The MAB Program United States of America
Biosphere Reserve Information - General Description
Stanislaus-Tuolumne
General Description
This biosphere reserve and
experimental forest is situated on the western slopes of the central Sierra
Nevada Mountains (California) about 15 km north-west of the Yosemite National
Park. The area consists of two tracts on the South Fork of the Stanislaus River
and on the lower slopes of Dodge Ridge.
The site is significant for its long history of timber management research.
Dominating trees in the area are ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) and sugar pine
(P. lambertina). Early research included studies on reproduction, planting,
pruning, slash disposal and lumber recovery. More recent studies have involved
climate, insects, mistletoe, harvest cuttings, site preparation, herbicides and
roots. Trees in one tract have been inventoried by stand-conditions classes
within one hectare divisions, providing an excellent data base. Several
plantations, areas of natural young-growth, and large blocks of diverse species
and age classes which are virtually uncut, provide great potential for
silvicultural and ecological research in a complex forest system.
Last updated: 06/27/2005