Elk Hiding and Thermal Cover Guidelines in the Context of Lodgepole Pine Stand Density

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Abstract
We present a technique to evaluate how ungulate hiding and thermal cover guidelines affect density management of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) stands. Modification of a lodgepole pine density management diagram results in a graphical tool useful to forest managers interested in wildlife habitat evaluation. This technique can be used to determine the amounts of cover provided by silvicultural prescriptions and to evaluate cover status of existing stands. Stand structures that meet the guidelines were determined by simulation modeling and field sampling. Current hiding cover requirements were met when summed dbh was above about 5,000 in./ac or when summed crown diameters were greater than 630 ft/ac. The thermal cover requirement was determined to be the most restrictive element of the guidelines. West. J. Appl. For. 2:6-10, January 1987.

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