Overbrowsing by large deer populations in the mixed-conifer hardwood forests of northern Michigan is suspected to be the reason for the limited regeneration of hemlock trees in this area. Frelich and Lorimer measured the utilization of hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) by white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) to determine their impact on seedling establishment and recruitment of young trees in the forest, then used this data to create a detailed computer model that predicts the forest composition in several decades if the current browsing level continues. Browsing intensity was high at the study site and was determined to be the major reason for limited recruitment of young hemlock trees, and this data suggested that at the current level of browsing the forest canopy would become dominated by sugar maple (Acer saccharum) trees in 100-150 years. Based on the current number of hemlocks and the predictions of the computer simulation, the authors recommended reducing the deer population, and consequently their browsing impacts, to maintain current forest structure.
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