Tree regeneration after fire: Aspen removal experiment, Aspen stem numbers, biomass and canopy height

This research was intended to address the general question of whether asexual stem regeneration of trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) reduces rates of establishment and growth of potential invading conifer species during the initial years following fire. Interactions between aspen and conifers were studied under natural conditions in a burned aspen stand with a high potential for aspen re-sprouting. The study contributes to our understanding of whether competitive interactions between tree seedlings are likely to help maintain deciduous stands across disturbance cycles by reducing the potential for successful conifer establishment. Includes measurements of aspen stem numbers, biomass and canopy height in clipped and control plots, for samples in 2000 (start of the experiment) and 2002 (experiment harvest on August 16, 2002).