Survival and Early Growth of Planted Forest Trees on Strip-Mine Spoils in the Anthracite Region.

摘要

In 1962, a survey-type study was conducted to evaluate the performance of forest tree species in established plantings on strip-mine spoils of the Anthracite Region of Pennsylvania. Plantations representing a wide range of site conditions in all four anthracite fields were examined. The spoils were classified into four major types on the basis of parent materials and acidity expressed as pH. Subdivisions within these types were recognized with respect to texture, aspect, slope position, and grading treatment. In each plantation that qualified for study, height measurements and survival counts were taken by species and the spoil type and other site characteristics were recorded. Region-wide species performances were then correlated with spoil types and conditions. The results of the study provide the basis for a preliminary guide for forest tree planting on the spoils. They also serve to identify the most crucial gaps in our knowledge and thus indicate where additional research effort should be directed.