Tree regeneration after fire: Aspen removal experiment, soil moisture analysis 2002

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. Data are soil moisture from treatment and control plots measured from a single soil core from each plot sampled on 12 July 2002.