The development of forest Islands in exurban central New York state

摘要: Onondaga County in central New York State was extensively cleared for agricultural use, so that by 1930 only 8% of the area maintained small and highly fragmented forest islands. Subsequent natural re-forestation exurban parts county increased cover to 40% total land 1980. stands formed around many residual islands, often consolidated two or more parcels previously separated open fields. At present, some forests as much 3000 ha each, even-aged less than 50 years old make up 80% area. These are generally devoid appreciable woody understory vegetation, have an elevated tight crown canopy. Tree species composition is diverse islands which were never protracted use. Sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.) white ash (Fraxinus americana L.) predominate most new on better-drained soils. Red rubrum L.), elms (Ulmus) common poorly drained sites. Overall, available data suggest prevalence fairly homogeneous structural conditions across stands. Information from resource statistics also indicates similar may dominate forested rural southwestern even greater areas Northeastern United States. Development existing seedling should further consolidate bring homogeneity throughout region.