Forest Composition and Structure North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.1 SFRMP Assessment (Draft) C H A P T E R 3 Forest Composition and Structure North Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands Subsections 3.1 ………Forest cover types on DNR lands Map 3.1 3.2 ………Forest cover types on DNR lands Charts 3.2 a – d 3.3 ………Age classes for DNR lands Charts 3.3 a – d 3.4 ………Trends in the extent of forest land, forest type, and age-classes for DNR lands (comparison between 1989 and 2000 CSA forest inventory data) Charts 3.4 a – d 3.5 ………Old growth forests Tables 3.5 a – c 3.6 ………Historical forest composition compared to today’s forest – an estimate Table 3.6 A note about the charts in this section Charts referring to all three subsections (North Shore Highlands /Toimi Uplands/ Laurentian Uplands) are indicated by an “a” after each chart designation (e.g. Chart 3.2a) Charts referring to the North Shore Highlands Subsection only are indicated by a “b” after each chart designation (e.g. Chart 3.2b) Charts referring to the Toimi Uplands Subsection only are indicated by a “c” after each chart designation (e.g. Chart 3.2c) Charts referring to the Laurentian Uplands Subsection only are indicated by a “d” after each chart designation (e.g. Chart 3.2d)
Transcript
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.1 SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
C H A P T E R 3
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands Subsections
3.1 ………Forest cover types on DNR lands Map 3.1 3.2 ………Forest cover types on DNR lands Charts 3.2 a – d 3.3 ………Age classes for DNR lands
Charts 3.3 a – d 3.4 ………Trends in the extent of forest land, forest type, and age-classes for DNR
lands (comparison between 1989 and 2000 CSA forest inventory data) Charts 3.4 a – d 3.5 ………Old growth forests Tables 3.5 a – c 3.6 ………Historical forest composition compared to today’s forest – an estimate Table 3.6
A note about the charts in this section Charts referring to all three subsections (North Shore Highlands /Toimi Uplands/ Laurentian Uplands) are indicated by an “a” after each chart designation (e.g. Chart 3.2a) Charts referring to the North Shore Highlands Subsection only are indicated by a “b” after each chart designation (e.g. Chart 3.2b) Charts referring to the Toimi Uplands Subsection only are indicated by a “c” after each chart designation (e.g. Chart 3.2c) Charts referring to the Laurentian Uplands Subsection only are indicated by a “d” after each chart designation (e.g. Chart 3.2d)
Forest Composition and Structure
3.2 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Map 3.1
Maps may be viewed as separate PDF files on the North Shore - Subsection Forest Resource Management Plan (SFRMP) web site at www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/subsection/north_shore.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.3 SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Map 3.1 (continued)
Maps may be viewed as separate PDF files on the North Shore - Subsection Forest Resource Management Plan (SFRMP) web site at www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/subsection/north_shore.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.4 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Table 3.2 a State Timberland Cover Type Acres by Age Class1 - 2002
(North Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands Subsections (Combined) Age Class
Cedar 0 12 10 237 11 67 207 522 524 1,231 3,647 10,256 16,724Cutover Area 517 43 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 560Total Acres 17,448 26,655 15,854 10,630 8,096 13,528 26,789 34,277 20,422 13,167 15,290 16,041 218,1971Forestry and Wildlife Administered Lands Includes No Harvest Stands
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimii Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.5 SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Table 3.3 a Comparison of State Timberland Cover Type Acres1 Between 1989 and 2002 North Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands Subsections
(Combined) 1989 2002 1989 → 2002
Cover Type Acres Percent Acres Percent Percent Change
Ash/Lowland Hardwoods 4,887 2% 7,581 3% 55% Aspen/Balm of Gilead 58,982 29% 70,373 32% 19% Birch 32,908 16% 29,930 14% -9% Northern Hardwoods/Oak 11,466 6% 14,498 7% 26% Norway Pine 6,834 3% 8,526 4% 25% White Pine 1,400 1% 2,178 1% 56% Jack Pine 3,941 2% 5,227 2% 33% Black Spruce, Upland 3,447 2% 3,207 1% -7% Balsam Fir 15,477 8% 12,224 6% -21% White Spruce 12,254 6% 12,574 6% 3% Black Spruce, Lowland 26,965 13% 29,054 13% 8% Tamarack 3,624 2% 5,519 3% 52% White Cedar 14,988 7% 16,724 8% 12% Cut Over Area2 4,833 2% 560 0% -88% Total 202,006 100% 218,175 100% 8%
1All State Forestry and Wildlife Administered Lands 2Cutover Area: A site that was harvested within the last three years with no timber species present or visible when the site was last inventoried. Usually, the site is in the process of regeneration. This code is used less frequently than in the past. Now, stands are usually classified according to the best estimate of what the regeneration species will be on the site. The inventory data is updated upon completion of the first regeneration field survey, usually one, three, or five years after harvest.
Acreage changes for cover types are primarily due to acquired lands, updates to the CSA forest inventory, harvesting, planting or seeding to a different cover type, forest health (e.g., spruce budworm damage to balsam fir and early 1990s drought effects on birch), and the old age of some stands resulting in natural succession to another cover type. Based on the forest inventory, there was an eight percent increase in state-administered timberland acres between 1989 and 2002 in the three subsections. The 218,175 acres of state timberlands in 2002 is approximately nine percent of the land in the three subsections. Charts 3.4a1 – 3.4a13 compare age-class distribution by cover type for state-administered timberlands for the years 1989 and 2002. They provide a general look at how the cover type composition of state forest lands has changed over the past 13 years.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.6 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a1
All Timberland Cover Types - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
This chart shows the age-class distribution in 1989 and 2002 for all state timberland cover types combined in the three subsections. Based on the forest inventory, there was an eight percent increase (202,006 to 218,175 acres) in state-administered timberland acres between 1989 and 2002 in the three subsections. This would account for some of the increases in age-class acreage in 2002. Other reasons for changes include updates to the CSA forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimii Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.7 SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a2
Ash/Lowland Hardwoods - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
In 1989, these cover types were two percent (4,887 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 they are three percent (7,581 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in ash and lowland hardwoods cover types, as indicated by the low acreage in the 0-10 age class. Some partial cut harvesting has occurred which would not set the age-class for the stands back to 0-10. Reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.8 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a3
Aspen/Balm of Gilead - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
0
2000
4000
6000
8000
10000
12000
14000
16000
18000
1-10 11-20
21-30
31-40
41-50
51-60
61-70
71-80
81-90
91-100
101-120
121+
Age Class - Years
Acre
s
1989 2002
In 1989, the aspen and balm of Gilead cover types were 29 percent (58,982 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 they are 32 percent (70,373 acres). Increases in the younger age-classes are due to increased timber harvesting in these cover types over the past 20 years. Other reasons for increases include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, natural regeneration to aspen following harvest of some stands of balsam fir or other cover types, and the continued aging of forest stands. The chart shows an increase in the number of acres in age-classes beyond 70 years. It also shows the impending decrease in available harvest acres, as indicated by fewer acres in the 31-50 age-classes.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimii Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.9 SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a4
Birch - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
In 1989, the paper birch cover type was 16 percent (32,908 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 it is 14 percent (29,930 acres). Low acreage in the younger age classes is due to difficulties in regenerating birch because of deer browsing, brush competition, old age of the cover type, and the low stocking of some stands because of mortality following the late 1980s to early 1990s drought, birch decline, and bronze birch borer damage. Poorly stocked birch stands and merchantable stands that have been harvested have often been converted to other species as plantations of white spruce and pine. Much of the birch cover type originated after forest fires in the early 1900s as can be seen in the large acreage greater than 70 years old. Other reasons for changes include updates to the CSA forest inventory and the acquisition of additional lands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.10 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a5
Northern Hardwoods/Oak - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
In 1989, the northern hardwoods and oak cover types were six percent (11,466 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 they are seven percent (14,498 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in these cover types, as indicated by the low acres in the 0-10 age class. Some partial cut harvesting has occurred which would not set the age-class for the stands back to 0-10. Reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimii Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.11 SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a6 White Pine - 1989 and 2002 Age Class Distribution
North Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
In 1989, the white pine cover type was 0.7 percent (1,400 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 it is one percent (2,178 acres). Even though the cover type percent in the subsections remained relatively the same, there was a 56 percent increase in the white pine cover type acres. The large increase in the 1-10 age-class is due primarily to more planting and seeding of white pine in recent years, mostly on sites that were previously other cover types. An effort to more fully identify white pine cover type acres in the forest inventory has also increased the acreage. Little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type in the past 10 years, so most of the increase in young acres has been through conversion from other cover types such as balsam fir and paper birch. Other reasons for changes include the acquisition of additional lands and the continued aging of the cover type.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.12 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a7
Norway Pine - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
In 1989, the Norway (red) pine cover type was three percent (6,834 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 it is four percent (8,526 acres). The primary reason for the large acreage increase in the 0-40 age-classes is due to planting Norway pine on sites that were previously other cover types over the past 50 years. Little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type in the past 10 years in these subsections, as indicated by the slight changes in the older age classes. When Norway pine stands are clear-cut, the sites are usually planted back to Norway pine. Much of the harvest in the Norway pine cover type occurs through periodic thinning of stands, which would not have a significant effect on changes in cover type age classes. Other reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimii Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.13 SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a8
Jack Pine/Upland Black Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
In 1989, the jack pine and upland black spruce cover types were four percent (7,388 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 they are four percent (8,434 acres). The 14 percent increase in acres is primarily in the 1-10 year age-class as a result of natural regeneration, planting, or seeding of jack pine and black spruce after harvest of jack pine, upland black spruce, and other types. Other reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.14 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a9
Balsam Fir - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
In 1989, the balsam fir cover type was eight percent (15,477 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 it is six percent (12,224 acres). The 21 percent decrease in cover type acres is primarily due to re-inventorying of stands where the balsam fir component died due to spruce budworm attack and the reclassification to another cover type, or salvage harvest of dead and dying balsam fir with later conversion to pine or spruce. Other reasons for changes between 1989 and 2002 include acquisition of additional lands, updates to forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands. Balsam fir continues to be a common understory species or component in other cover types.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimii Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.15 SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a10
White Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
1-10 11-20
21-30
31-40
41-50
51-60
61-70
71-80
81-90
91-100
101-120
121+
Age Class - Years
Acr
es
1989 2002
In 1989, the white spruce cover type was six percent (12,254 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 it is six percent (12,574 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type during the past 10 years. The large acreage increase in the 0-30 age-classes is due to planting white spruce on sites that were previously other cover types. Other reasons for changes between 1989 and 2002 include acquisition of additional lands, updates to forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.16 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a11
Lowland Black Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
In 1989, the lowland black spruce cover type was 13 percent (26,965 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 it is 13 percent (29,054 acres). Reasons for changes in age classes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, regeneration, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimii Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.17 SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a12
Tamarack - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
In 1989, the tamarack cover type was two percent (3,624 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 it is three percent (5,519 acres). Reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands. Less acreage in 2002 in the 0-10 age-class is primarily due to reduced demand and harvest of tamarack during the past 10 years.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.18 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4a13
Cedar - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Highlands, Toimi Uplands, and Laurentian Uplands
In 1989, the white cedar cover type was seven percent (14,988 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 it is eight percent (16,724 acres). Very little timber harvesting has occurred in this cover type. Reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimii Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.19 SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Table 3.2b State Timberland Cover Type Acres1 by Age Class - 2002
Norway Pine 4,051 3% 4,658 3% 15% White Pine 625 0% 1,098 1% 76% Jack Pine 825 1% 1,257 1% 52% Black Spruce, Upland 1,304 1% 947 1% -27%
Balsam Fir 11,174 8% 8,048 6% -28% White Spruce 8,722 7% 8,517 6% -2% Black Spruce, Lowland 8,719 7% 10,911 7% 25%
Tamarack 2,290 2% 3,251 2% 42% White Cedar 12,605 9% 14,189 10% 13% Cut Over Area 3,819 3% 472 0% -88% Total 134,006 100% 146,005 100% 9%
1All State Forestry and Wildlife Administered Lands 2Cutover Area: A site that was harvested within the last three years with no timber species present or visible when the site was last inventoried. Usually, the site is in the process of regeneration. This code is used less frequently than in the past. Now, stands are usually classified according to the best estimate of what the regeneration species will be on the site. The inventory data is updated upon completion of the first regeneration field survey, usually one, three, or five years after harvest. Acreage changes for cover types are primarily due to acquired lands, updates to the CSA forest inventory, harvesting, planting or seeding to a different cover type, forest health (e.g., spruce budworm damage to balsam fir and early 1990s drought effects on birch), and the old age of some stands resulting in natural succession to another cover type. Based on the forest inventory, there was a nine percent increase in state-administered timberland acres between 1989 and 2002 in the subsection. Charts 3.4b1 – 3.4b14 compare age-class distribution by cover type for state-administered timberlands for the years 1989 and 2002 in the North Shore Highlands Subsection.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.21 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b1
All Timberland Cover Types - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
This chart shows the age-class distribution in 1989 and 2002 for all state timberland cover types in the North Shore Highlands Subsection. Based on the forest inventory, there was a nine percent increase (134,006 to 146,005 acres) in state-administered timberland acres between 1989 and 2002 in this subsection. This would account for some of the increases in age-class acreage in 2002. Other reasons for changes include updates to the CSA forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.22 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b2
Ash/Lowland Hardwoods - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the ash and lowland hardwood cover types were three percent (4,382 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is five percent (6,900 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in ash and lowland hardwoods cover types, as indicated by the low acreage in the 0-10 age class. Some partial cut harvesting has occurred which would not set the age-class for the stands back to 0-10. Reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.23 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b3
Aspen/Balm of Gilead - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the aspen and balm of Gilead cover types were 29 percent (38,312 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 33 percent (47,815 acres). Increases in the younger age-classes are due to increased timber harvesting in these cover types over the past 20 years. Other reasons for increases include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, natural regeneration to aspen following harvest of some stands of balsam fir or other cover types, and the continued aging of forest stands. The chart shows an increase in the number of acres in age-classes beyond 70 years. It also shows the impending decrease in available harvest acres, as indicated by fewer acres in the 31-50 age-classes.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.24 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b4
Birch - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the paper birch cover type was 20 percent (26,259 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 17 percent (24,256 acres). Low acreage in the younger age classes is due to difficulties in regenerating birch because of deer browsing, brush competition, old age of the cover type, and the low stocking of some stands because of mortality following the late 1980s to early 1990s drought, birch decline, and bronze birch borer damage. Poorly stocked birch stands and merchantable stands that have been harvested have often been converted to other species as plantations of white spruce and pine. Much of the birch cover type originated after forest fires in the early 1900s as can be seen in the large acreage greater than 60 years old. Other reasons for changes include updates to the CSA forest inventory and the acquisition of additional lands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.25 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b5
Northern Hardwoods/Oak - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the northern hardwoods and oak cover types were eight percent (10,919 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 they are nine percent (13,686 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in these cover types, as indicated by the low acres in the 0-10 age class. Some partial cut harvesting has occurred which would not set the age-class for the stands back to 0-10. Reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.26 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b6
White Pine - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the white pine cover type was 0.5 percent (625 acres) of the state timberlands and in 2002 it is 0.75 percent (1,098 acres). Even though the cover type percent in the subsection remained nearly the same, there was a 76 percent increase in the white pine cover type acres. The large increase in the 1-10 age-class is due primarily to more planting and seeding of white pine in recent years, mostly on sites that were previously other cover types. An effort to more fully identify white pine cover type acres in the forest inventory has also increased the acreage. Little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type in the past 10 years, so most of the increase in young acres has been through conversion from other cover types such as balsam fir and paper birch. Other reasons for changes include the acquisition of additional lands and the continued aging of the cover type.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.27 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b7
Norway Pine - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the Norway (red) pine cover type was three percent (4,051 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is three percent (4,658 acres). The primary reason for the large acreage increase in the 0-40 age-classes is due to planting Norway pine on sites that were previously other cover types over the past 50 years. Little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type in the past 10 years in the subsection, as indicated by the slight changes in the older age classes. When Norway pine stands are clear-cut, the sites are usually planted back to Norway pine. Much of the harvest in the Norway pine cover type occurs through periodic thinning of stands, which would not have a significant effect on changes in cover type age classes. Other reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.28 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b8
Jack Pine - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the jack pine cover type was 0.6 percent (825 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 0.9 percent (1,257 acres). The 52 percent increase in acres is primarily in the 1-10 year age-class as a result of natural regeneration, planting, or seeding of jack pine after harvest of jack pine, upland black spruce, and other types. Other reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.29 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b9
Upland Black Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the upland black spruce cover type was one percent (1,304 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 0.6 percent (947 acres). The 27 percent decrease in acres is due to upland black spruce sites regenerating to other cover types (e.g., jack pine) after harvest and updates to the forest inventory.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.30 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b10
Balsam Fir - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the balsam fir cover type was eight percent (11,174 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is six percent (8,048 acres). The 28 percent decrease in cover type acres is primarily due to re-inventorying of stands where the balsam fir component died due to spruce budworm attack and the reclassification to another cover type, or salvage harvest of dead and dying balsam fir with later conversion to pine or spruce. Other reasons for changes between 1989 and 2002 include acquisition of additional lands, updates to forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands. Balsam fir continues to be a common understory species or component in other cover types.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.31 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b11
White Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the white spruce cover type was seven percent (8,722 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is six percent (8,517 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type during the past 10 years. The large acreage increase in the 0-30 age-classes is due to planting white spruce on sites that were previously other cover types. Other reasons for changes between 1989 and 2002 include acquisition of additional lands, updates to forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.32 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b12
Lowland Black Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the lowland black spruce cover type was seven percent (8,719 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is seven percent (10,911 acres). Reasons for changes in age-classes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, regeneration, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.33 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b13
Tamarack - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
1989 2002 In 1989, the tamarack cover type was two percent (2,290 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is two percent (3,251 acres). Reasons for changes in age-classes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands. No acreage in 2002 in the 0-10 age-class is primarily due to reduced demand and harvest of tamarack during the past 10 years.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.34 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4b14
Cedar - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionNorth Shore Subsection
In 1989, the white cedar cover type was nine percent (12,605 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 10 percent (14,189 acres). Very little timber harvesting has occurred in this cover type. Reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.35 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Table 3.2c State Timberland Cover Type Acres1 by Age Class - 2002
Toimi Uplands Subsection AGE CLASS
COVER TYPE 00-10 11-20 21-30 31-40 41-50 51-60 61-70 71-80 81-90 91-100 101-120 121+ TOTAL
TOTAL ACRES 3,614 2,899 1,719 1,192 720 2,149 3,826 3,353 1,262 551 891 1,047 23,2231 Forestry and Wildlife Administered Lands Includes No Harvest Stands
Forest Composition and Structure
3.36 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Table 3.3c Comparison of Timberland Cover Type Acres1 Between 1989 and 2002
Toimi Uplands Subsection 1989 2002 1989 → 2002 Cover Type Acres Percent Acres Percent Percent ChangeAsh/Lowland Hardwoods 287 1% 486 2% 69% Aspen/Balm of Gilead 10,011 48% 11,127 48% 11% Birch 2,440 12% 1,950 8% -20% Northern Hardwoods/Oak 536 3% 522 2% -3% Norway Pine 1,422 7% 1,752 8% 23% White Pine 315 2% 470 2% 49% Jack Pine 146 1% 460 2% 215% Black Spruce, Upland 157 1% 180 1% 15% Balsam Fir 1,190 6% 1,251 5% 5% White Spruce 1,027 5% 1,366 6% 33% Black Spruce, Lowland 2,327 11% 2,456 11% 6% Tamarack 408 2% 539 2% 32% White Cedar 573 3% 628 3% 10% Cut Over Area 18 0% 36 0% 100% Total 20,857 100% 23,223 100% 11% 1All State Forestry and Wildlife Administered Lands 2Cutover Area: A site that was harvested within the last three years with no timber species present or visible when the site was last inventoried. Usually, the site is in the process of regeneration. This code is used less frequently than in the past. Now, stands are usually classified according to the best estimate of what the regeneration species will be on the site. The inventory data is updated upon completion of the first regeneration field survey, usually one, three, or five years after harvest. Acreage changes for cover types are primarily due to acquisition of additional lands, updates to the CSA forest inventory, harvesting, planting or seeding to a different cover type, forest health (e.g., spruce budworm damage to balsam fir and early 1990s drought effects on birch), and the old age of some stands resulting in natural succession to another cover type. Based on the forest inventory, there was an 11 percent increase in state-administered timberland acres between 1989 and 2002 in the subsection. Charts 3.4c1 – 3.4c14 compare age-class distribution by cover type for state-administered timberlands for the years 1989 and 2002 in the Toimi Uplands Subsection.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.37 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4c1
All Timberland Cover Types - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
This chart shows the age-class distribution in 1989 and 2002 for all state timberland cover types in the Toimi Uplands Subsection. Based on the forest inventory, there was an 11 percent increase (20,857 to 23,223 acres) in state-administered timberland acres between 1989 and 2002 in this subsection. This would account for some of the increases in age-class acreage in 2002. Other reasons for changes include the acquisition of additional lands, updates to CSA forest inventory, harvesting, regeneration, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.38 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4c2 Ash/Lowland Hardwoods - 1989 and 2002 Age Class Distribution
In 1989, the ash and lowland hardwood cover types were one percent (287 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is two percent (486 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in ash and lowland hardwoods cover types, as indicated by no acreage in the 0-10 age class. Some partial cut harvesting has occurred which would not set the age-class for the stands back to 0-10. Reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.39 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4c3 Aspen/Balm of Gilead - 1989 and 2002 Age Class Distribution
In 1989, the aspen and balm of Gilead cover types were 48 percent (10,011 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 48 percent (11,127 acres). Increases in the younger age-classes are due to increased timber harvesting in these cover types over the past 20 years. Other reasons for changes in age-classes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, natural regeneration to aspen following harvest of some stands of balsam fir or other cover types, and the continued aging of forest stands. The chart shows the impending decrease in available harvest acres, as indicated by fewer acres in the 21-50 age-classes.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.40 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4 c4
Birch - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the paper birch cover type was 12 percent (2,440 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is eight percent (1,950 acres). This is a 20 percent decrease in cover type acres. Low acreage in the younger age classes is due to difficulties in regenerating birch because of deer browsing, brush competition, old age of the cover type, and the low stocking of some stands because of mortality following the late 1980s to early 1990s drought, birch decline, and bronze birch borer damage. Poorly stocked birch stands and merchantable stands that have been harvested have often been converted to other species as plantations of white spruce and pine. Much of the birch cover type originated after forest fires in the early 1900s as can be seen in the large acreage greater than 70 years old. Other reasons for changes include updates to the CSA forest inventory and the continued aging of the cover type.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.41 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4 c5
Northern Hardwoods - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the northern hardwoods and oak cover types were three percent (536 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, they are 2 percent (522 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in these cover types, as indicated by no acres in the 0-10 age class. Some partial cut harvesting has occurred which would not set the age-class for the stands back to 0-10. Reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.42 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4 c6
White Pine - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the white pine cover type was 1.5 percent (315 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is two percent (470 acres). Even though the cover type percent in the subsection remained relatively the same, there was a 49 percent increase in the white pine cover type acres. The increase in the 1-10 age-class is due primarily to more planting and seeding of white pine in recent years, mostly on sites that were previously other cover types. An effort to more fully identify white pine cover type acres in the forest inventory has also increased the acreage. Little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type in the past 10 years, so most of the increase in young acres has been through conversion from other cover types such as balsam fir and paper birch. Other reasons for changes may include the acquisition of additional lands and the continued aging of the cover type.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.43 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4 c7
Norway Pine - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the Norway (red) pine cover type was seven percent (1,422 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is eight percent (1,752 acres). The primary reason for the large acreage increase in the 0-30 age-classes is due to planting Norway pine on sites that were previously other cover types over the past 40 years. Little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type in the past 10 years in the subsection. When Norway pine stands are clear-cut, the sites are usually planted back to Norway pine. Much of the harvest in the Norway pine cover type occurs through periodic thinning of stands, which would not have a significant effect on changes in cover type age classes. Other reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.44 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4c8
Jack Pine - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the jack pine cover type was 0.7 percent (146 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is two percent (460 acres). The 215 percent increase in acres is primarily in the 0-10 year age-class as a result of natural regeneration, planting, or seeding of jack pine after harvest. Other reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.45 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4 c9
Upland Black Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the upland black spruce cover type was 0.75 percent (157 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 0.78 percent (180 acres). Acreage percent remain about the same. Age-class changes are due to harvest and regeneration of upland black spruce, updates to the forest inventory, acquisition of additional lands, and the continued aging of the cover type.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.46 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4 c 10
Balsam Fir - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the balsam fir cover type was six percent (1,190 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is five percent (1,251 acres). Reasons for changes between 1989 and 2002 include acquisition of additional lands, updates to forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands. Balsam fir continues to be a common understory species or component in other cover types.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.47 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4 c 11
White Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the white spruce cover type was five percent (1,027 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is six percent (1,366 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type during the past 10 years. The large acreage in the 0-40 age-classes is due to planting white spruce on sites that were previously other cover types. Other reasons for changes between 1989 and 2002 include acquisition of additional lands, updates to forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.48 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4 c12
Lowland Black Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the lowland black spruce cover type was 11 percent (2,327 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 11 percent (2,456 acres). Reasons for changes in acres and age-classes include updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, regeneration, acquisition of additional lands, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.49 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4 c13
Tamarack - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the tamarack cover type was two percent (408 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is two percent (539 acres). There was a 32 percent increase in tamarack acres. Reasons for changes in age-classes include updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, acquisition of additional lands, and the continued aging of forest stands. The small acreage in 2002 in the 0-10 age-class is primarily due to low demand and little harvest of tamarack stands during the past 10 years.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.50 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4 c14
Cedar - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionToimi Uplands Subsection
1989 2002 In 1989, the white cedar cover type was three percent (573 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is still three percent (628 acres). Very little timber harvesting has occurred in this cover type, for this reason and the difficulties in regenerating white cedar, there is no cedar in the younger age classes. Reasons for changes in age-classes may include updates to the forest inventory, acquisition of additional lands, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.51 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Table 3.2d State Timberland Cover Type Acres1 by Age Class - 2002
Laurentian Uplands Subsection AGE CLASS
COVER TYPE 00-10 11-20 21-30 31-40 41-50 51-60 61-70 71-80 81-90 91-100 101-120 121+ TOTAL
TOTAL ACRES 5,335 6,261 4,556 2,137 1,761 3,204 4,715 6,102 5,131 3,238 3,757 2,755 48,9521Forestry and Wildlife Administered Lands Includes No Harvest Stands
Forest Composition and Structure
3.52 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Table 3.3d Comparison of Timberland Cover Type Acres1 Between 1989 and 2002
Laurentian Uplands Subsection 1989 2002 1989-2002
Cover Type Acres Percent Acres Percent Percent Change
Ash/Lowland Hardwoods 218 0% 195 0% -11%
Aspen/Balm of Gilead 10,659 23% 11,431 23% 7%
Birch 4,209 9% 3,724 8% -12%
Northern Hardwoods 11 0% 290 1% 2536%
Norway Pine 1,361 3% 2,116 4% 55%
White Pine 460 1% 610 1% 33%
Jack Pine 2,971 6% 3,510 7% 18%
Black Spruce, Upland 1,986 4% 2,080 4% 5%
Balsam Fir 3,113 7% 2,925 6% -6%
White Spruce 2,505 5% 2,691 5% 7%
Black Spruce, Lowland 15,919 34% 15,687 32% -1%
Tamarack 926 2% 1,729 4% 87%
White Cedar 1,810 4% 1,907 4% 5%
Cut Over Area 996 2% 52 0% -95%
Total 47,144 100% 48,947 100% 4% 1All State Forestry and Wildlife Administered Lands 2Cutover Area: A site that was harvested within the last three years with no timber species present or visible when the site was last inventoried. Usually, the site is in the process of regeneration. This code is used less frequently than in the past. Now, stands are usually classified according to the best estimate of what the regeneration species will be on the site. The inventory data is updated upon completion of the first regeneration field survey, usually one, three, or five years after harvest. Acreage changes for cover types are primarily due to updates to the CSA forest inventory, harvesting, planting or seeding to a different cover type, forest health (e.g., spruce budworm damage to balsam fir and early 1990s drought effects on birch), acquisition of additional lands, and the old age of some stands resulting in natural succession to another cover type. Based on the forest inventory, there was a four percent increase in state-administered timberland acres between 1989 and 2002 in the subsection. Charts 3.4d1 – 3.4d14 compare age-class distribution by cover type for state-administered timberlands for the years 1989 and 2002 in the Laurentian Uplands Subsection.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.53 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d1
All Timberland Cover Types - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionLaurentian Uplands Subsection
This chart shows the age-class distribution in 1989 and 2002 for all state timberland cover types in the Laurentian Uplands Subsection. Based on the forest inventory, there was a four percent increase (47,144 to 48,947 acres) in state-administered timberland acres between 1989 and 2002 in this subsection. This would account for some of the increases in age-class acreage in 2002. Other reasons for changes include updates to the CSA forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.54 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d2 Ash/Lowland Hdwds - 1989 and 2002 Age Class Distribution
In 1989, the ash and lowland hardwood cover types were 0.5 percent (218 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 0.4 percent (195 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in ash and lowland hardwoods cover types, as indicated by the low acreage in the 0-10 age class. Some partial cut harvesting has occurred which would not set the age-class for the stands back to 0-10. Reasons for changes include updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.55 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d3
Aspen/Balm of Gilead - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionLaurentian Uplands Subsection
1989 2002 In 1989, the aspen and balm of Gilead cover types were 23 percent (10,659 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 23 percent (11,431 acres). Increases in the younger age-classes are due to increased timber harvesting in these cover types over the past 20 years. Other reasons for changes in age-classes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, natural regeneration to aspen following harvest of some stands of balsam fir or other cover types, and the continued aging of forest stands. The chart shows an increase in the number of acres in age-classes beyond 70 years. It also shows the impending decrease in available harvest acres, as indicated by fewer acres in the 31-60 age-classes.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.56 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart3.4d4
Birch - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionLaurentian Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the paper birch cover type was nine percent (4,209 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is eight percent (3,724 acres). Low acreage in the younger age classes is due to difficulties in regenerating birch because of deer browsing, brush competition, old age of the cover type, and the low stocking of some stands because of mortality following the late 1980s to early 1990s drought, birch decline, and bronze birch borer damage. Poorly stocked birch stands and merchantable stands that have been harvested have often been converted to other species as plantations of white spruce and pine. Much of the birch cover type originated after forest fires in the early 1900s as can be seen in the large acreage of cover type greater than 60 years old. Other reasons for changes include updates to the CSA forest inventory.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.57 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d5 Northern Hardwoods - 1989 and 2002 Age Class Distribution
In 1989, the northern hardwoods and oak cover types were 0.02 percent (11 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 0.6 percent (290 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in these cover types, as indicated by the low acres in the 0-10 age class. Some partial cut harvesting has occurred which would not set the age-class for the stands back to 0-10. Reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.58 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d6
White Pine - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionLaurentian Uplands Subsection
1989 2002 In 1989, the white pine cover type was one percent (460 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 1.2 percent (610 acres). Even though the cover type percent in the subsection remained nearly the same, there was a 33 percent increase in the white pine cover type acres. The increase in the 1-10 age-class is due primarily to more planting and seeding of white pine in recent years, mostly on sites that were previously other cover types. An effort to more fully identify white pine cover type acres in the forest inventory has also increased the acreage. Little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type in the past 10 years, so most of the increase in young acres has been through conversion from other cover types such as balsam fir and paper birch. Other reasons for changes may include the acquisition of additional lands and the continued aging of the cover type.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.59 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d7
Norway Pine - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionLaurentian Uplands Subsection
In 1989, the Norway (red) pine cover type was three percent (1,361 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is four percent (2,116 acres). The primary reason for the large acreage increase in the 0-30 age-classes is due to planting Norway pine on sites that were previously other cover types over the past 40 years. Little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type in the past 10 years in the subsection. When Norway pine stands are clear-cut, the sites are usually planted back to Norway pine. Much of the harvest in the Norway pine cover type occurs through periodic thinning of stands, which would not have a significant effect on changes in cover type age classes. Other reasons for changes include acquisition of additional lands, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.60 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d8 Jack Pine - 1989 and 2002 Age Class Distribution
In 1989, the jack pine cover type was six percent (2,971 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is seven percent (3,510 acres). The increase in acres the 0-10 year age-class is a result of natural regeneration, planting, or seeding of jack pine after harvest. Other reasons for changes include updates to the forest inventory, acquisition of additional lands, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.61 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d9
Upland Black Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionLaurentian Uplands Subsection
1989 2002 In 1989, the upland black spruce cover type was four percent (1,986 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is still four percent (2,080 acres). Age-class changes are due to harvest and regeneration of upland black spruce, updates to the forest inventory, and the continued aging of the cover type.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.62 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d10
Balsam Fir - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionLaurentian Uplands Subsection
1989 2002 In 1989, the balsam fir cover type was seven percent (3,113 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is six percent (2,925 acres). The six percent decrease in cover type acres is primarily due to re-inventorying of stands where the balsam fir component died due to spruce budworm attack and the reclassification to another cover type, or salvage harvest of dead and dying balsam fir with later conversion to pine or spruce. Other reasons for changes between 1989 and 2002 include acquisition of additional lands, updates to forest inventory, harvesting, and the continued aging of forest stands. Balsam fir continues to be a common understory species or component in other cover types.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.63 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d11
White Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionLaurentian Uplands Subsection
1989 2002 In 1989, the white spruce cover type was five percent (2,505 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is five percent (2,691 acres). Very little clear-cut harvesting has occurred in this cover type during the past 10 years. The large acreage in the 0-30 age-classes is due to planting white spruce on sites that were previously other cover types. Other reasons for changes between 1989 and 2002 may include acquisition of additional lands, updates to forest inventory, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.64 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d12 Lowland Black Spruce - 1989 and 2002 Age Class Distribution
1989 2002 In 1989, the lowland black spruce cover type was 34 percent (15,919 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is 32 percent (15,687 acres). Even though there was a decrease of two percent of lowland black spruce in the total timberland acres in the subsection, the acres remain relatively the same. Reasons for changes in acres and age-classes include updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, regeneration, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.65 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d13
Tamarack - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionsLaurentian Uplands Subsection
1989 2002 In 1989, the tamarack cover type was two percent (926 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is four percent (1,729 acres). There was an 87 percent increase in tamarack acres. Reasons for changes in age-classes include updates to the forest inventory, harvesting, acquisition of additional lands, and the continued aging of forest stands. The small acreage in 2002 in the 0-10 age-class is primarily due to low demand and little harvest of tamarack stands during the past 10 years.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.66 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Chart 3.4d14
Cedar - 1989 and 2002 Age Class DistributionLaurentian Uplands Subsection
1989 2002 In 1989, the white cedar cover type was four percent (1,810 acres) of the state timberlands. In 2002, it is still four percent (1,907 acres). Very little timber harvesting has occurred in this cover type, for this reason and the difficulties in regenerating white cedar, there is very little cedar in the younger age classes. Reasons for changes in age-classes may include updates to the forest inventory, acquisition of additional lands, and the continued aging of forest stands.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.67 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
3.5 Old-Growth Forests The DNR=s old-growth management goal is to identify and protect the highest quality remaining natural old-growth forest communities on state-administered lands. Old- growth forest stands are defined by age, structural characteristics, and relative lack of human disturbance. These forests are essentially free from catastrophic disturbances, contain old trees (generally over 120 years old), large snags, and downed trees. Old growth forest represents the latter stages of succession in forested ecosystems. Remaining old growth forests are important for their scientific and educational values as well as their aesthetic and spiritual appeal. Old growth forests provide special habitats for native plants, important habitat features for wildlife, and examples of the maximum limits of individual tree and stand production. Because old growth ecosystems developed for a long time without large-scale disturbance, the study of plants, animals, soils, and ecosystem processes in old growth stands provides important insights into the natural function of forest ecosystems. Such insights can be crucial for future forest management and for maintenance of biological diversity. Old growth designations are based on the 1994 DNR Old Growth Guidelines. The designation of old growth stands in the three North Shore Subsections was completed in 2001. Some subsection boundaries have changed since the 1994 goals were set due to revisions in some subsection boundaries in 1999. Mapping and calculation of old-growth goals and acres within the revised subsection boundaries has not been completed yet. Therefore, the goals and designated acres provided in this assessment are based on the 1994 subsection boundaries. In some cases, the 1994 old-growth goals for certain forest community types were not met because the goal amount of stands meeting old-growth criteria simply did not exist in the subsection (e.g., in the North Shore Highlands Subsection, no old-growth red pine was found or designated, the 1994 goal projected 100 acres of red pine old-growth). In other cases, more high quality old-growth was found than originally expected, and the designated goal exceeded the projected target (e.g., in the North Shore Highlands Subsection, 3,019 acres of old-growth northern hardwoods were designated, this exceeded the 1994 goal of 960 acres). The 1994 acreage and number of sites goals, including the old-growth goals for a subsection, may be adjusted to reflect new information on the extent, quality, and distribution of potential old-growth candidates that are consistent with the criteria in the guidelines and guideline updates. If additional stands meeting old growth criteria are discovered on state lands during the SFRMP process or in following years, they may be evaluated and added to old-growth designated stands if they qualify. The following tables provide information on the 1994 goals and the designated acres in the subsections covered in this plan.
Forest Composition and Structure
3.68 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
Table 3.5 a Designated old-growth acres in the North Shore Highlands Subsection. From the candidate pool of 7,266 acres, 5,354 acres were designated as protected old-growth.
Forest type
1994 Old-growth Goal Acres
Old-growth acres designated
Black Ash 65 98 White Cedar 1400 1850 Lowland Hardwoods 80 5 Northern Hardwoods 960 3019 Oak 20 94 Red Pine 100 0 White Pine 135 45 White Spruce 190 242
Total 2950 5354
Table 3.5 b
Designated old-growth acres in the Toimi Uplands Subsection. From the candidate pool of 848 acres, 637 acres were designated as protected old-growth. Note: This subsection was renamed from the Laurentian Highlands to the Toimi Uplands Subsection in 1999.
Forest type
1994 Old-growth Goal Acres
Old-growth acres designated
Black Ash 40 0 White Cedar 85 9 Lowland Hardwoods 40 56 Northern Hardwoods 115 222 Oak 0 0 Red Pine 205 174 White Pine 185 176 White Spruce 30 0
Total 700 637
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.69 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
Table 3.5 c Designated old-growth acres in the Laurentian Uplands Subsection. From the candidate pool of 1,575 acres, 1,193 acres were designated as protected old-growth in the old boundaries of the Nashwauk Uplands Subsection (map to right). This subsection was divided into two subsections in 1999, the Laurentian Uplands Subsection (eastern half) and the Nashwauk Uplands Subsection (western half).
Forest type
1994 Old-growth Goal Acres
Old-growth acres designated
Black Ash 65 63 White Cedar 85 219 Lowland Hardwoods 80 83 Northern Hardwoods 115 211 Oak 0 0 Red Pine 205 254 White Pine 90 206 White Spruce 25 172
Total 665 1193 Source: Progress Report Summary: DNR’s Old-Growth Forests Guideline, DNR Science Policy Section, June 30, 2002 (Draft).
Forest Composition and Structure
3.70 North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands SFRMP Assessment (Draft)
3.6 Historical Forest Composition Compared to Today’s Forest – An Estimate Table 3.6
Relative Tree Species Abundance of Bearing Trees (BT) and Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) Trees (all units are percentages)
North Shore Highlands
Toimi Uplands
Laurentian Uplands
All 3 SubsectionsCombined
Species BT FIA BT FIA BT FIA BT FIA Ash 1.3 5.5 0.6 3.4 0.3 0.8 1.0 4.2 Elm 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.1 Aspen 5.6 20.7 5.0 27.8 6.1 17.9 5.6 21.2 Balm of Gilead 0.3 3.7 0.0 2.6 0.0 0.6 0.2 2.9 Paper Birch 18.7 20.1 21.2 14.1 14.4 14.6 18.1 18.1 Red Maple 0.1 2.1 0.1 2.3 0.0 0.9 0.1 1.9 Sugar Maple 2.2 9.3 0.5 2.0 0.0 0.0 1.4 6.4 Basswood 0.5 0.9 0.2 0.5 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.6 Yellow Birch 3.1 1.5 0.7 0.4 0.1 0.4 2.0 1.1 Red Oak 0.1 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.0 0.1 White Pine 10.1 1.1 10.3 1.4 4.1 1.8 8.7 1.3 Red Pine 0.6 1.0 0.8 1.1 0.9 5.4 0.7 1.9 Jack Pine 0.6 0.3 2.1 2.1 14.4 6.8 4.1 1.9 White Spruce 11.5 3.5 9.4 3.1 11.0 2.9 11.1 3.3 Balsam Fir 15.0 15.2 6.5 16.2 9.0 13.0 12.3 14.9 Black Spruce 5.9 4.5 17.2 13.2 18.1 24.8 10.5 9.9 Tamarack 11.6 1.3 17.9 2.6 12.5 3.2 12.7 1.8 White Cedar 9.6 8.6 4.7 7.1 3.6 6.8 7.4 8.0 Table Explanation This table shows the relative abundance of public land survey (PLS) bearing tree (BT) species marked as witness trees in the mid-1800s compared to 1990 Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) tree species. It provides an estimate by subsection of the abundance of certain kinds of tree species before the land was logged and settled compared to today’s forest. Methodology Relative abundance of BT trees is the percent by tree species identified as BTs in the original land survey records in the subsection. FIA data was modified to mimic the establishment of a survey corner by recording only one tree in each quadrant of the FIA sampling point similar to the selection of BT trees in the past. The relative abundance of FIA tree species is based on this estimate. Relative abundance data has been produced at subsection and the LTA (land type association) levels. This assessment includes only the subsection data. The LTA level data can provide land managers more detailed information on where in the larger subsection the composition changes are greater.
Forest Composition and Structure
North Shore Highlands/Toimi Uplands/Laurentian Uplands 3.71 SFMRP Assessment (Draft)
This can be used to assist in determining where it would be appropriate to attempt restoration of a species, if that is desired, within a subsection. Summary of Table 3.6 Based on this data at the subsection level, species showing a significant increase since the mid-1800s are ash, aspen, balm of Gilead, red maple, sugar maple, red pine, and balsam fir. Species showing a significant decline are yellow birch, white pine, jack pine, white spruce, and tamarack. As can be seen in the table, relative abundance of a species often varies between subsections and so does the amount of change between BT and FIA data. Note: Where relative abundance of a species is rare in the BT data, the data may not be as reliable.
