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Silviculture is the art and science of influencing the establishment, composition, growth, health, and quality of forests to meet the many diverse needs and values of landowners and society in a sustainable manner. Increasingly complex and diverse demands are placed on the forests of today and tomorrow, and silvicultural knowledge is more relevant now than ever. Whether timber products, creating wildlife habitat, stream protection, or carbon considerations are desired, silviculturalists may help provide insights and mechanisms to enhance the success of management efforts.
I am interested in the development of forest structure, the role of disturbance, both natural and man-made in forest change, and how we can use the information to improve silvicultural systems to meet our many needs from the forest. Understanding the countless factors that affect the natural development of a forest helps predict the consequences of different silvicultural treatments. I believe a strong understanding of stand dynamics, species silvics, and the biotic and abiotic forces that interact in forest systems is the best means to ensure the integrity and health of our forests
My primary project will focus on patterns of growth and development of an old-growth forest (Davis-Purdue Research Forest) with contrasts to similar stands that have been selectively harvested since the property was acquired in 1917. In 1926, Dr. Prentice Burr began a comprehensive inventory of the Davis properties that included individual tree identification, measurements, and mapping of four forested stands. I plan to study the effects of selection harvesting on stand regeneration, growth, and spatial structure over time, with contrasts to those same elements in the old-growth forest. |
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Robert C. Morrissey |
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Ph.D. Admittee Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center Department of Forestry and Natural Resources Purdue University West Lafayette, IN 47907-2061 USA Office: PFEN 228; (765) 494-9592 E-mail: rmorriss@purdue.edu |
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Advance oak regeneration - Benxi, China |
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Research interests |
