Key to Aid in Site Selection
Is slope > 70%? This is not a suitable site
Is slope < 70%? This is a suitable site
Rock coverIs the site >65% covered by exposed rock? This is not a suitable site
Is the site <65% covered by exposed rock? This is a suitable site
Canopy closureDo the overstory trees in this stand block your view of more than 50% of the sky when looking up in most locations? If yes, both methods may be implemented at this site. However, shading from the tree canopy will limit seedling growth and lessen seedling height response to changes in deer browsing. Include the spring wildflower method at this site if possible.
This drawing depicts a slope of 70%. Any slope steeper than this would not be an appropriate site.
Are there openings between the overstory trees that allow you to see more than half of the sky when looking up in most locations? If so, you can implement both methods at this site and expect good seedling growth rates.
The pictures below can help you decide how closed the canopy is at potential locations and can help you check the correct canopy percentage on your form(s).
0-10% canopy closure
10-20% canopy closure
20-30% canopy closure
30-40% canopy closure
40-50% canopy closure
50-60% canopy closure
60-70% canopy closure
70-80% canopy closure
80-90% canopy closure
90-100% canopy closure
Is there a dense subcanopy of trees or shrubs below the main canopy that blocks sunlight from over half of the sky? If yes, shading will limit tree seedling growth. Include the spring wildflower method at this site if possible.
Are there openings between the understory trees and shrubs that allow sunlight to reach more than half of the forest floor in most locations? If yes, you can implement both methods at this site.
Pictures showing dense cover of American beech (left) and barberry (right) in the subcanopy and shrub layers of the forest. In these stands, wildflowers are more likely than seedlings to respond to changes in browsing impacts.
Fern, grass, sedge and invasive herb coverDo ferns, grasses, sedges, or invasive herbs cover significant amounts of ground within the stand? Wildflowers that occur within fern patches can be selected and measured. Only select woody seedlings if they are taller than the fern patch.
