J-11 R1 reforestation handbook 2409.17-2002-1.pdf

R1 SUPPLEMENT 2409.17-2002-1

EFFECTIVE DATE: 4/29/2002

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

2409.17_2.6-2.9

FSH 2409.17 – SILVICULTURAL PRACTICES HANDBOOK

CHAPTER 2 - REFORESTATION

2.6 - TREE PLANTING TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES

Tree planting tools and the planting techniques presented in this section are designed to assure successful plantations. It is assumed that the trees are being planted according to a silvicultural prescription, and that seed source, species, and successional requirements have been met.

2.61 - Planting Spot Selection - Microsites

Planting in favorable microsites protects seedlings from potentially harmful conditions and improves the probablility of survival. This is especially true in areas of high animal use, high insolation rates, and extreme winds. To take advantage of microsites, the spacing requirements may need to be adjusted. Silviculturists must evaluate local site conditions to assure the required microsite is tailored to the damaging agent.

1. Areas of High Animal Use. Cattle and big game damage is a major cause of plantation failure. Cattle generally trample the seedling and big game tend to feed on the plants.

Plant seedlings near logs, stumps, or rocks where they are protected, which will inhibit trampling and animal browsing.

2. High Insolation. High insolation results in heat and moisture stress to the seedling and can cause mortality on any sites. Drier habitat types and those on south- and west-facing slopes are most damaging. Direct heat to the tree crown affects the physiology of the tree causing water maintenance deficits. Heat at the soil surface can cause the soil temperatures to be lethal to the seedling stem at the ground line. Early season insolation can also cause the seedlings to break dormancy too soon and become subject to freeze damage. All of these types of damage intensify on exposed slopes over 30 percent.

Stationary shade such as stumps, rocks and larger logs provide the best site protection. On south and west slopes, plant on the north to east side of the stationary shade to protect the seedling from the afternoon sun. Where existing (stationary) shade is not present, other transportable shade types can be used in most cases. Use pieces of wood or branches that are larger than 3 inches in diameter, rocks, staked shingles, shade cards, and other material. Place the shade on the south and west side of the tree, to offer afternoon shade to the seedling (see exhibit 01).

Rocks should not touch the tree. Staked shade cards or shingles are costly to install but are an option where there is no natural shade. Although it is beneficial to shade the entire crown of the seedling, the most critical area needing shade is the ground line. This is where insolation rates raise soil temperatures above the lethal point.

Shade is generally not necessary on north slopes, and if used on east slopes, place it on the downhill side to protect seedlings from morning sun. Do not place transportable shade on the uphill side of the tree because it may roll down onto the planted tree.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

As a general rule, it is critical to require shade in these conditions:

a. Planting sites on Douglas fir habitat types and drier in Montana, grand fir habitat types and drier in northern Idaho, most habitat types throughout Regions 2, 3, 4.

b. Planting sites on south- and west-facing slopes

c. Planting sites on steep slopes, generally over 30 percent, especially on a dry aspect

d. Shade the tree crown on Engelmann spruce sites above 9,500 feet in the central and southern Rocky Mountains for protection from solarization problems.

e. Other site factors such as soil moisture-holding capacity, plant competition, and elevation compound insolation problems. Without proper site preparation to reduce competing vegetation, shade will not be sufficient to assure survival.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

2.61 - Exhibit 01

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

2409.17_2.6_2.9

3. Types of Shade Materials.

a. Natural Materials.

(1) Live trees or brush. Live shade can provide beneficial protection to seedlings.

Select planting spots that minimize moisture competition with the live shade plants.

Plant so that seedlings are protected from the afternoon sun.

It is generally beneficial to plant near the root crown of brush because water-absorbing roots of shrubs are not as dense as compared to farther away from the crown, and trees placed here are protected from browsing animals. When planting under a tree overstory, it is generally desirable to plant outside the dripline and within the shade pattern of afternoon sun.

Planting within brush fields is risky. In a year with good moisture, newly planted trees may survive, however, if the following year is droughty, mortality may result as brush has the competitive advantage for moisture. Rodent damage can be more common in live brush areas resulting in increased damage as well.

(2) Standing dead trees or brush. Shade from standing dead trees and brush provides seedlings protection, but it is difficult for planters to move in dense thickets of dead brush, and falling debris may later smother or damage young seedlings. There is also a hazard to tree planters when planting in areas of standing dead trees.

(3) Downed logs, stumps, large pieces of debris. Down, dead organic material is ideal for microsites. Retain sufficient debris during logging and site preparation to assure adequate shade materials. There is a risk of root pathogens spreading from stumps to regeneration. Where root pathogens like Armellaria spp. are a known problem, do not plant adjacent to stumps. However, on most forested sites there are more benefits (shade and trampling protection) from planting near stumps than there is a risk of mortality from disease.

(4) Small debris. Small debris can protect the tree at ground line where shade is critical and other stationary shade is not present. Insolation often heats surface soils to temperatures lethal to natural regeneration and planted seedlings. Mortality can be attributed to heat lesions at the ground line. To reduce this problem, place small pieces of material, at least 3 inches in diameter, so that they shade the ground and base of seedlings from afternoon sun. Do not place this material on the uphill side of trees.

(5) Rocks. Using rocks as shade may be better than no shade but may cause heat problems if not properly placed. Rocks should not contact the seedling or reflect the sun's rays onto the seedling.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

b. Artificial Material. Artificial shade should not be necessary on most sites where logging and site preparation have retained sufficient debris. Examples of artificial shade to use if natural shade does not exist include wood shakes, fiberboard stapled to wood, plastic shade tubes, black plastic net material with wire supports, and Styrofoam cups (coffee cups).

The costs of artificial shade varies by type and ease of intallation. Staked fiberboard and cedar shakes are usually cheaper to buy, but more costly to install, especially in rocky soils. The styrene cards and black mesh shade cloth systems are generally the best in rocky soils.

Color or size of the mesh opening does not affect effectiveness of material. Both black plastic net and styrene nets have wire prongs that are much easier to install and cause less root damage during installation than stakes or shakes.

Visit sites where artificial shade is used the spring after installation. Straighten or re-install material where animal and snow or other conditions have knocked the material out of place. This is necessary to ensure that animals and weather conditions have not caused the material to cover seedlings.

4 . Areas Prone to High Winds. Hot, desiccating winds or winter winds that blow snow and ice can cause damage to tree seedlings, especially container-grown stock. In areas known for hot winds, protect seedlings by planting them on the leeward side of large debris.

2.62 - Planting Spot Site Preparation

Prepare the planting spot before planting in order to prevent surface debris (dry litter and duff) from falling into the planting hole and to free the spot from competing vegetation. Prior to opening the hole, the planter must follow this procedure:

1. Clearing. Remove all surface debris down to moist mineral soil within an area that is a minimum of 6 inches in diameter. Remove duff, litter, rotten or charred wood, loose rock, ashes, snow, surface frost and similar debris. After the tree has been planted, this material may be pushed back over the cleared surface to serve as mulch.

2. Scalping. Cut and remove all vegetation to a minimum of 1½ inches below the root crown. Width of the scalp is dependant upon the amount and kind of competing vegetation.

Planting in sod-forming grasses generally requires scalping of 18 to 24 inches. Where larger scalps would be needed, herbicide and mechanical spot treatments should be considered.

3. Mulch. Add mulch after planting if needed for tree survival. Mulch reduces moisture loss and invasion of competing vegetation. It is most efficient to use surface debris and litter that was cleared from the planting spot. Newspapers, cardboard, plastics, and woven mats have also been used but with limited success although mulch mats specifically designed for this purpose

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed have been successful. They should be designed with the light spectrum and water needs of seedlings in mind. A mat 2 to 3 feet square is desirable. Mulching with mats is an expensive operation and is recommended only for special projects or as a last resort to meet specific small project needs.

2.63 - Planting Hole Design

Locate holes for tree planting in good soil that is deep enough to accommodate the fully extended seedling roots. They should not be placed in rotten logs, duff or mixes of organic matter, or soil that easily dries out. The hole must be large enough in all dimensions so that seedling roots may be inserted without becoming deformed or damaged. Only an occasional long lateral root can be laid in the bottom of the hole in a non-vertical position.

Utilize the "Open Hole Method" in all cases. Open a hole with the planting tool to create a hole of adequate size to allow for natural alignment of tree roots and compaction of soil. Place loosened soil back into the hole and progressively firm soil from the bottom of the hole toward the top. The seedling should be positioned in the center of the hole. Side hole planting is only acceptable in limited cases where sandy soils are present.

Do not plant trees in narrow slits opened in the ground (slit planting); the seedling roots will not develop properly in most soils.

The standard minimum-sized planting hole for bareroot stock is:

1. Two inches deeper than the root length of the tree being planted.

2. At least 3½ inches diameter for the full length of the hole. A minimum 4-inch diameter hole is required for auger planting to permit necessary tamping for firmness.

The minimum-size hole for container stock is:

1. One inch deeper than the plug length.

2. At least 3 inches in diameter at top of the hole and 1 inch at bottom.

2.64 - Hand Tools for Planting

There are four broad categories of hand-held planting tools used in the Rocky Mountains. Each of these tools has been used successfully although each has an advantage on specific sites under certain conditions. The optimum tool will vary with the type of ground and kind of stock to be planted, and experience of planting crews. Select the tool to be used recognizing that the primary objective is to open a planting hole sufficient in size, depth, and orientation to allow proper alignment of roots for good tree establishment.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

1. Planting Hoes or Mattocks. Planting hoes are also referred to as mattocks, R-6 hoe, Rindt tool, hoedag, R-1 tool or Corson tool. The hoedag and Corson tool differ from the others by not having a scalping blade.

Hoes have a planting blade and most also have a scalping blade. They are used to plant the tree and to prepare the planting spot (scalping and clearing). Planting hoes are used to plant all types of planting stock, but are limited by stock size. Bareroot stock with roots longer than 12 inches are too long to properly plant with a hoe, and should be planted with augers or shovels.

Hoe planting is physically demanding and requires skilled planters. The foreman and contract inspectors must enforce proper hole-opening techniques. Plantation failures will result from poorly planted trees, a direct result of improper contract administration.

a. Tool Description and Sizes. Planting hoes are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. Refer to reforestation supply catalogs for further information. Hoes used in bareroot planting are 4 inches wide and the planting blade must be 2 inches longer than the root length of the stock to be planted. Hoes for planting container seedlings are 3 inches wide and must also have a planting blade 2 inches longer than stock.

Regular hoe handle brackets are designed for a 90-degree relationship between the handle and planting blade. A newer design has the bracket with a 100-degree angle between the handle and blade that allows planter to get vertical holes easier especially on flat ground. Refer to reforestation supply catalogs for more information.

b. Hoe Planting Procedure. One person performs hole preparation and tree planting.

The correct procedure for planting is illustrated in exhibit 01. Open the planting hole by swinging the hoe, from one to five or more times, with blade the inserted vertically into soil. Utilize the "open hole method" described in section 2.63. Break the hole out on three sides. Hold the loose soil above the hole with the hoe, and suspend the tree. Fill in hole with original soil, firming soil around tree roots from bottom of hole progressively toward top. Exhibit 01, step 5 illustrates the progressive filling of hole and firming of soil. After planting, roots shall be in their natural position and the stem shall be erect and free to grow.

Do not fill the hole in such a way as to compact tree roots along side of the planting hole. Exhibit 01, lower diagrams, illustrates an example of the planting hole improperly opened and filled.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

2.64 - Exhibit 01

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

c. Advantages of Hoe Planting.

(1) Most cost efficient tool for a wide range of conditions and soils.

(2) Can be used with a mix of bareroot and containerized stock efficiently.

(3) Can be used as both the scalping and planting tool.

(4) Can result in more trees being planted because planter can move to a new planting spot within the spacing requirements when unplantable ground is encountered.

d. Disadvantages of Hoe Planting.

(1) Not suitable for planting in some rocky and heavy clay soils types if hole cannot be opened properly.

(2) Requires strict contract administration and individual planter control to avoid improper hole opening.

(3) Contract administration costs may be higher than with augers.

(4) Limited to stock with root lengths less than 12 inches. Larger stock requires augers or shovels.

2. Tree Planting Augers. Planting augers are powered by chain saw or other types of power heads. Carbide auger bits are recommended and are worth the extra initial cost. They last longer in all soils and are necessary in rocky soils.

a. Auger Planting Procedures. Auger planting consists of three operations: planting hole preparation (clearing, scalping), hole augering, and planting. A different person(s) performs each operation. Auger holes must be planted promptly before the soil dries. Loose soil deposited on surface by the auger dries quickly, and some drying takes place on the face of the hole. Trees must be planted with moist soil thus crews should be balanced so that tree planters work close behind auger operators.

Refer to exhibit 02 for diagrams of auger planting.

(1) Scalper. One to three scalpers preceed auger operators. They select the planting spot and prepare the planting hole by clearing and scalping. Hazel Hoe and McLeod Tool are good scalping tools. Hazel Hoes are heavy tools good for grubbing brush and heavy sod. McLeod Tools are good for light vegetation and litter. In areas of heavy site preparation where scalping is not necessary, the auger handler can select suitable planting spots.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

(2) Auger Operator.

(a) Select planting spot or proceed to scalped spots with the auger running slowly.

(b) Place point of auger on chosen spot at proper angle. The first attempt should be in center of scalp. Advance motor to full throttle.

(c) Let auger sink into ground of its own accord. Do not force it.

(d) Slow the motor slightly while removing auger from the hole to avoid scattering soil it brings up. Cut motor to about half speed and quickly withdraw auger when hole is 2 inches deeper than root system being planted. Paint or flagging can be used to mark the proper depth (generally 12 to 14 inches) on the auger. Making holes to shallow will cause roots to be planted in U-, L-, or J-shapes. Holes that are too deep increase the possibility of air pockets in bottom of hole.

(e) Drill one or more auxiliary holes in very rocky areas where the fill soil would contain many rock fragments. The auxiliary holes provide good mineral soil to place around the tree.

(f) Return throttle to slower speed and proceed to next spot.

(3) Tree Planters.

(a) Follow behind augers to freshly drilled holes. Soil should still be cool and moist and not drying out. The planter moves along the downhill side of holes.

(b) Reach into the hole with one hand and clear loose dirt, which has slipped from the auger; and hold it to one side of hole.

(c) Remove one seedling from planting bag, and place it in the hole so the root collar is 2 to 3 inches below soil surface.

(d) Raise seedling so the root collar is about level with the top of the hole and tree is centered in the hole.

(e) Fill the hole one-third to one-half full with soil. Firm the soil being careful not to damage lateral roots while holding the tree in the center of the hole. There should be no air pockets at the bottom of the hole and the root collar should be even with the ground surface.

(f) Continue to place damp soil, free of debris, in the hole and firm it until soil is even with the root collar.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

(g) Test tree for firmness by testing the ground around the tree. Soil should be firm.

If mulch is needed, place duff and litter around tree.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

2.64 - Exhibit 02

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

b. Auger Operating Precautions.

(1) Tools and parts should be available to repair machines in the field. Cutting surfaces of auger bits are hard faced. When this material wears off, the rest of the auger wears rapidly. Carbide bits are recommended because they have longer life.

Keep spare bits or hard-faced cutting parts available on site, especially when working in granitic and rocky soils. Spark plug and fuel are also necessary on site.

(2) Follow the manufacturer's lubrication instructions. Do not use petroleum products to oil the chain due to the potential for petroleum products to contaminate the planting hole and kill the tree. Vegetable oil is the recommended alternative lubricant.

(3) The auger tends to hang up on medium-sized rocks and roots. The auger operator should be alert to this danger and when the machine first contacts the obstacle, it should be withdrawn before a binding contact is made.

(4) Auger operators must have chaps or baseball type shin guards to protect their legs from injury.

c. Advantages of Auger Planting.

(1) Augers are more consistent in opening clean holes in a wide range of soils. There is optimum root arrangement in the hole with roots extending 10 to 12 inches vertically into soil. Problems associated with improper hole opening and roots pushed into one plane (slit planting) or compacted into shallow holes is easier to avoid with augers than with other tools.

(2) All tasks do not require physically strong people as do hand tool operations. This allows for an assignment of labor skills to the most appropriate job.

(3) Fewer contract administration problems related to hole opening.

(4) Easier planting of large trees with roots up to 12 inches long.

(5) More suitable for certain types of rocky and heavy clay soils.

d. Disadvantages of Auger Planting.

(1) Scalpers work ahead of the auger, so planting spots are selected in advance.

Unplantable spots are less detectable and may result in fewer trees planted per acre than with other tools.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

(2) Safety hazard on very steep ground (50 to 60 percent plus) or where footing is difficult.

(3) Not recommended in extremely rocky soils or soils with lots of thick tree roots, because auger bits can bind up.

(4) Contract costs can be high when compared to other methods.

(5) Mechanical breakdowns occur and there is need for fuel (gas and oil), and the high cost of equipment.

(6) Higher safety hazard.

(7) Requires more people to complete planting operations.

3. Shovels and Spades. Shovels modified for tree planting are available from reforestation equipment suppliers. They are not commonly used in the Rocky Mountains, but they are used in other parts of the United States. Shovels are used for large planting stock, such as transplant or large 3-0 bareroot stock when operating in easily worked soils with little rock.

Rules for shovel planting are similar to that for planting hoes. However, in some cases the soil is completely removed and replaced after inserting the tree. The technique may vary a little depending on the type of shovel employed. Shovels may be preferred especially when planting long-rooted stock. Roots must be properly aligned as described in the open hole method (see section 2.63).

4. Planting Bars. KBC planting bars are suitable for planting small trees with roots less than 10 inches long, on very rocky soils. The blade may need to be extended for planting large stock. This can be done by welding additional steel to the original blade. Wedge-shaped bars (OST) are not useful in rocky soils.

a. Bar Planting Procedure. Two operations are required, the scalper and the tree planter.

(1) Scalper. Preceed planters and prepare planting hole using Hazel hoes, McLeod tools, or other scalping tool.

(2) Tree planter

(a) Drive the bar full length into the ground at the proper angle near the center of the selected spot. Use foot on the step as needed. Repeated efforts may be required to adequately insert the bar into the ground.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

(b) Withdraw the bar 1 inch. Open the bottom of the hole by pulling the bar 4 to 6 inches toward the body while using the point where the bar enters the ground as a fulcrum.

(c) Force the bar into the ground so the tip acts as a fulcrum and push the bar 6 to 8 inches away from the body. This should open the top of a rectangular hole approximately 14 inches deep. Remove the bar from the hole without disturbing the soil faces.

(d) Carefully remove one seedling from the planting bag. Insert the tree into the hole until the root collar is 2 inches below the soil surface. Do not slide the roots into place on the blade of the planting tool. It will result in root deformities.

(e) Raise the tree so the root collar is level with soil surface. Make sure the roots are fully extended and near natural position, not curled or twisted.

(f) Thrust the bar into the soil 3 inches in front of the tree while holding the seedling at the proper depth near the center back of the. Push the bar forward, forcing dirt into the top of the hole, securing the seedling in place. Avoid crushing the roots between rocks or by the bar when closing the planting hole.

(g) Drive the bar full length into the soil as before at the same point used above. Do not permit the bar to angle into the planting hole.

(h) Withdraw the bar 1 inch and pull it 4 to 6 inches toward the body. This action closes the bottom of the hole.

(i) Force the bar into the ground so the tip acts as a fulcrum and push the bar 6 to 8 inches away from the body. This action should close the top of the hole, leaving an open crimp hole. Avoid crushing the roots between rocks or by the bar when closing the planting hole.

(j) Remove the bar and repeat steps g, h, and i (above) once or twice so the seedling is surrounded by firm soil.

(k) Place heel across last crimp hole and step firmly to plug it. Check tree for firmness and stem position and proceed to next spot.

b. Advantages of Bar Planting.

(1) Allows planting of very rocky soils, however, they have no advantage over augers or hoes on most other soils.

c. Disadvantages of Bar Planting.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

(1) Seedling will not be planted in center of hole, thus it is limited in use in most soil types.

(2) Pushing the bar back and forth creates X- or K-shaped holes that cannot be planted or closed properly.

(3) A V-shaped hole is the preferred shaped hole, however, extra effort is required to achieve good root positioning so roots are not pushed into a single plane.

2.65 - Planting Machines

Machine planting can be a useful technique where there are large expanses of relatively flat ground with easily worked soils and little debris.

Planting machines are pulled behind small tractors. A Coulter wheel, or steel blade, is mounted on the front of the planting machine. It cuts a narrow trench through the ground when the machine, in planting position, is pulled by the tractor. A planting shoe opens the trench to a width of 4 inches, providing a place for the tree to be inserted into the ground. A pair of packing wheels at the rear of the machine compacts the soil on each side of the tree as the tree passes between the wheels. The planting machine must be calibrated to open a trench 14 inches deep in order to plant the trees to the proper depth.

1. Machine Planting Procedure. The planting machine operation is a team effort between the tractor operator and the planter. A trailing inspector may also be required. The tractor operator must be constantly aware of what is occurring on the planting machine and must drive in a manner which will not cause injury to the planter or distract him from proper planting of the trees.

a. Tractor Operator.

(1) With the motor running, the planting machine mounted, and the planter in the seat ready to plant, start the tractor in motion along the row to be planted.

(2) Position the hydraulic controls to gently let the planting machine shoe move into the ground while moving forward. Putting the planting machine shoe in the ground while standing still fills the planting shoe with dirt, making it inoperative.

(3) Drive along the planting row. Avoid, or push away with the dozer blade, any poles and debris that could injure the planter or damage the equipment.

(4) At the end of the row, lift the planting machine from the ground and turn into the next row.

(5) Avoid backing while planting.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

b. Planter.

(1) When the tractor is in motion, select a single tree from the planting box. Hold the seedling with root collar between the thumb and forefinger of one hand.

(2) On the Rocky Mountain planter, insert the seedling in the forward part of the planting shoe. With the tree held vertically at the proper depth, move the tree to the rear of the planting shoe. Assure proper spacing is achieved.

On the Whitfield planter, place the seedling in the holders. The machine is calibrated for proper depth and spacing.

(3) Gently hold the tree erect, releasing it just before it passes between the packing wheels.

2. Advantages of Machine planting.

a. Ability to plant large areas and numerous trees in a short time period.

b. Requires a small crew.

3. Disadvantages of Machine planting.

a. Does not work well on sloping terrain, rocky or clay soils, or areas of heavy debris. Trees generally will not be planted properly.

b. Requires constant inspection to assure proper planting. It is common for the machine to lose its calibration resulting in poorly planted or improperly spaced trees.

c. Commonly results in sweeping roots causing growth problems that are not recognized until the tree are older.

d. Requires skilled operators.

e. Cannot select best microsites or plant by stationary shade. Moveable shade can be applied in a separate operation.

4. Maintenance and Safety. All machine planters require daily maintenance. Check and tighten loose bolts and grease movable parts. Keep spare parts on hand for repairs. Provide frequent maintenance to maintain productivity during good planting conditions. Review safety hazards daily with planting crews working on or around planting machinery. Use the following safety reminders:

a. Ensure that the tractor operator is qualified and understands the operation of both the tractor and the planter.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

b. Be sure the planter understands the operation of the planting machine.

c. Keep other workers a safe distance away from operating machinery.

d. Wear a hardhat at all times.

e. Planter must wear a seatbelt at all times.

f. Tractor operator and planter should wear ear protection.

g. Do not operate planting machines on slopes in excess of 35 to 40 percent.

h. A mirror should be mounted on the tractor or in the cab so the operator can observe the machine and planter while in motion. Provide a buzzer system so the planter can contact the tractor operator.

2.66 - Planting the Bareroot Tree

The planting hole must be properly opened for correct tree placement. The seedling must be inserted at the proper depth with proper root and stem alignment. After the tree is properly aligned, moist mineral soil must be firmed around the roots. See exhibit 01 for examples of properly and improperly planted trees.

1. Planting Depth. Plant the seedling at approximately the same ground line as it was in the nursery. The root collar or cotyledon scar is an indicator of the original ground line. No portion of the roots should be exposed, nor any needles or branches covered with soil.

Correct depth placement is especially critical on high insolation sites. The stem tissue at the base of the tree at the ground line is insulated (thickest bark) better than stem tissue above or root tissue below for protection from temperature extremes. High soil temperatures at ground line can be lethal to tender stem or root tissue.

2. Root Arrangement and Alterations. The seedling should be planted so the root system is in its natural configuration and free to grow. The roots should radiate downward in a conical arrangement. Proper arrangement is critical for maximum water uptake. Properly train inspectors to recognize improper root arrangement. Do not twist the roots; compact the root system along one plane, or plant with the roots in a U, J or L shape. An occasional lateral root may be J-, U-, or L-shaped, however, taproots must be in a natural position and never bent.

Do not allow planters to cut, strip, or otherwise alter roots prior to planting. Inspectors and foremen must have a firm visual impression of the root systems in order to inspect for violations.

Root sytems vary by species and tree lot, therefore, inspectors should visit the wrapping shed or tree bagging sites regularly. Observe the length and number of lateral roots as well as the length of the tap root. This is important as planters may strip or shorten only the lateral roots of the

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed tree. Tree root systems should normally have a bell shape with many of the laterals hanging down to a length equal with or sometimes longer than the tap root. The root system should not look like a “skinny carrot” with no laterals, nor should the laterals all be appreciably shorter than the tap root.

Root stripping is done when planters have trouble fitting roots properly into hole. To help avoid root stripping, the appropriate kind of stock should be ordered for the site. For example, do not order 12 inch long bareroot stock for a site with shallow soils. It may be more appropriate to use 6 inch container stock. When applicable, make sure the nursery has properly pruned the bareroot stock prior to shipment.

3. Stem Orientation. Orient the tree stem at an angle between 90 degrees with the horizontal plane to 90 degrees with the slope face. This will be achieved if the hole is opened properly.

4. Firmness. Firmly tamp the soil around the planted tree roots filling and firming the hole progressively from the bottom toward the top. Do not tamp with sticks or by "heeling in" alongside the seedlings after planting. Do not leave any large air pockets in the hole and do not leave debris in the hole after closure. Roots not in close contact with mineral soil will dry, resulting in tree mortality.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

2.66 - Exhibit 01

Planting the Bareroot Tree

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

2.67 – Planting the Container Plug

The container plugs are extracted from the container racks and packed (20 to 25 seedlings per package) in wrapped bundles or plastic baggies. Distribute plugs to planters in baggies, which are placed directly into the planting bag.

Container 6- to 9-inch plugs are generally easier to plant than longer rooted bareroot seedlings.

Containers are especially recommended for rocky sites where hoels cannot be opened properly for bareroot stock. Containers can be planted with almost any planting tool available. Hoes, bars, and augers have all been used successfully, however, dibbles are not recommended.

1. Planting Depth. Plant the plug deep enough so that about 1 inch of soil can be placed on top of plug, level with surrounding soil surface in order to seal the plug in the ground. This is necessary in areas prone to frost heaving. In all cases, the entire plug and root media must be below the ground surface.

2. Plug (root) Arrangement. While container trees are somewhat easier to plant than bareroot trees, the same care should be given to ensure containers are properly planted. Do not break, bend, flatten or distort the plug in any manner to avoid damage to the root system. After the planting hole has been properly opened, plant the container tree as described for bareroot seedlings in section 2.66.

3. Protection. Containerized seedlings are similar morphologically to natural and 1-0 seedlings in that they have very little heat protection (bark) on the stem. The high soil temperatures at ground level can easily kill the tree if not properly shaded

4. Dibbles - Caution. Dibbles should be used with caution. They are metal tools shaped in the form of a container that is pushed into the soil leaving a hole the shape of the container plug to be planted. Dibbles are suitable in light, fine textured soils, but in clay soils they have the effect of glazing or compacting the sides of the hole. This causes problems in root penetration or creates an air layer between plug and soil. When the air layer fills with water and freezes, frost heaving will occur.

2.68 - Artificial Seeding Projects

Direct seeding is not an operational reforestation tool in the Rocky Mountains, however, it may be an option on small projects or administrative studies. Success in the past was poor due to unavailability of bird and rodent repellants and poisons, and high cost of seed. In the past, large wildfire areas were seeded with seed mixes of trees and other vegetation, however, tree success was rare.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

2.7 - Reforestation Surveys and Monitoring

Reforestation surveys are required to monitor reforestation activities in artificial and natural regeneration treatments. They are used to determine stocking density, distribution, species composition, and health of regeneration as required by the NFMA. They are also used to monitor the effects of management treatments on lands with reforestation objectives. Utilize TSMRS in Region 1 and RMRIS in Regions 2,3, and 4the regional activity data base for tracking reforestation activities including surveys.

Maintain all reforestation records in the regional computerized activity data bases and in stand folders. Utilize Region 1 Timber Management Control Handbook (FSH 2409.21e R-1), Region 3 and 4 RMRIS User Guide and Dictionary, and Region 2 RMACT User Guide for data entry procedures discussed in this section. Reforestation reporting requirements discussed in this handbook are detailed in the above references.

2.71 - Quality Control and Reports

Monitoring reforestation treatments is very important. The effectiveness of treatments must be known and the results must be available for use by the Forest Service and other organizations.

Refer to section 2.75 for examples of reports.

The following persons have responsibility for appropriate monitoring and reporting:

1. Regional Forester/Forest Supervisors.

a. Review database reports and stand records to ensure accurate and timely reporting

b. Provide program quality control checks through site visits and technical support.

2. District Rangers.

a. Ensure all regeneration harvest stands since 1976 are appropriately coded in the regional activity data base.

b. Ensure all other nonstocked land in the timber base treated since 1976 is appropriately coded.

c. Ensure stands that are satisfactoriy stocked1976 are recorded properly in the database.

2.72 – Project Status Classification

Stands are considered to be in reforestation status from the time they are identified as having a reforestation need until they have been certified as satisfactorily stocked and not requiring

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed further reforestation treatment. The expected treatment and survey schedules are listed in exhibit

01. Classify stands in reforestation status as either progressing, certified, or as failing. Reassess failures promptly and schedule re-treatment if needed. Identify target stocking levels in the silviculture prescription utilizing guides and objectives from Forest Plans. For more details on the prescription process, refer to section 2.3 - Reforestation Prescription.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

2.72- Exhibit 01

Expected Reforestation Treatment and Survey Schedules

Scheme

Harvest that Initiates

Regeneration Status

Site Preparation Schedule

Timing of Planting or

Seeding

Survey Period Begins

Expected Length of Time to

Certification

Suitable Timber Land

1. Clearcut with natural regeneration Final At time of, or within 1 year of harvest

N/A The first or second fall after a cycle that includes a site preparation, fall seed crop

The fall survey 5th year after harvest

2. Clearcut with planting or direct seeding

Final At time of , or within 1 year after seed or regeneration cut

Immediately after or within 1 yr. of site prep

End of first growing season after planting or artificial seeding

The fall survey 5th year after harvest

3. Seed tree, shelterwood and selection system with natural regeneration

Seed or regeneration cut *

At time of , or within 1 year after seed or regeneration cut

N/A The first or second fall after a cycle that includes a site preparation and fall seed crop

5-7 years after survey period begins

4. Seed tree, shelterwood and selection system with artificial regeneration

Regeneration cut *

At time of , or within 1 year of regeneration

Immediately after or within 1 year of site prep

End of first growing season after planting or artificial seeding

3-5 years after survey period begins

5. Fire Fire Prior to the second growing season after the fire

First or second growing season after fire for natural regeneration, or first growing season after planting, or artificial seeding

5-7 years after survey period begins

Unsuitable Timber Land

6. Clearcut Final By Prescription Area must be classified as unsuitable if acceptable regeneration is not assured within 5 years.

7. Shelterwoods Final By Prescription Note: Area must be classified as unsuitable if acceptable regeneration is not assured within 5 years.

* NFMA 5 year requirement on suitable timber land for regeneration of seed tree and shelterwood harvests begins with the overstory removal cut, although regeneration status tracking begins with the seed cut or regeneration cut.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

1. Stands Progressing Toward Certification. Stands in this category have either been planted or have received treatments that resulted in natural regeneration. Regeneration is establishing but conditions have not yet been met to certify the stand as satisfactorily stocked.

a. Region 1. Stands in Progressing Status.

(1) Planted Stands. Generally, stands should not be in a progressing status for more than two seasons although stands may be in this status longer when there are factors that are limiting regeneration success. Certify stands as satisfactorily stocked and needing no further treatment as soon as possible to avoid repeated survey costs. The stand should be failed if more than 20 percent of the acreage needs full planting or more than 30 percent needs interplanting.

(2) Naturally Regenerated Stands (except lodgepole pine). Classify stands planned for natural regeneration as progressing satisfactorily following the first exam after initiating the regeneration treatment. Stands should not be classified as progressing for more than four successive years. Stands not examined two growing seasons after this cycle are automatically counted as failing stands in the Region's Reforestation Indices Report. The stand should be failed if more than 20 percent of the acreage needs full planting or more than 30 percent needs interplanting.

(3) Naturally Regenerated Lodgepole Pine Stands. Lodgepole pine germinating from serotinous cones may take up to three to four growing seasons to be noticeable.

When the second and third year exams reveal no germinates but site preparation and cone dispersion on the site is known to be adequate, progressing status can be waived until the third or fourth year until regeneration is apparantapparent. Progressing status cannot be waived following the fourth growing season. Classify the stand as failed and schedule for planting if no seedlings are present after the fourth-year growing season. Follow specific regional or local guidelines to make determinations for these stands.

b. Regions 2, 3, and 4. - Coding Stands in Progressing Status. Monitor and record stand conditions in the stand folder until determination for certification or failure is made. Use the appropriate regeneration activity code (planting or site preparation) to indicate that it is in regeneration status. The stand is considered to be progressing satisfactorily if certification or failure status is not entered in the activity screen.

2. Certified Stocked Stands. For the stand to be certified as satisfactorily stocked, it must meet the following criteria:

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

a. Establishment. Established regeneration, both planted and natural regeneration, must have survived at least three growing seasons and be healthy with good buds and leaders.

b. Quantity. The number of established seedlings on the stand meets stocking levels including tree numbers and distribution described in the silvicultural prescription.

c. Future Treatments. The silviculturist has determined that the stand requires no further regeneration treatment or regeneration exams. Seedlings are free to grow and there are no conditions that would affect stocking levels.

The stand can be certified as satisfactorily stocked and regeneration period complete when these criteria are met. Record this status in the stand folder and record reforestation status in the regional activity data base as certified.

Stands are most frequently certified following the third year exam or later after planting or site preparation. Continue with follow-up monitoring as needed after the stand is certified. Schedule the next anticipated treatment or survey in the database.

In some instances, the certified silviculturist may certify stands not meeting the originally prescribed stocking quantities provided the prescription is amended. Reasons for modifying the prescription may include reducing the desired tree numbers to reflect natural disturbance patterns, resource needs other than timber management, or that costs of additional treatments is not justified. They may also state in their analysis that early stocking is sufficient, and the rate of anticipated natural fill-in suring the next decade will add additional stocking to reach the desired stocking level. Clearly state the reasons for modification in the prescription.

3. Failing Stands. Failing stands are stands that do not meet reforestation requirements for certification without additional reforestation treatment such as site preparation, planting, or interplanting. Re-evaluate failed stands and schedule the necessary treatment promptly. If it is decided to do no additional treatment, document the decision in the stand folder. Stands not meeting the criteria for progressing or certification should be entered in the database as failing.

2.73 - Stocking Surveys

Conduct reforestation stocking surveys to determine the quality and quantity of regeneration.

Surveys are either done to assess unknown conditions in areas in order to determine treatment needs, or to assess the success of the treatments. Sometimes additional surveys are taken in order to facilitate the logistics of treatments. Silviculturists should develop field sampling designs to assure the methodology and the survey format is consistent with methods described in this section. Survey methods include walk-through, systematic plots, or staked trees.

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed

1. Types of Reforestation Surveys.

a. Pre-treatment Surveys. Pretreatment surveys are generally necessary after fires, blowdown, harvest, or insect and disease mortality and other similar events.

Information obtained from these surveys is used to diagnose and prescribe stand treatment needs on lands suspected to be in need of reforestation.

The best time to survey stands with questionanable stocking may be after a few frosts when summer vegetation has died back and turned brown. This allows for better distinction of green seedlings against tan deciduous vegetation. In western larch stands, it is best to complete surveys while yellow needles are still on the seedlings.

Pre-treatment surveys are optional, but if performed, should be entered into the regional activity data base with companion codes if a reforestation need is identified.

b. Pre-Planting Surveys. The primary purpose for pre-plant surveys is to prepare a planting contract or to prepare force account planting projects. Conduct these surveys to estimate the amount of planting stock needed, percent of plantable ground available for planting; scalping needs, shade or microsite availability, and other contract specifications.

Pre-plant surveys are not required, however, they provide essential information for the planting project. They may be entered into Timber Stand Management Record System (TSMRS) in R-1 although it is not required. They are not coded into the activity bases in R-2, 3, or 4.

A walk-through survey is generally sufficient. Intensity of the survey must be adequate to detect changing conditions both above and below the soil surface.

c. Post-treatment Stocking Surveys. Utilize post-treatment stocking surveys to monitor regeneration and determine status (certified, progressing, or failing) after seeding, planting, or natural regeneration to determine estimated density and distribution of seedlings.

Surveys start at the end of the first full growing season following planting, seeding, site preparation for natural regeneration, or coppice harvest, refer to 2.72 exhibit 01 for the estimated survey schedule. Assess regeneration after the first and third growing seasons at a minimum. In Region 1, Reforestation Indices reports will reflect the failure to meet the survey schedule requirements.

(1) Planted Units. Schedule the survey based on time of year trees when planting occurred. Survey units planted in spring and early summer at the end of the growing season of the first year of planting. Survey units planted in late summer and fall at

DURATION: Effective until superseded or removed the end of the growing season the following year. Third-year surveys are 2 years later.

(2) Natural Regeneration and Seeding. Survey stands by the end of the second growing season after a site preparation treatment followed by seed dispersal cycle.

Site preparation is considered accomplished by a harvest or by a separate site preparation treatment.

(3) Coppice Method. Survey after one full growing season following the regeneration initiating activity, which may be a harvest, prescribed burn, or other action.

Conduct a combination of walk-through exams and quick plot exams. Poorly stocked stands may be failed with one or two walk-through surveys. Well-stocked stands can be certified with only two walk-through surveys. Other stands may require as many as three or four walk-through surveys and two quick plot surveys before stocking is sufficient for certification. Schedule surveys based on past experience on similar sites. An assessment of regeneration success by habitat type can be useful in predicting the success of regeneration and surveys needs.

If the above information is unavailable, plan surveys as described below. Conduct additional surveys if the unit is not certified as satisfactorily stocked or prescribe activities to correct failing units

(a) Planted Unit. Two walk-through surveys; or one walk-through and one quick plot survey.

(b) Clear-cut and Natural Regeneration. Two walk-through surveys and a quick plot survey.

(c) Shelterwood and Natural Regeneration. Three walk-through surveys and one quick plot survey.

(d)…