| This study represents an analysis of regeneration processes for eastern white pine (Pinus strobus L.). The objective is to develop an integrated approach to evaluate the influence of factors that, alone and in combination, determine regeneration outcomes.; This study is composed of three sections. The first chapter is a literature review of white pine regeneration dynamics. The purpose is to present a process for understanding the regeneration process of a single species and present a conceptual approach to integrated evaluation of influential variables. Six interrelated ecological factors (seed tree density, competition, disturbance, seedbed conditions, soils, and damage agents) were identified and their impact on the regeneration process is evaluated. A conceptual model of the integration approach and two examples of how this approach can be utilized in assessing regeneration operations are presented.; The second chapter is an analysis of the growth response of planted white pine seedlings to varying levels of competition. Overstory cover was manipulated by harvesting to establish a range of crown closures. Competition from understory vegetation was studied through annual or monthly removal of competing vegetation and investigating the response of the seedlings. Overstory density along with the competitive influence of understory woody vegetation were found to be important to both height and diameter growth. Damage from herbivory was the greatest impediment to survival of seedlings on this site. White pine blister rust and white pine adelgid seems to be more prevalent in open grown seedlings.; The third chapter describes the development and testing of a process based model for evaluating the interactions of influential factors on the recruitment, early growth, and survival of white pine germinants. The purpose is to generate a multifactoral response surface to test decision choices and their potential implications. Sensitivity and model application tests are conducted to evaluate conditions under which factors are important and the efficacy of management activities. Recruitment, early growth, and survival are sensitive to seed and safe site availability, stand composition and structure, and a range of mortality factors. |
