Western Journal of Applied Forestry · 1986 · 26 citations · 0 references
EngineeringForest RestorationForestryAgricultural EconomicsSnag RequirementsWildlife BiologyWildlife EcologySilvicultureForest ConservationAvian EvolutionMore DbhConservation BiologyCavity-nesting BirdsEvolutionary BiologyNatural Resource ManagementCm DbhForest Resource ManagementWildlife ManagementDead TreesForest Stewardship
Abstract USDA Forest Service guidelines for retention of standing dead trees were analyzed in the eastern Sierra Nevada by surveying snags and recording the use of snags for nesting by birds. Surveys showed the density of large, hard snags to be only about 25% of that required by the guidelines. Birds tended to nest in snags 30 to 40 cm or more dbh. The majority of snags, however, were less than 40 cm dbh. Our results indicate that current guidelines for retention of large snags are appropriate. Because these guidelines are not being met, however, the practice of removing snags for fuelwood or other purposes is questioned. West. J. Appl. For. 1:38-40, April 1986