Mastication Research Study Design

 
The 45 acre study area is located between 1,250 and 1,500 feet in elevation and is characterized by a black oak (Quercus kelloggii) and knobcone pine (Pinus attenuata) overstory. The dense shrub understory is dominated by whiteleaf manzanita (Arctostaphylos viscida), which accounts for 65-90% of total shrub cover. The study area was stratified by vegetation characteristics, slope, and aspect, resulting in the selection of 10 different 1 to 2 acre treatment blocks. Each treatment block was divided into 14 approximately equal-sized units, with two units from each block representing one of the following seven different experimental treatments:

1. Masticated brush burned in the fall

2. Masticated brush burned in the spring

3. Unmanipulated brush burned in the fall

4. Unmanipulated brush burned in the spring

5. Masticated brush left on the ground as mulch

6. Brush cut by hand and removed from the site

7. Control (no mastication, burning, or thinning)
 
Map of study design and treatment locations
Map of the JFSP Brush Mastication Research study design and treatment locations (Click on map to enlarge).

Last updated: March 1, 2015

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 188
Whiskeytown, CA 96095

Phone:

530 242-3400

Contact Us