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Spatial and temporal patterns of use by moose of pre-commercially thinned, naturally-regenerating stands of balsam fir in central Newfoundland

Abstract:

A study of use and damage of pre-commercially thinned (PCT) forest stands containing balsam fir (Abies balsamea [L.] Mill.) by moose (Alces alces L.) in central Newfoundland was undertaken to determine how potentially conflicting resource management goals such as wood yield optimization and provision of stable moose populations could be achieved. Objectives were to measure spatial and temporal variability in damage to balsam fir due to moose habitat preferences for certain stand types and stem densities, and, secondly, to explore possibilities for manipulating PCT operations, within this context, to minimize damage. A stable moose population was achieved over 5 years of study, through the issue of licenses for a management sub-area designed to coincide with on-going PCT. Good road access ensured high success for hunters in this sub-area, and this management option eventually allowed for declines in moose density and in browsing of crop trees in PCT stands. Aerial census techniques were the preferred means of determining areas of high use or high potential use; pellet group counts were only weakly correlated to measures of browsing in vegetation sample plots. Identification of localized areas of use, or of moose habitat preferences that were likely primary to the selection of PCT stands, may allow PCT operations to be planned to avoid winter moose 'yards.' Consideration by management should be given to locating PCT in stands like those containing black spruce, which are less frequently occupied by moose. Management of hardwood also appears to be important for reducing potential moose damage to balsam fir stands when moose densities are high. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V.