes critical to managing the planet's carbon stores
The study of the button mushroom's genome has revealed its ability to adapt to humus-rich environments, suggesting a higher capacity for metabolizing complex mixtures of lignin derivatives. This adaptation could have significant implications for forest carbon management and soil health.
SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 8, 2012
MSU is helping India manage forests, reduce greenhouse gases
Michigan State University is providing a $1.5 million grant to help India develop online tools for carbon monitoring and measurement. The project aims to enhance the country's forest management and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
'Forest killer' plant study explores rapid environmental change factors
The study investigates the effects of Mikania micrantha on agriculture and human communities in Chitwan National Park. Researchers aim to understand the social and ecological forces that make communities more resistant or vulnerable to rapid environmental change.
Natural regeneration building urban forests, altering species composition
A study found that natural regeneration accounts for two-thirds of urban trees, but newly established young trees are less likely to be planted, with rates ranging from 1 in 12 to 1 in 20. The proportion of naturally regenerated trees is higher in grassland or desert regions and decreases in forested areas.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·DateAug 21, 2012
Detection dogs spot northern spotted owls, even those alarmed by barred owls
Researchers trained detection dogs to locate northern spotted owl pellets and feces, achieving a 87% detection probability compared to 59% for vocalization surveys. The cost-effective approach has potential as a complementary method for spotting owls in forests invaded by barred owls.
New Hampshire leads nation in percent tree cover
The US Forest Service study found that New Hampshire has the highest percent tree cover (89%) and Connecticut has the highest urban tree cover (67%). Urban forestry is essential for sustaining urban forests, which provide environmental benefits such as air pollution reduction and heat island mitigation.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateAug 6, 2012
Georgia forests, 2011
A study by the USDA Forest Service Southern Research Station found that Georgia's forest land area remained stable over the past 50 years, while timber inventory more than doubled. The majority of commercial timberland is privately owned, with individual or family forests making up a significant portion.
Leaf litter and soil protect acorns from prescribed fire
Researchers found that acorns inside leaf litter or soil are protected from fire, while those on top of the litter are vulnerable to low-intensity surface fires. The study suggests optimal timing and conditions for prescribed burning to promote oak regeneration without harming acorns.
SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateJul 18, 2012
Native plant restoration not enough to maintain tropical dry forests in Hawaii
A recent study found that native plant restoration alone is not enough to prevent non-native species invasion in Hawaii's tropical dry forests. Instead, long-term sustainability measures are needed to manage non-native species and ensure ecosystem resilience.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Southwest Research Station·JournalBiological Invasions·DateJun 29, 2012
Retention forestry now sparing trees and benefitting biodiversity worldwide
Retention forestry is a management practice that deliberately leaves selected trees standing during harvesting, reducing ecological simplification and preserving natural forest complexity. It brings benefits such as maintaining ecosystem services, increasing public acceptance, and ensuring habitat continuity.
Model forecasts long-term impacts of forest land-use decisions
A new computer model developed at NC State University predicts the environmental impact of forest land-use decisions, considering factors such as plant growth and water cycles. The DRAINMOD-FOREST model will help policy makers and forest managers make informed decisions to minimize environmental harm while maintaining forest productivity.
Handful of heavyweight trees per acre are forest champs
A new study reveals that just a handful of heavyweight trees per acre are responsible for nearly half the biomass in a temperate forest, highlighting their crucial role in photosynthesis and carbon sequestration. The research found that these large trees can dominate even when dead, with snags accounting for 60% of total biomass.
Bark beetle management and ecology in southern pine forests
The article suggests that preventative measures are most effective in managing bark beetles, which can be controlled naturally by environmental factors. Maintaining a diversity of healthy tree species and adequate spacing between host trees reduces the likelihood of beetle outbreaks.
SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Integrated Pest Management·DateApr 23, 2012
USDA Forest Service and NASA release Web-based forest disturbance monitoring tool
The USDA Forest Service's Eastern Forest and Western Wildland Environmental Threat Assessment Centers have unveiled a new satellite-based monitoring and assessment tool called ForWarn. This web-based tool recognizes and tracks potential forest disturbances caused by various natural or human-caused events, providing near-real-time views...
New research highlights: 'Conservation and Management of Eastern Big-Eared Bats'
The publication brings together the latest knowledge on eastern big-eared bats, a group of species at risk due to habitat loss and environmental contaminants. The research provides guidance on securing or improving habitat for these bats, including discussions of conservation and management strategies.
Study: Nation's urban forests losing ground
A study by the USDA Forest Service found that tree cover in US cities is declining at a rate of 4 million trees per year, mainly due to impervious cover and natural disasters. The greatest losses were seen in New Orleans, Houston, and Albuquerque, highlighting the need for comprehensive tree planting programs.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·DateFeb 23, 2012
Integrated pest management recommendations for the southern pine beetle
The article provides IPM program recommendations for managing the southern pine beetle, a chronic insect pest in southeastern US pine forests. The beetle has three population phases, and an IPM program should be tailored to each phase, with prevention and restoration being primary concerns during the latent phase.
SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Integrated Pest Management·DateFeb 12, 2012
Mast from classic racing yacht holds one of the keys to sustainable biofuels
A team of international experts has described the detailed structure of cellulose fibres in wood, crucial for developing strong, sustainable composite materials and second generation biofuels. The research reveals that enzymes can bind to specific surface areas on the cellulose fibres, making it easier to break down into glucose.
SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 24, 2011
Forests cooler or warmer than open areas depending on latitude, study finds
A study published in Nature found that forests are warmer than open areas north of 45 degrees latitude due to higher nighttime temperatures and sunlight absorption, but cooler south of 35 degrees latitude. Forests also have climatic benefits for maintaining or increasing forest cover in southern latitudes.
Report provides new analysis of carbon accounting, biomass use, and climate benefits
A recent report provides new ideas on the carbon and energy benefits of forests and forest products. Sustainably managed forests can store and substitute carbon, while forest biomass-based energy uses less stored carbon, reducing fossil fuel emissions.
Fewer marten detections in California forest linked to decline in habitat
Researchers found a 60% decrease in marten detections since the 1980s due to habitat degradation. Suitable habitat for martens has decreased by 25% since the 1980s.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Southwest Research Station·JournalJournal of Wildlife Management·DateOct 24, 2011
UMass Amherst wins major grant to host $7.5 million Northeast Climate Science Center
The University of Massachusetts Amherst has been chosen to lead a consortium of seven universities in hosting the Northeast Climate Science Center, a five-year, $7.5 million grant. The center will study climate change effects on ecosystems, wildlife, and resources in the region.
Managing future forests for water
Researchers used long-term data from Coweeta Hydrological Laboratory to examine the feasibility of managing forests for water supply. The analysis revealed significant increases in temperature and extreme wet and dry years, with conversion from hardwoods to pines decreasing streamflow.
SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalEcological Applications·DateSep 28, 2011
Study reveals that nation's national forests can provide public health benefits
A recent study published in the Journal of Forestry reveals that US national forests can help Americans meet guidelines for regular physical activity. The study found that activities such as hiking, walking, and fishing account for about two-thirds of all visits to national forests, resulting in annual energy expenditures equivalent to...
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalJournal of Forestry·DateSep 7, 2011
Successful rainwater harvesting systems should combine new technology with old social habits
Researchers propose combining modern engineering with traditional social principles to manage rainwater as a common pool resource. Effective monitoring and management can help reduce pressure on ground and surface water supplies, as well as mitigate flash flooding in urban areas.
Wildlife in trouble from oil palm plantations, according to scientists
Scientists at Queen Mary University of London found that oil palm plantations are driving forest fragmentation, leading to a decline in bat species and genetic diversity. Larger forest patches, over 10,000 hectares, are necessary to retain comparable levels of biodiversity and prevent local extinction.
Reforestation research in Latin America helps build better forests
Scientists at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute offer new insights on reforestation in Latin America, highlighting the importance of native species, carbon storage, and biodiversity conservation. The research provides a framework for land managers to weigh environmental and economic factors in their decision-making.
Eucalyptus tree genome deciphered
The Eucalyptus grandis genome sequence provides a blueprint for efficient breeding programs, disease resistance, and wood quality improvement. Researchers aim to replace fossil fuels with biofuels and other alternative energy sources using cellulose-rich plants like eucalyptus trees.