This study examined how to increase growth and survival of five species of seedlings over a four year study period at two riparian sites near the Chester River, Maryland. Five treatments were used: tree shelters, weed treatment by herbicides, mowing and tree mats, and the difference between bare root and containerized seedlings. The highest 4-year levels of survivorship/growth, when averaged across all species, was associated with seedlings being protected by shelters and weed mats. Thus, only plots where seedlings were assisted by a combination of tree shelters and herbicide or tree mats exhibited an acceptable or minimum rate of survivorship for riparian forest restoration in the region. The authors conclude that using these treatments make tree establishment and restoration in the mid-Atlantic region possible within 15 years.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.