Modeling the Regeneration of Northern Hardwoods with FOREGEN.

摘要

FOREGEN is a simulator that models the regeneration of openings in northern hardwood stands that range in size from clearcuts of 2,000 by 2,000 feet to singletree openings of 25 by 25 feet. The model incorporates random effects related to seed development, dispersal, germination, seedbed conditions, advanced regeneration and weather. Users can specify options on stand age, species composition, size of opening, harvesting in winter vs. summer, mechanical scarification, seed trees, advanced regeneration, and stump treatment for red maple. The output is percent species composition of the established regeneration 3 years after harvest. Although variation is high due to the stochastic elements incorporated into the model, FOREGEN produces realistic results that are in line with expectations on regenerating the northern hardwood forest. FOREGEN should be useful in assessing regeneration options, as input into growth simulators, and as an educational tool.