Undergraduate Researcher Northern Arizona University Flagstaff, Arizona, United States
Silvicultural treatments in northern Arizona reduce competition by decreasing tree densities. We are using data collected on the Coconino National Forest to assess growth rates and resin ducts in ponderosa pine. Results from this study will increase our understanding of management effects on tree defenses and bark beetle-caused tree mortality.
Learning Objectives:
The first objective in this project is to measure and analyze growth rates. We hypothesize that trees will have faster growth rates in response to treatment. Upon completion of this project, we will be able to identify a clear relationship between growth rates and silvicultural treatments. For this poster presentation, we will present preliminary results on growth rate findings.
The second objective in this project is to quantify and analyze resin ducts. Resin ducts are the tree’s defense mechanism against bark beetles. Upon completion of this project, we will have a deeper understanding of changes in resin ducts both in response to treatment and in conjunction with growth rates. For this poster presentation, we will present preliminary results on resin duct findings.
