Guidelines for Thinning Ponderosa Pine for Improved Forest Health and Fire Prevention

Abstract

Preventing catastrophic stand replacing events are best accomplished through thinning. Lower tree densities result in greater tree growth. Stands with lower tree densities have greater plant diversity. Determining stand conditions will provide a baseline for formulating a plan to improve stand conditions. Thinning around individual trees can improve individual tree health reducing the likelihood of damage from bark beetles, fire or drought.