Time Series Aerial Photography Can Help Land Owners and Managers Understand Local Aspen Dynamics

Abstract

Q uaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) habitats con- tribute to species diversity, provide forage and shade for wildlife and livestock, and are highly valued by humans for their productivity and beau-

ty. Aspen decline has been observed in the western United States over the past 50 years and has been mainly attributed to a decrease in re frequency, caused by effective re suppres- sion.1 Changing re regimes have allowed conifer species to expand into aspen stands. Another phenomenon, commonly referred to as “Sudden Aspen Decline” (SAD), has been ob- served within the past decade in the western mountains and in the Canadian aspen parklands.2 Mature aspen stems begin to die at rates beyond what is expected, which if aspen regen- eration is limited, can eventually lead to the loss of the aspen roots and stands. Excessive browsing by livestock and wildlife can also inhibit aspen regeneration. 

DOI: 10.2458/azu_rangelands_v34i5_strand