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EFFECT OF SUMMER STORM ON VALUE OF BIRCH STANDS IN HEMIBOREAL FORESTS
Abstract
Birch (Betula spp.) has a notable financial value and is less affected by most significant biotic factors than common coniferous tree species, however, still prone to wind and freezing rain damages. Main storms affect Northern Europe during winter (when trees are at leaf-less state), however it might change as the climate is warming and length of the vegetation period is increasing. Therefore information on wind damages in birch stands during this period is important. Aim of our study was to assess the damages caused by summer wind-storm in birch stands. Tree heights, height of the green crown base and diameter at breast height (DBH) were measured for wind-affected and unaffected trees of the same stands in area influenced by the storm of June 2021 in Northern part of Latvia. Sample plots (4-6, size 500 m2) were systematically placed in stands and the DBH range 6 to 30 cm covered. For broken trees the damage height was measured, for bent – the tilt angle. Tree parameters affecting probability and type of wind damages were assessed and compared to results of mechanical pulling tests. Most of the damaged trees (22% from total) had been tilted (bent or leaning at an angle <45?) or uprooted (7%); and only few trees snapped (2%). Financial influence of the storm to a large extent will be determined by the further development of the partly-affected trees.
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