Graduate Program

Environmental Biology

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Semester of Degree Completion

1982

Thesis Director

John E. Ebinger

Abstract

A comparative study was undertaken of the changes in woody vegetation of Burgner Acres during the past 18 years. This ten acre woodlot, located in east-central Illinois was surveyed using a method identical to that of a previous study. A literature review describing the composition of three general types of forests in the Grand Prairie Division of Illinois is included.

Twenty-five arborescent species are present on the study site with white ash (Fraxinus americana L.) maintaining its position as first in importance value (I.V. = relative frequency + relative density + relative dominance). Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis L.) has increased from fourth to second in importance, displacing elm (Ulmus sp. L.) to third. Shagbark hickory (Carya ovata [Mill.] K. Koch.) and black walnut (Juglans nigra L.) show a decrease in relative values.

A decrease in elm mortality and in the importance of red haw (Crataegus mollis [Torr. & Gray] Scheele.) has resulted in an increase in the relative importance of white oak (Quercus alba L.). Little recruitment of seedling and sapling white oak into larger diameter classes has occurred, indicating probable senescence of this species. Sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.) has become well established in a part of the woodlot and it is suggested that it will become a codominant due to its superior gap phase replacement potential.

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