Abstract
This paper presents a model of the recent dynamics of a boreal fir population (Abiesbalsamea (L.) Mill.) exposed to a major disturbance, taking a blowdown as an example. The blowdown was precisely dated with the use of reaction wood. Age structures and growth curves were used to reveal the population history and to follow the evolution of the regeneration. The blowdown occurred in 1947. The majority of the firs of the actual population were established before the event. Their age structure conforms to the normal distribution. The original population, which was blown down, was replaced by a similar population in terms of the species' relative proportion. The blowdown is associated with a spruce budworm (Choristoneurafumiferana (Clem.)) outbreak which began around 1944. The population growth curve shows a distinct growth release following these two disturbances. The regeneration mechanisms of this site could serve as a model applicable to more complex but just as devastating disturbances, such as spruce budworm outbreaks.

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