TITLE:
Genetic Worth Effect Models for Boreal Conifers and Their Utility When Integrated into Density Management Decision-Support Systems
AUTHORS:
Peter F. Newton
KEYWORDS:
Picea mariana, Pinus banksiana, Structural Stand Density Management Models, Phenotypic Juvenile Age-Mature Age Correlation, Canadian Boreal Forest Region
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Forestry,
Vol.5 No.1,
January
23,
2015
ABSTRACT: Based on approaches deduced from previous research findings and empirical observations from density control experiments, genetic worth effect response models were developed for black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill) BSP.) and jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) plantations. The models accounted for the increased rate of stand development arising from the planting of genetically-improved stock through temporal adjustments to the species-specific site-based mean dominant height-age functions. The models utilized a relative height growth modifier based on known estimates of genetic gain. The models also incorporated a phenotypic juvenile age-mature age correlation function in order to account for the intrinsic temporal decline in the magnitude of genetic worth effects throughout the rotation. Integrating the functions into algorithmic variants of structural stand density management models produced stand development patterns that were consistent with axioms of even-aged stand dynamics.