Information about trees and plants

[Peter Smallidge]

We all can benefit from the networks we access.  I just gave a presentation at the Northeastern Silvopasture Conference in Watkins Glen about things that graziers should know about forestry.  One aspect of the presentation was the need to learn about the biology of tree and other plant species that occur in areas that might be used for silvopasture.  During the discussion, we talked about where to find information that describes the characteristics of these plants.  I knew of one resource and another participant shared a new site.  My thanks to Dave Jacke for this link.  These resources might be of interest.  The manual is an outstanding, historic, but relevant document that describes the life history of every tree that occurs naturally in North America.  The other site, the "fire effects information system" is geared towards how a plant responds to fire, but includes information on life history and ecological characteristics.  The manual is sorted by species, the FEIS is a searchable database.

 

US Forest Service - Silvics Manual

 

US Forest Service - Fire Effects Information System