Past and present distribution of New Brunswick Bur Oak populations: a case for conservation.

摘要

A survey was conducted in New Brunswick (NB) over 5 years (1996-2000), to assess the status of Quercus macrocarpa (Bur Oak). Bur Oak in NB is separated from the fringe of its contiguous native range by approximately 750 km. Historically, the species occurred throughout the lower Saint John River Valley and in the floodplains of the Grand Lake Complex. The range in NB has been reduced and fragmented, and now consists of a few small populations, along with scattered individuals, occupying a combined area of less than 5 km2. The most isolated of the small populations in NB is at least 40 km from the nearest seed or pollen source. Elements of a conservation strategy are presented, which include preservation of existing stands by government and non-government organizations, landowner education, and restoration planting in appropriate habitats.