Spruce Seedling Data Bonanza Creek Experimental Forest Floodplain Inside and Outside of the Moose Exclosures

This study started in September 2002 focused on the indirect effect of moose browsing on white spruce regeneration on the Tanana River floodplain. Twelve exclosures (7m X 10m, 2m high), with adjacent control plots of the same size, were constructed using chain-link fence panels. Exclosures were located along the Tanana River between FP 1A and FP 1C and instrumented with Hobo Microstations for monitoring of soil and air temperature, relative humidity, and PAR. Browsing effects on deciduous vegetation (biomass removal and canopy height) and soil properties were analyzed in relation to the performance (germination, growth and biochemistry) of planted white spruce seeds and seedlings (n=98/exclosure). Additionally, direct browsing by snowshoe hares on spruce seedlings (growth and survival) was evaluated in relation to canopy cover and terrace age. The study is ongoing.