Multi-Resource Effects of Harvest, Site Preparation, and Planting in Pine Flatwoods

Abstract

A multidisciplinary study of the environmental and ecological effects of harvest, site preparation, and planting of pine flatwoods forests under two distinct management regimes is described, and important results are reported for several resources. Bedload sediment production was negligible regardless of treatment. Water yield increased during treatments, but returned to preharvest levels the following year. Stormflow increased--especially for intermediate-sized storms. Peakflow rates increased only when the stream channel was exposed to more intensive site preparation. Water quality alterations were small and transient; potassium, calcium, and suspended sediment concentrations increased. Except for calcium, nutrients in rainfall exceeded nutrients in runoff and pulpwood harvest removals. Soil and nutrient relocation with windrowing was substantial. Floral composition was dramatically altered: woody species diminished; herbaceous species increased. Plant species diversity was initially increased by less intensive practices, not diminished by more intensive practices. Small mammal populations--depauperate in the natural stands--remained so after planting. Winter bird densities increased--especially on the perimeter of undisturbed cypress domes and within clearcut pinelands.