The first sample of logs has been drawn from the long-term log decomposition study established during the last year of LTER-I (1985). The objective of this study is a detailed examination of the effects of time. log species, log size, and insect activity on patterns and rates of decomposition. Nearly 500 logs (60 cm in diameter and 6 m long) have been placed in 6 replicates in terrestrial environments and 180 smaller logs in Lookout Creek as part of a study of log decomposition processes in stream environments. Logs are to be removed and destructively analyzed for each of the first six years and at progressively greater time intervals, for a total estimated study duration of 200 years. Mark Harmon, leader of this component of the HJA LTER, has sawed up and is in the process of analyzing the first set of logs; additional information on insect, microbial, and fungal interactions in log colonization is being gathered using an NSF grant to Tim Schowalter.
A site has been selected for the LTER-II study on effects of organic matter levels on long-term site productivity. This study will involve several large scale (hectare) plot treatments (varying levels of logging residues, burn vs. unburned) with several small-scale treatments (e.g., total organic layer removal) superimposed. We invite inquiries from people who might like to participate or to utilize our experimental treatments.
The most noteworthy recent publication is the synthesis of information on the ecological role of coarse woody debris prepared by a large group of collaborators led by Mark Harmon (Ad. Ecolog. Res 15:133-302, 1986).
The major personnel change involves Frederick J. Swanson’s replacement of Jerry F. Franklin as Principal Investigator on the HJA LTER grant: Franklin will continue as a collaborating investigator, particularly on component 1 (terrestrial population studies). We currently have no professional or technical positions available.