Surface compaction estimates and soil sensitivity in Aspen stands of the Great Lakes States

Aspen forests in the Great Lakes States support much of the regional timber industry. Management-induced soil compaction is a concern because it affects forest health and productivity and soil erosion. Soil compaction increases bulk density and soil strength and can also decrease air and water movement into and through the soil profile. Currently, most inventories, and specifically the Forest Inventory and Analysis program, use qualitative estimates of soil compaction. This study compared qualitative estimates with quantitative measurements on aspen clearcuts in five national forests in the Great Lakes States.