THE EFFECTS OF LAND-USE HISTORY ON BEECH BARK DISEASE SEVERITY

While an increase in American beech (Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.) sapling density has been noted throughout the northeast, few studies have examined the causes of the increase. To examine the role of beech bark disease in the increase of beech sapling density, I assessed adult beech trees for beech bark disease damage, and measured beech sapling density surrounding the adult. I also investigated the effects of land-use history on beech bark disease severity and beech sapling density. Adult beech trees with more severe damage from beech bark disease had more saplings around them. Former sugarbushes had less damage from beech bark disease and lower densities of beech saplings than areas that were formerly logged, and beech was mostly absent from former agricultural sites